Stimuli-Responsive Nanosystems for Theranostic Applications in Oral Diseases

Oral diseases, characterized by a high incidence rate and significant impact on patients' quality of life, have emerged as a pressing global health concern amidst escalating societal pressures. Advancements in advanced materials are crucial for the prevention, detection, and treatment of most oral diseases due to their heavy reliance on materials. Nanotechnology has facilitated the development of various nanomaterial-based preparations that have garnered considerable attention in stomatology due to their inherent advantages such as enhanced biosafety, multifunctionality, and targeted therapy capabilities. Responsive nanomaterials offer a breakthrough solution to overcome limitations associated with drug release kinetics, leading to reduced effective drug concentrations while simultaneously exhibiting antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, osteogenic properties along with remineralization functions within safe parameters. Substantial progress has been made towards the long-term prevention and treatment of oral diseases through these responsive nanomaterials. This review begins by elucidating the response mechanisms underlying nanomaterials, followed by an overview of their applications in treating oral diseases. Finally, we discuss the challenges faced and future directions for utilizing advanced materials in addressing treatments for oral diseases. The insights provided herein hold significant implications for both basic research endeavors and clinical translation within stomatology.