Nanoparticle Applications in Antimicrobial Dentistry
Summary
Antimicrobial dentistry has been transformed by the introduction of nanoparticles – ultra-small particles (1–100 nm) that combine large surface-to-volume ratios with unique chemical and physical properties. Metallic nanoparticles (for example silver, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) and non-metallic variants (such as graphene, chitosan or silica) have been incorporated into restorative composites, orthodontic adhesives, endodontic sealers and implant coatings to inhibit bacterial colonisation and biofilm formation. These materials act via multiple mechanisms, including release of antimicrobial ions, generation of reactive oxygen species and biomechanical disruption of microbial membranes by nanotopographical features. Hybrid nanocomposites further integrate different chemistries to balance antimicrobial potency, mechanical strength and biocompatibility. Such strategies target key oral conditions: caries prevention, periodontitis therapy, disinfection of root-canal systems and longevity of prostheses. While offering promise against antibiotic-resistant strains and minimising systemic side-effects, nanoparticle-based approaches also raise questions over toxicity, release kinetics and long-term regulation. Ongoing efforts seek to optimise dose, ensure safe clinical translation and align with global “One Health” agendas to curb microbial resistance and improve oral health at population scale.
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Nanoparticle Applications in Antimicrobial Dentistry publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in nanoparticle applications in antimicrobial dentistry across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Nanoparticle: A particle sized 1–100 nm, possessing high surface area and novel surface chemistry for targeted antimicrobial activity.
Biofilm: A complex, surface-attached community of microorganisms encased in an extracellular matrix that confers resistance to antimicrobials.
Reactive oxygen species: Highly reactive molecules (for example superoxide or hydroxyl radicals) that can damage microbial cell components.
Biocompatibility: The capacity of a material to perform with an appropriate host response in a specific application without adverse effects.
Nanotopography: The nanoscale surface features engineered to disrupt microbial adhesion and mechanically damage cells.
References
- Review of Antimicrobial Nanocoatings in Medicine and Dentistry: Mechanisms of Action, Biocompatibility Performance, Safety, and Benefits Compared to Antibiotics. ACS Nano (2023).
- Recent advances in metal nanoparticles to treat periodontitis. Journal of Nanobiotechnology (2023).
- Nanoparticle technology and its implications in endodontics: a review. Biomaterials Research (2020).
- Application of Antimicrobial Nanoparticles in Dentistry. Molecules (2019).
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