New Insights in Dental Biomaterials

A special issue of Biomedicines (ISSN 2227-9059). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomedical Engineering and Materials".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (29 February 2024) | Viewed by 11238

Special Issue Editors


E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
Interests: orthodontics; pediatric dentistry; oral medicine; oropharyngeal neoplasms; hygiene; prevention
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
Interests: oral surgery; orthodontics; microbiota; oral health; COVID-19; prevention; diagnosis; endodontics; parodontology; implantology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

It is our utmost pleasure to invite you to submit manuscripts to one of the most current topics in dentistry: “New Insights in Dental Biomaterials”.

The history of the use of biomaterials in dentistry is constantly evolving, due to the invention and improved understanding of new materials.

These advances have been due to the continuous quest for new materials and new technologies used in the design and fabrication of new and novel materials, and, in particular, the understanding of new materials with innovative clinical applications.

A modern approach often requires interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary expertise, the use of digital technologies for treatment planning to enhance the predictability of the execution, and a comprehensive team approach. New technologies can help in reducing the invasiveness of the clinical procedures.

Developments in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have only been possible due to work from this partnership. This Special Issue will provide an excellent forum to bring together different communities and publish research of a high caliber, which will be beneficial to healthcare. For this purpose, we invite you to submit original research articles and reviews on any of the topics mentioned above.

We look forward to receiving your submissions.

Dr. Angelo Michele Inchingolo
Dr. Gianna Dipalma
Dr. Assunta Patano
Dr. Alessio Danilo Inchingolo
Dr. Giuseppina Malcangi
Prof. Dr. Francesco Inchingolo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Biomedicines is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • dental biomaterials
  • oral surgery
  • orthodontic
  • aligners
  • maxillofacial surgery
  • dental disease
  • dental materials
  • orthodontic diseases
  • periodontology
  • oral implantology
  • regenerative tissue
  • growth factor
  • stem cells
  • bone regeneration
  • tissue regeneration
  • engineering
  • intraoral scan
  • personalized medicine

Published Papers (10 papers)

Order results
Result details
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

