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Contemporary Use of Polymers in Dentistry: A Narrative Review
Svetla Ivanova1, Zlatina Tomova1, Angelina Vlahova1
1Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Medical University of Plovdiv, 15-A "Vasil Aprilov" Blvd, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Polymers
|January 10, 2026
Summary
Dental polymers like PMMA and PEEK are crucial in modern dentistry, with ongoing innovations in restorative materials and clear aligners. Future research should focus on material performance and sustainability for better clinical translation.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Polymeric materials are integral to diverse dental applications, including prosthodontics, restorative treatments, orthodontics, and implantology.
- The period from 2020-2025 has seen significant advancements in polymer utilization within dentistry.
- Key polymer classes include polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), and advanced resin composites.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review contemporary applications of polymeric materials in dentistry from 2020-2025.
- To synthesize evidence on polymer classes, processing, properties, and clinical performance.
- To identify trends and challenges in dental polymer research and application.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review methodology was employed.
- Searches were conducted across major scientific databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase.
- Approximately 116 peer-reviewed English language articles were included in the synthesis.
Main Results:
- Polymers like PMMA (dentures) and PEEK (frameworks, implants) remain essential.
- Innovations include nanofillers and bioactive agents in resin composites and adhesives for enhanced durability and reduced secondary caries.
- Thermoplastic polyurethanes and copolyesters are key in clear aligner therapy; polymer-based materials support endodontic treatments.
- Additive manufacturing and CAD/CAM technologies facilitate customized dental prostheses and guides.
- Sustainability is driving interest in biodegradable and recyclable dental polymers.
Conclusions:
- Polymeric materials continue to be central to dental practice, with expanding applications and evolving formulations.
- Clinical translation requires balancing material properties (strength, esthetics, biocompatibility) with workflow and aging considerations.
- Emerging trends include advanced manufacturing techniques and a focus on sustainable dental polymers.
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