Application of Amorphous Nanomaterials in Dentistry: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology in Dentistry
• Biomaterials Science
• Materials Chemistry

Background:

• Conventional crystalline dental materials face limitations in corrosion resistance, bioactivity, and drug delivery.
• Amorphous nanomaterials, with their disordered atomic structure, present unique advantages for dental applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review amorphous nanomaterials in dentistry, covering their synthesis, properties, applications, and limitations.
• To explore five major categories: calcium-, silicon-, magnesium-, zirconia-, and polymer-based amorphous nanomaterials.

Main Methods:

• Investigated synthesis methods like sol-gel processes, rapid precipitation, and electrochemical etching.
• Analyzed properties such as enhanced solubility, drug-loading capacity, surface reactivity, and biodegradability.
• Reviewed applications including enamel remineralization, antibacterial agent release, bone regeneration, mechanical strengthening, and controlled medication delivery.

Main Results:

• Amorphous calcium phosphate aids in tooth enamel remineralization.
• Silicon-based nanomaterials deliver stimuli-responsive antibacterial agents.
• Magnesium-based nanomaterials exhibit antibacterial effects and promote bone regeneration.
• Zirconia-based nanomaterials enhance restorative material strength.
• Polymer-based nanomaterials facilitate sustained drug release.

Conclusions:

• Amorphous nanomaterials show significant promise for advancing dental treatments and improving patient outcomes.
• Future directions include developing smart, responsive materials and hybrid systems.
• Challenges remain in material stability, degradation control, and scalable manufacturing.