Search Results (133)

To improve implant osseointegration while preventing infection, we developed a strontium (Sr)-doped Ti₃C₂T_x MXene coating on titanium, aiming to synergistically enhance bone integration and antibacterial performance. MXene is a family of two-dimensional transition-metal carbides/nitrides whose abundant surface terminations endow high hydrophilicity and bioactivity. The coating was fabricated via anodic electrophoretic deposition (40 V, 2 min) of Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets, followed by SrCl₂ immersion to incorporate Sr²⁺. The coating morphology, phase composition, chemistry, hydrophilicity, mechanical stability, and Sr²⁺ release were characterized. In vitro bioactivity was assessed with rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs)—with respect to viability, proliferation, migration, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, and Alizarin Red S mineralization—while the antibacterial efficacy was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) via live/dead staining, colony-forming-unit enumeration, and AlamarBlue assays. The Sr-doped MXene coating formed a uniform lamellar structure, lowered the water-contact angle to ~69°, and sustained Sr²⁺ release (0.36–1.37 ppm). Compared to undoped MXene, MXene/Sr enhanced BMSC proliferation on day 5, migration by 51%, ALP activity and mineralization by 47%, and reduced S. aureus viability by 49% within 24 h. Greater BMSCs activity accelerates early bone integration, whereas rapid bacterial suppression mitigates peri-implant infection—two critical requirements for implant success. Sr-doped Ti₃C₂T_x MXene thus offers a simple, dual-function surface-engineering strategy for dental and orthopedic implants. Full article

This study develops a dual-mode antibacterial orthodontic adhesive by integrating quaternary ammonium salt-modified large-pore mesoporous silica nanoparticles (QLMSN@CHX). The material integrates two antibacterial mechanisms: (1) contact killing via covalently anchored quaternary ammonium salts (QACs) and (2) sustained release of chlorhexidine (CHX) from radially aligned macropores. The experimental results demonstrated that QLMSN@CHX (5 wt%) achieved rapid biofilm eradication (near-complete biofilm eradication at 24 h) and prolonged antibacterial activity, while maintaining shear bond strength comparable to commercial adhesives (6.62 ± 0.09 MPa after 30-day aging). The large-pore structure enabled controlled CHX release without burst effects, and covalent grafting ensured negligible QAC leaching over 30 days. The composite demonstrated good biocompatibility with human dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells at clinically relevant concentrations. This dual-mode design provides a clinically viable strategy to combat bacterial contamination in orthodontic treatments, with potential applications in other oral infections. Future studies will focus on validating efficacy in complex in vivo biofilm models. Full article

Novel three-dimensional porous composites of alginate–pectin (A/P) with zinc- or manganese-substituted hydroxyapatites (A/P-ZnHA and A/P-MnHA) were synthesized via lyophilization and calcium cross-linking. Powder X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy analyses confirmed single-phase apatite formation (crystallite sizes < 1 µm), with ZnHA exhibiting lattice contraction (*c*-axis: 6.881 Å vs. 6.893 Å for HA). Mechanical testing revealed tunable properties: pristine A/P sponges exhibited an elastic modulus of 4.7 MPa and a tensile strength of 0.10 MPa, reduced by 30–70% by HA incorporation due to increased porosity (pore sizes: 112 ± 18 µm in the case of MnHA vs. 148 ± 23 µm-ZnHA). Swelling capacity increased 2.3–2.8-fold (125–155% vs. 55% for A/P), governed by polysaccharide interactions. Scanning electron microscopy investigation showed microstructural evolution from layered A/P (<100 µm) to tridimensional architectures with embedded mineral particles. The A/P-MnHA composites demonstrated minimal cytotoxicity for the NCTC cells and good viability of dental pulp stem cells, while A/P-ZnHA caused ≈20% metabolic suppression, attributed to hydrolysis-induced acidification. Antibacterial assays highlighted A/P-MnHA′s broad-spectrum efficacy against Gram-positive (Bacillus atrophaeus) and Gram-negative (Pseudomonas protegens) strains, whereas A/P-ZnHA targeted only the Gram-positive strain. The developed composite sponges combine cytocompatibility and antimicrobial activity, potentially advancing osteoplastic materials for bone regeneration and infection control in orthopedic/dental applications. Full article

