Modulating the oral microbiome with dental biomaterials: A review of challenges, advances, and future perspectives

The oral microbiome plays a pivotal role in maintaining both oral and systemic health. Recent studies highlight the potential of dental biomaterials to modulate this complex microbial community. Because of the short retention time imposed by the dynamic oral environment, oral microbiome-modulating dental biomaterials require unique design considerations. This Review outlines recent advances in oral microbiome-modulating biomaterials, including probiotic delivery platforms, stem-cell transplantation, metal-ion-releasing hydrogels, antimicrobial and antioxidant materials, and enamel-mimicking membranes. These dental biomaterials selectively suppress pathogenic species such as Porphyromonas gingivalis while promoting commensal microbes. Bio-inspired design and artificial-intelligence-assisted material discovery are emerging as promising strategies. Ultimately, oral microbiome-modulating dental biomaterials can be leveraged to treat systemic diseases-including tumors and cardiovascular disorders-by promoting the saliva-mediated translocation of beneficial commensals. Integrating microbiology with materials science will be essential for personalized modulation of the oral microbiome and successful clinical translation.