9 pages, 935 KiB  
Article
Clinical Comparative Study of Shade Measurement Using Two Methods: Dental Guides and Spectrophotometry
by Alfonso Alvarado-Lorenzo, Laura Criado-Pérez, Mónica Cano-Rosás, Eva Lozano-García, Juan López-Palafox and Mario Alvarado-Lorenzo
Biomedicines 2024, 12(4), 825; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12040825 - 09 Apr 2024
Viewed by 344
Abstract
Tooth color is a determining factor in the fabrication of dental prostheses. The aim of the present study is to compare two measurement methods used in the field of dentistry: dental guides and spectrophotometry. A total of 2768 natural teeth were measured using [...] Read more.
Tooth color is a determining factor in the fabrication of dental prostheses. The aim of the present study is to compare two measurement methods used in the field of dentistry: dental guides and spectrophotometry. A total of 2768 natural teeth were measured using the Vita Classical and Vita 3D-Master dental guides (Vita-Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany), as well as a Vita Easyshade Compact spectrophotometer (Vita-Zahnfabrik). The measurements were carried out by one operator under suitable illumination conditions at 5500 degrees Kelvin. The obtained results show that the measurements obtained with the Vita Classical dental guide classifies teeth into the A-B categories, while the spectrophotometer preferentially classifies teeth into the B-C categories. The correlation coefficients obtained with the dental guides ranged from −0.32 to −0.39 (p < 0.01), while those for the spectrophotometer ranged from −0.35 to −0.55 (p < 0.01). Therefore, we can conclude that the spectrophotometer is more reliable and reproducible in its measurements than the dental guides. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Dental Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 3281 KiB  
Article
Properties of Nanohybrid Dental Composites—A Comparative In Vitro Study
by Mihaela Păstrav, Ovidiu Păstrav, Andrea Maria Chisnoiu, Radu Marcel Chisnoiu, Stanca Cuc, Ioan Petean, Codruța Saroși and Dana Feștilă
Biomedicines 2024, 12(1), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12010243 - 22 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 981
Abstract
(1) Background: the current study investigated three nanohybrid composites: two commercial products ClearfilMajestyTM (CM) and HarmonizeTM (HU), compared with an experimental product PS2. (2) Methods: Two sample types were molded using Teflon dies. The first sample type was represented by standard [...] Read more.
(1) Background: the current study investigated three nanohybrid composites: two commercial products ClearfilMajestyTM (CM) and HarmonizeTM (HU), compared with an experimental product PS2. (2) Methods: Two sample types were molded using Teflon dies. The first sample type was represented by standard discs (20 mm diameter and 2 mm thickness) (n = 60, 20/each material), used for surface conditioning investigation, specifically roughness monitoring and color stability analysis using AFM and the CIELab test, respectively. The second sample type was a standard cylindrical specimen (4 mm diameter and 6 mm height) for compression testing (n = 60, 20/each material). After complete polymerization, the samples were ground with sandpaper and further polished. The filler size and distribution in the polymer matrix were investigated with SEM. Data were statistically analyzed using the Anova Test followed by Tukey’s post hoc test on the Origin Lab 2019 software produced by OriginLab Corporation, Northampton, MA, USA. (3) Results: A mono-disperse system was identified in HU samples, while CM and PS2 revealed both nano- and microfiller particles. The samples’ observation after immersion in coffee and tea indicated that a lower roughness combined with optimal filler lamination within the polymer matrix assured the best color preservation. The compression strength was lower for the HU sample, while higher values were obtained for the complex filler systems within CM and PS2. (4) Conclusions: the behavior of the investigated nanohybrid composites strongly depends on the microstructural features. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Dental Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1383 KiB  
Article
Skeletal and Dentoalveolar Changes in Growing Patients Treated with Rapid Maxillary Expansion Measured in 3D Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
by Peri Colino-Gallardo, Irene Del Fresno-Aguilar, Laura Castillo-Montaño, Carlos Colino-Paniagua, Hugo Baptista-Sánchez, Laura Criado-Pérez and Alfonso Alvarado-Lorenzo
Biomedicines 2023, 11(12), 3305; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11123305 - 13 Dec 2023
Viewed by 898
Abstract
The skeletal and dental effects of rapid maxillary expansion (RME) have been extensively studied, but high-quality research is still needed to determine the three-dimensional (3D) effects of RME. The aim of this study was to compare skeletal and dentoalveolar parameters through cone-beam computed [...] Read more.
The skeletal and dental effects of rapid maxillary expansion (RME) have been extensively studied, but high-quality research is still needed to determine the three-dimensional (3D) effects of RME. The aim of this study was to compare skeletal and dentoalveolar parameters through cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) pre- (T1) and post-treatment (T2) with respect to RME. Twenty growing patients (mean age 10.7 years) were treated with a Hyrax-type expander. A 3D CBCT was performed at T1 and T2, measuring nasal width, maxillary width, palatal height, maxillary arch perimeter, angulation of the upper first molar, and intermolar width. The mean palatal suture opening was 2.85 ± 0.62 mm (p < 0.0001). Nasal width increased 1.28 ± 0.64 mm and maxillary width 2.79 ± 1.48 mm (p < 0.0001). In contrast, palatal height was reduced 0.65 ± 0.64 mm (p < 0.0001). Regarding arch perimeter, the radicular perimeter increased 2.89 ± 1.80 mm, while the coronal perimeter increased 3.42 ± 2.09 mm (p < 0.0001). Molar angulation increased 5.62 ± 3.20° for the right molar and 4.74 ± 2.22° for the left molar (p < 0.0001). Intermolar width increased 5.21 ± 1.55 mm (p < 0.0001). Treatment with Hyrax produced a significant opening in the mean palatal suture. Also, a significant increase in nasal width, maxillary width, arch perimeter, molar angulation, and intermolar width, and a decrease in palatal height, were observed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Dental Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2767 KiB  
Article
Metalloproteinases in Restorative Dentistry: An In Silico Study toward an Ideal Animal Model
by Simone Gomes de Oliveira, Nelson Kotowski, Helio Rodrigues Sampaio-Filho, Flávio Henrique Baggio Aguiar, Alberto Martín Rivera Dávila and Rodrigo Jardim
Biomedicines 2023, 11(11), 3042; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11113042 - 14 Nov 2023
Viewed by 737
Abstract
In dentistry, various animal models are used to evaluate adhesive systems, dental caries and periodontal diseases. Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes that degrade collagen in the dentin matrix and are categorized in over 20 different classes. Collagenases and gelatinases are intrinsic constituents of the [...] Read more.
In dentistry, various animal models are used to evaluate adhesive systems, dental caries and periodontal diseases. Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes that degrade collagen in the dentin matrix and are categorized in over 20 different classes. Collagenases and gelatinases are intrinsic constituents of the human dentin organic matrix fibrillar network and are the most abundant MMPs in this tissue. Understanding such enzymes’ action on dentin is important in the development of approaches that could reduce dentin degradation and provide restorative procedures with extended longevity. This in silico study is based on dentistry’s most used animal models and intends to search for the most suitable, evolutionarily close to Homo sapiens. We were able to retrieve 176,077 mammalian MMP sequences from the UniProt database. These sequences were manually curated through a three-step process. After such, the remaining 3178 sequences were aligned in a multifasta file and phylogenetically reconstructed using the maximum likelihood method. Our study inferred that the animal models most evolutionarily related to Homo sapiens were Orcytolagus cuniculus (MMP-1 and MMP-8), Canis lupus (MMP-13), Rattus norvegicus (MMP-2) and Orcytolagus cuniculus (MMP-9). Further research will be needed for the biological validation of our findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Dental Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 15943 KiB  
Article
Statistical Comparison of the Mechanical Properties of 3D-Printed Resin through Triple-Jetting Technology and Conventional PMMA in Orthodontic Occlusal Splint Manufacturing
by Ioan Barbur, Horia Opris, Bogdan Crisan, Stanca Cuc, Horatiu Alexandru Colosi, Mihaela Baciut, Daiana Opris, Doina Prodan, Marioara Moldovan, Liana Crisan, Cristian Dinu and Grigore Baciut
