Bioengineering Innovations in Global Dental Infection Control: Applications and Adaptations in Clinical Settings

Dental practices pose a high risk of microbial contamination due to frequent exposure to bodily fluids like saliva and blood. Bioengineering innovations have emerged as vital tools to enhance infection control in dental settings. This review aims to assess the global applications and effectiveness of these innovations, particularly focusing on antimicrobial biomaterials, sterilization techniques, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

A systematic review was conducted across major databases to identify studies from 2000 to 2024 that examined bioengineering technologies used in dental infection control. Inclusion criteria included studies focusing on antimicrobial materials, PPE, or novel sterilization technologies. Data extraction followed PRISMA guidelines, focusing on study design, dental settings, and clinical outcomes related to infection control.

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria, covering diverse geographical regions, including Italy, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and India. Antimicrobial agents like silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles, UV-C sterilization, and low-temperature plasma were found to significantly reduce microbial contamination. The pooled effect size across studies was 1.62 (95% CI: 1.41-1.82) with low heterogeneity (I² = 6.4%). However, barriers such as high costs and limited resource availability were highlighted, particularly in lower-income regions.

Bioengineering innovations show significant potential for enhancing infection control in dental settings worldwide. While the technologies offer improved safety and hygiene, challenges related to cost and accessibility persist. Further research is needed to explore cost-effective and scalable solutions, particularly in resource-limited settings.

The integration of bioengineering technologies in dental practices can significantly improve infection control measures, reducing microbial contamination and enhancing safety for both patients and healthcare workers. These innovations hold promise for global adaptation, particularly in response to emerging public health challenges.