Both synthetic and natural rubber-like elastomers are widely employed in industrial applications (such as tires, seals, protective gloves, and damping absorbers) as well as in the food and animal husbandry industries. These materials should be regularly checked for contamination and the associated infectious risk since they frequently come into contact with food, animals, and people. Additionally, they could act as vehicle of microbes and, as a result, diseases. This pilot study investigates the antibacterial efficacy of novel elastomer formulations against Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Enteritidis and Legionella pneumophila, with possible applications in drinking water distribution systems (DWDSs). This study aims to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of two rubber and five silicone patented elastomers with antibacterial additives. Two microbiological concentrations (10³ and 10⁴ CFU/mL) were used to compare the efficacy of the elastomers. The results showed a significant decrease in bacterial load in several silicone formulations, with two of them showing the strongest bactericidal efficacy against L. pneumophila (0% and 3% survival rates for VMQ105 and VMQ500L formulations, respectively), despite the wide variations in S. Enteritidis inhibition. One rubber elastomer performed better than the other in terms of reducing bacterial survival for both pathogens (NBRCA) while NBROM showed a 0% survival rate only for L. pneumophila. The findings suggest that certain elastomer compositions might lessen the potential infectious risks in water systems or contaminated matrices. Future research may investigate in situ applications, particularly in hospitals or dental offices where these pathogens pose major health risks. Full article

The formation of microbial colonies and biofilms are common on dental restorations. This can lead to secondary caries. Another common complication is the post-operative inflammation noted in patients. The traditionally used dental composites are designed without the inherent components having antimicrobial and inflammatory properties. This has become a major challenge in current restorative dentistry applications. In order to address these challenges, a possible approach is to incorporate eugenol nanoparticles (NPs) into dental composites. This approach can offer dual therapeutic benefits since eugenol possess both antimicrobial and inflammatory properties. In fact, compared to synthetic antimicrobial agents, eugenol exhibits antibacterial activity not only against Streptococcus mutans but also against a range of oral pathogens. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects that can promote healing by reducing post-operative sensitivity. In spite of the above benefits, eugenol cannot be incorporated directly into dental materials. This is because eugenol is highly volatile and has poor water solubility. The encapsulation of eugenol in suitable nano-materials can overcome these limitations. In addition, it can enable the controlled and sustained release of desirable agents for long-term therapeutic action. In this review, we explore the mechanisms, advantages and potential clinical applications of dental composites containing NP integrated with eugenol. We highlight the advantages of having antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory functions in a single restorative material. At the same time, we acknowledge the need for more in-depth research to optimize NP formulations with eugenol that does not compromise the mechanical properties of dental materials. Based on a thorough literature review, we believe that this approach has much potential in restorative dentistry procedures that will aid therapeutic outcomes in the future. Full article

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as a promising antimicrobial agent in dentistry due to their distinctive physicochemical characteristics and broad-spectrum biocidal activity. For example, silver nanoparticles can be incorporated into oral hygiene products in preventive dentistry, composite resins in restorative treatment, irrigation solutions in endodontic treatment, membranes for guided tissue regeneration in periodontal treatment, acrylic resins and porcelains in prosthodontic treatment, coatings in dental implant treatment, and brackets and wires in orthodontic treatment. This paper focuses on summarizing the current knowledge on the antimicrobial use of silver nanoparticles in dentistry, highlighting their antimicrobial mechanism and potential applications in clinical treatment. The literature indicates that silver nanoparticles are a promising antimicrobial agent in dentistry. However, there are still many issues including fundamental antibacterial mechanisms that need to be completely elucidated before clinical applications. Full article

A novel resin-based bulk-fill restorative material (ST; Stela SDI, Bayswater, Victoria, Australia) has been recently introduced as a self-curing alternative to traditional light-cured composites. Promoted for its unlimited depth of cure, enhanced aesthetics, and unique primer composition, it aims to address challenges associated with amalgam and light-curing composites. Thus, the aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the performance of the new self-curing polymer-based restorative material, ST, compared to two conventional light-cured composites for direct restoration. The study evaluated compressive strength with and without aging, antibacterial activity, mineral deposition in contact with Phosphate-Buffered Saline (PBS) and artificial saliva, porosity, and wettability of ST (Tetric EvoCeram (TE; Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein) and Clearfil Majesty ES-2 (CM; Kuraray Noritake Dental, Tokyo, Japan)). The data was statistically analyzed (α = 0.05) through one-way and two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). ST demonstrated significantly higher compressive strength than TE and CM at baseline and after aging (p < 0.001), while aging significantly reduced compressive strength across all materials (p < 0.001). Fracture mode analysis revealed brittle fractures for TE and CM, whereas ST fractured in multiple smaller fragments. CM showed the highest void volume and diameter, significantly differing from ST and TE (p < 0.001). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed cubical-like crystalline formations on ST’s surface after 28 days of immersion in PBS and saliva, indicating some level of bioactivity, whereas no changes were observed for TE and CM. Wettability testing showed ST had the lowest contact angle (12.24° ± 2.1°) compared to TE (62.78° ± 4.68°) and CM (64.64° ± 3.72°) (p < 0.001). Antibacterial activity testing displayed a significant decrease in bacterial growth for CM compared to ST (p = 0.001) and TE (p = 0.002); however, ST and TE showed no significant differences (p = 0.950). To conclude, ST Automix demonstrated promising results across several key parameters, making it a potential candidate for long-lasting restorative applications. Future studies should explore its long-term clinical performance and investigate formulations that enhance its antibacterial properties. Moreover, the bond strength of these materials to dentin and the cytotoxicity should be evaluated. Full article

Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of incorporating chitosan into dental resin composites on their mechanical, antibacterial, and physicochemical properties. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted in March 2025 using the following keywords: resin, composite, and chitosan. The inclusion criteria comprised in vitro studies in dentistry evaluating chitosan as a composite additive with full-text availability in English. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by multiple reviewers using standardized tools, and study quality was assessed based on predefined criteria. Results: Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. Chitosan concentrations in the composites ranged from 0.25 wt% to 20 wt%. Antibacterial activity was confirmed in six studies, especially against S. mutans, S. sanguinis, and L. acidophilus. Mechanical properties such as fracture toughness, hardness, and compressive strength were generally improved at lower concentrations of chitosan. However, increased chitosan levels were associated with decreased flexural strength and increased microleakage. Shear bond strength (SBS) was unaffected by chitosan in low concentrations (up to 0.25%), while higher concentrations reduced SBS. Fluoride release capacity was assessed in one study, with no significant differences observed. Conclusion: Chitosan-modified dental resin composites exhibit promising antibacterial and mechanical enhancements at low concentrations. However, higher chitosan levels may compromise certain mechanical and adhesive properties. These findings suggest a need for standardized methodologies and further research on long-term clinical implications and fluoride release. Full article

The development of advanced biomaterials for dental applications has gained significant attention due to the need for enhanced mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and antibacterial activity. Hydroxyapatite (HA) is widely used in bone tissue engineering owing to its chemical similarities to bone. However, biofilm formation and bacterial infection on HA may lead to implant failure and revision surgery. Tannic acid, a polyphenolic compound with strong antibacterial and antioxidant properties, was incorporated into the composite to provide antimicrobial effects, that may address the challenge of biofilm formation on dental surfaces. In this study, the biomedical potential of tannic acid (TA)-loaded hydroxyapatite-zirconia composites were analyzed. The crystallization characteristics, functional groups, and morphology were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis. The biocompatibility of composite samples was analyzed through in vitro cell culture studies. The combined effect of TA and zirconia showed antibacterial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) after 24 h of sample–bacterial interactions. The results demonstrate that this tannic acid-loaded hydroxyapatite-zirconia composite holds significant promise for improving the performance of dental materials and preventing infections in oral healthcare applications. Full article

Diseases such are caries affect approximately 25% of the worldwide population. Such a state requires novel, antibacterial materials. This research aimed to synthesize and characterize the structures of two urethane-dimethacrylate monomers showing possible antibacterial activity for dental composite restorative materials (DCRMs). The monomers were based on isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) and dicyclohexylmethane 4,4′-diisocyanate (CHMDI). The structures of the monomers and their key elements were confirmed with the application of spectroscopy methods. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (¹H and ¹³C NMR) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were applied. The monomers were synthesized and their structures were confirmed with the abovementioned techniques. Full article

Prosthetics, a rapidly advancing field in dentistry, aims to improve patient comfort and aesthetics by addressing the challenge of replacing missing teeth. A critical obstacle in dental implantation is the condition of the jawbone, which often necessitates reconstruction prior to implant placement. Guided bone regeneration (GBR) and guided tissue regeneration (GTR) techniques utilize membranes that act as scaffolds for bone and tissue growth while serving as barriers against rapidly proliferating cells and pathogens. Commonly used membranes, such as poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) and collagen, have significant limitations—PTFE is non-bioresorbable and requires secondary removal, while collagen lacks adequate mechanical strength and exhibits unpredictable degradation rates. To overcome these challenges, nanofiber membranes produced via electrospinning using polylactic acid (PLA) were developed. The novel composites were functionalized with bioactive additives, including periclase (MgO) nanoparticles and polydopamine (PDA), to enhance osteoblast adhesion, antibacterial properties, and tissue regeneration. This study comprehensively evaluated the biological, mechanical, and physicochemical properties of the prepared nanofibrous scaffolds. Experimental results revealed controlled degradation rates and improved hydrophilicity due to surface modifications with PDA and MgO. Moreover, the nanofibers exhibited enhanced swelling behavior, which promoted nutrient exchange while maintaining structural integrity over prolonged periods. The incorporation of bioactive additives contributed to superior osteoblast proliferation, antibacterial activity, and growth factor immobilization, supporting bone tissue regeneration. These findings suggest that the developed nanofibrous composites are a promising candidate for GBR and GTR applications, offering a balanced combination of biological activity, mechanical performance, and degradation behavior tailored for clinical use. Full article