Biomedicines 2023, 11(8), 2155; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11082155 - 31 Jul 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1465
Abstract
Dental 3D-printing technologies, including stereolithography (SLA), polyjet (triple-jetting technology), and fusion deposition modeling, have revolutionized the field of orthodontic occlusal splint manufacturing. Three-dimensional printing is now currently used in many dental fields, such as restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, implantology, and orthodontics. This study aimed [...] Read more.
Dental 3D-printing technologies, including stereolithography (SLA), polyjet (triple-jetting technology), and fusion deposition modeling, have revolutionized the field of orthodontic occlusal splint manufacturing. Three-dimensional printing is now currently used in many dental fields, such as restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, implantology, and orthodontics. This study aimed to assess the mechanical properties of 3D-printed materials and compare them with the conventional polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). Compression, flexural, and tensile properties were evaluated and compared between PMMA samples (n = 20) created using the “salt and pepper” technique and digitally designed 3D-printed samples (n = 20). The samples were subjected to scanning electron microscope analysis. Statistical analysis revealed that the control material (PMMA) exhibited a significantly higher Young’s modulus of compression and tensile strength (p < 0.05). In the flexural tests, the control samples demonstrated superior load at break results (p < 0.05). However, the 3D-printed samples exhibited significantly higher maximum bending stress at maximum load (MPa) (p < 0.05). Young’s modulus of tensile testing (MPa) was statistically significant higher for the control samples, while the 3D-printed samples demonstrated significantly higher values for elongation at break (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that 3D-printed materials are a promising alternative that can be effectively utilized in clinical practice, potentially replacing traditional heat-cured resin in various applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Dental Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3724 KiB  
Article
Improving the Mechanical Properties of Orthodontic Occlusal Splints Using Nanoparticles: Silver and Zinc Oxide
by Ioan Barbur, Horia Opris, Horatiu Alexandru Colosi, Mihaela Baciut, Daiana Opris, Stanca Cuc, Ioan Petean, Marioara Moldovan, Cristian Mihail Dinu and Grigore Baciut
Biomedicines 2023, 11(7), 1965; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11071965 - 12 Jul 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1076
Abstract
The goal of the current study was to determine the mechanical proprieties of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and the improved compound, the graphene-based PMMA, with Zn and Ag and to compare the results. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of the samples before and after the mechanical [...] Read more.
The goal of the current study was to determine the mechanical proprieties of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and the improved compound, the graphene-based PMMA, with Zn and Ag and to compare the results. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of the samples before and after the mechanical test was conducted. The compression behavior, flexural properties, tensile strength, and shape of the samples were all investigated and compared between the variants of PMMA. Commercially available polymethylmethacrylate was used (Orthocryl®—Dentaurum, Ispringen, Germany) with the salt and pepper technique according to the manufacturer’s instructions to produce 20 samples for each mechanical trial with standard cylinders (4 mm diameter × 8 mm length) for compression, parallelepipedal prisms for flexing (2 mm × 2 mm × 25 mm) and flat samples for traction. There was no statistical difference in the mechanical proprieties of the samples evaluated, although there were values that could suggest significance. The graphene-based PMMA demonstrated good mechanical proprieties, like the commercially available PMMA, and appears promising for future clinical use based on its multiple advantages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Dental Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 10211 KiB  
Article
Innovative Nanostructured Fillers for Dental Resins: Nanoporous Alumina and Titania Nanotubes
by Roberto Eggenhöffner, Paola Ghisellini, Cristina Rando, Eugenia Pechkova, Tercio Terencio, Barbara Mazzolai, Luca Giacomelli, Katia Barbaro and Stefano Benedicenti
Biomedicines 2023, 11(7), 1926; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11071926 - 07 Jul 2023
Viewed by 1053
Abstract
The possibility of improving dental restorative materials is investigated through the addition of two different types of fillers to a polymeric resin. These fillers, consisting of porous alumina and TiO2 nanotubes, are compared based on their common physicochemical properties on the nanometric [...] Read more.
The possibility of improving dental restorative materials is investigated through the addition of two different types of fillers to a polymeric resin. These fillers, consisting of porous alumina and TiO2 nanotubes, are compared based on their common physicochemical properties on the nanometric scale. The aim was to characterize and compare the surface morphological properties of composite resins with different types of fillers using analytical techniques. Moreover, ways to optimize the mechanical, surface, and aesthetic properties of reinforced polymer composites are discussed for applications in dental treatments. Filler-reinforced polymer composites are the most widely used materials in curing dental pathologies, although it remains necessary to optimize properties such as mechanical resistance, surface characteristics, and biocompatibility. Anodized porous alumina nanoparticles prepared by electrochemical anodization offer a route to improve mechanical properties and biocompatibility as well as to allow for the controlled release of bioactive molecules that can promote tissue integration and regeneration. The inclusion of TiO2 nanotubes prepared by hydrothermal treatment in the resin matrix promotes the improvement of mechanical and physical properties such as strength, stiffness, and hardness, as well as aesthetic properties such as color stability and translucency. The surface morphological properties of composite resins with anodized porous alumina and TiO2 nanotube fillers were characterized by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and X-ray chemical analysis. In addition, the stress–strain behavior of the two composite resins is examined in comparison with enamel and dentin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Dental Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 3330 KiB  
Article
Predictability and Effectiveness of Nuvola® Aligners in Dentoalveolar Transverse Changes: A Retrospective Study
by Angelo Michele Inchingolo, Sabino Ceci, Giovanni Coloccia, Daniela Azzollini, Giuseppina Malcangi, Antonio Mancini, Francesco Inchingolo, Paolo Trerotoli, Gianna Dipalma and Assunta Patano
Biomedicines 2023, 11(5), 1366; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11051366 - 05 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1301
Abstract
Nowadays, many people use clear aligners to address their dental issues. The efficacy of transparent dental aligners must be investigated even though they are more aesthetically pleasing, easy to use, and tidy than permanent tools. Thirty-five patients in this study’s sample group who [...] Read more.
Nowadays, many people use clear aligners to address their dental issues. The efficacy of transparent dental aligners must be investigated even though they are more aesthetically pleasing, easy to use, and tidy than permanent tools. Thirty-five patients in this study’s sample group who used Nuvola® clear aligners for their orthodontic therapy were prospectively observed. Initial, simulated, and final digital scans were analysed with a digital calliper. The actual results were compared with the prescribed ending position to evaluate the efficacy of transversal dentoalveolar expansion. Aligner treatments in Groups A (12) and B (24), particularly in the dental tip measures, demonstrated high adherence to the prescription. On the other hand, the gingival measures exhibited a greater level of bias, and the differences were statistically significant. However, there was no difference in the outcomes between the two groups (12 vs. 24). Within specific parameters, the evaluated aligners were shown to be helpful in predicting movements in the transverse plane, particularly when considering movements linked to the vestibular–palatal inclination of the dental elements. This article compares the expansion effectiveness of Nuvola® aligners compared with other work in the literature using competitor companies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Dental Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

