Advanced Biomaterials for Restorative Dentistry: From Biocompatibility to Bioactive and Smart Materials

(1) Background: The development of advanced dental biomaterials has significantly improved restorative dentistry, shifting the focus from purely mechanical restoration toward materials capable of interacting biologically with oral tissues. Modern restorative materials are expected to demonstrate high biocompatibility, adequate mechanical properties, and potential bioactivity that may support tissue preservation and long-term clinical performance. This review aims to analyze recent advances in next-generation dental restorative materials and to evaluate their biological compatibility and potential clinical relevance. (2) Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using major scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on studies addressing advanced polymer-based composites, bioactive restorative materials, dental ceramics, computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) restorative systems, and nanostructured biomaterials used in restorative dentistry. Relevant studies published in recent years were analyzed with respect to material composition, biological response, and reported clinical performance. (3) Results: The reviewed literature indicates that modern dental biomaterials, including nanocomposites, bioactive glass-containing materials, calcium silicate-based systems, and hybrid ceramic materials, show improved mechanical stability, enhanced remineralization potential, and reduced bacterial adhesion compared with traditional restorative materials. Advances in nanotechnology and material engineering have also contributed to the development of antimicrobial and bioactive restorative systems. (4) Conclusions: Next-generation dental restorative materials demonstrate promising characteristics that may improve clinical outcomes and biological integration in restorative dentistry; however, further long-term clinical investigations are required to fully confirm their safety, durability, and long-term effectiveness.