The development of dental implants has significantly advanced due to technological innovations aimed at improving their performance and patient outcomes. This work presents key factors influencing the success of dental implants, including osseointegration, which is the direct connection between living bone and the implant surface, and the various surface modifications that enhance this process. This review highlights the importance of surface roughness, chemical composition, and the use of bioactive coatings to promote better integration with surrounding bone tissue. Innovations such as nanotechnology, 3D printing, and smart surfaces are paving the way for more effective and personalized dental implant solutions. This review underscores the importance of ongoing research and development to improve success rates, enhance patient comfort, and reduce healing times. It focuses on creating cost-effective, reliable methods that integrate multiple functions, such as combining antibacterial and osteoconductive properties to improve overall implant performance. Full article

Infections continue to pose significant challenges in dentistry, necessitating the development of innovative solutions that can effectively address these issues. This study focuses on creating coatings made from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) enriched with zinc oxide–silver composite nanoparticles, layered to Ti6Al4V–titanium alloy substrates. The application of these materials aims to create a solution for the abutments utilized in complete dental implant systems, representing the area most susceptible to bacterial infections. The nanoparticles were synthesized using a hydrothermal method, optimized through specific temperature and pressure parameters to achieve effective morphologies and sizes that enhance antibacterial efficacy. The layers were applied to the titanium substrate using the spin coating technique, chosen for its advantages and compatibility with the materials involved. Comprehensive analyses were conducted on the antimicrobial powders, including X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Furthermore, the PMMA-based coatings incorporating antimicrobial nanoparticles were evaluated to ensure uniformity and homogeneity across the titanium alloy surface by IR mapping and SBF immersion–SEM analysis. The antimicrobial activity of the samples was demonstrated with impressive results against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans, as assessed through biofilm modulation studies. The biocompatibility of the samples was validated through in vitro cell-based assays, which demonstrated excellent compatibility between PMMA-based coatings and human preosteoblasts, confirming their potential suitability for future use in dental implants. Full article

Background/Objectives: Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are commonly used by former smokers as an alternative product to conventional cigarettes and also by young adults and adolescents to deliver nicotine. E-cigarettes are thought to be a less harmful and more socially acceptable alternative to tobacco smoking; however, their long-term effects on health, including oral health, are currently unknown. Methods: A literature search for relevant papers indexed in the literature from 2016 to 2023 was conducted using the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. In our paper, we included clinical trials and both in vivo and in vitro research concerning the impact of e-cigarettes on oral health. Results: E-cigarettes impact the oral cavity, which is directly exposed to inhaled chemicals present in e-cigarette aerosols. The use of e-cigarettes has been linked to teeth discoloration and dental caries, promoting the development of periodontal diseases and causing oral mucosa lesions, including oral cancer. E-cigarette aerosols might also negatively affect the oral microbiome by suppressing the growth of commensal bacteria and increasing the population of bacteria responsible for developing numerous oral disorders. E-cigarettes also impact saliva composition and its properties, including reducing saliva’s antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which may subsequently lead to the promotion of oral diseases. Conclusions: The outcomes suggest that e-cigarette usage may cause the development of oral diseases, however further longitudinal studies of a larger and homogenous group of e-cigarette users are required. Full article

In many developing countries, human health problems are solved using local plants. Knowledge of their chemical composition and biological activities can contribute to the creation of natural-based products usefully employed in human health. In this work, we analysed Paederia grandidieri leaves extracted with diverse eco-compatible procedures and subjected to chemical, microbiological, and cellular compatibility assays. Fresh leaves of P. grandidieri were harvested in southern Madagascar, where most of the population relies on P. grandidieri for daily dental care. Leaves were dried and powdered. Distilled water and ethanol at 25 °C and 60 °C from 6 to 24 h were used for extraction. Polyphenol composition, antioxidant activity, and antibacterial, prebiotic, and cytotoxic properties of the extracts were analysed. The aqueous extracts contained higher levels of flavan-3-ols and flavanones, while the hydro-alcoholic extracts were richer in flavonols and flavones. The aqueous extracts showed the highest total phenolic and total flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activity. The hydro-alcoholic extracts showed antibacterial effects against Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, two key foodborne and environmental pathogens, while the aqueous extracts showed prebiotic effects against Streptococcus salivarius. The cytotoxic effects of P. grandidieri leaf extracts were evaluated using the MTT assay on mouse fibroblasts (L929 cell line). The most cytotoxic extract was the aqueous extract at 25 °C. Given that P. grandidieri is routinely employed by the southern Madagascar population with healthy and strong teeth with fewer cases of tooth decay with respect to other regions, and in light of the significant chemical and microbiological properties, we maintain that P. grandidieri can be a suitable candidate for the production of pro-health products for the oral cavity. More in-depth studies will ensure a broader picture of the impact of extracts, especially for possible oral use. Full article