18 pages, 525 KiB  
Review
Translucent Zirconia in Fixed Prosthodontics—An Integrative Overview
by Andreea Kui, Manuela Manziuc, Adrian Petruțiu, Smaranda Buduru, Anca Labuneț, Marius Negucioiu and Andrea Chisnoiu
Biomedicines 2023, 11(12), 3116; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11123116 - 22 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1230
Abstract
Over the past two decades, dental ceramics have experienced rapid advances in science and technology, becoming the fastest-growing field of dental materials. This review emphasizes the significant impact of translucent zirconia in fixed prosthodontics, merging aesthetics with strength, and highlights its versatility from [...] Read more.
Over the past two decades, dental ceramics have experienced rapid advances in science and technology, becoming the fastest-growing field of dental materials. This review emphasizes the significant impact of translucent zirconia in fixed prosthodontics, merging aesthetics with strength, and highlights its versatility from single crowns to complex bridgework facilitated by digital manufacturing advancements. The unique light-conducting properties of translucent zirconia offer a natural dental appearance, though with considerations regarding strength trade-offs compared to its traditional, opaque counterpart. The analysis extends to the mechanical attributes of the material, noting its commendable fracture resistance and durability, even under simulated physiological conditions. Various zirconia types (3Y-TZP, 4Y-TZP, 5Y-TZP) display a range of strengths influenced by factors like yttria content and manufacturing processes. The study also explores adhesive strategies, underlining the importance of surface treatments and modern adhesives in achieving long-lasting bonds. In the realm of implant-supported restorations, translucent zirconia stands out for its precision, reliability, and aesthetic adaptability, proving suitable for comprehensive dental restorations. Despite its established benefits, the review calls for ongoing research to further refine the material’s properties and adhesive protocols and to solidify its applicability through long-term clinical evaluations, ensuring its sustainable future in dental restorative applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Dental Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

35 pages, 2949 KiB  
Review
Can Graphene Pave the Way to Successful Periodontal and Dental Prosthetic Treatments? A Narrative Review
by Alina Mihaela Apostu, Irina-Georgeta Sufaru, Oana Tanculescu, Simona Stoleriu, Adrian Doloca, Alice Arina Ciocan Pendefunda and Sorina Mihaela Solomon
Biomedicines 2023, 11(9), 2354; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11092354 - 23 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1396
Abstract
Graphene, as a promising material, holds the potential to significantly enhance the field of dental practices. Incorporating graphene into dental materials imparts enhanced strength and durability, while graphene-based nanocomposites offer the prospect of innovative solutions such as antimicrobial dental implants or scaffolds. Ongoing [...] Read more.
Graphene, as a promising material, holds the potential to significantly enhance the field of dental practices. Incorporating graphene into dental materials imparts enhanced strength and durability, while graphene-based nanocomposites offer the prospect of innovative solutions such as antimicrobial dental implants or scaffolds. Ongoing research into graphene-based dental adhesives and composites also suggests their capacity to improve the quality and reliability of dental restorations. This narrative review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the application of graphene derivatives in the dental domain, with a particular focus on their application in prosthodontics and periodontics. It is important to acknowledge that further research and development are imperative to fully explore the potential of graphene and ensure its safe use in dental practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Dental Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Back to TopTop