Functional Hydrogels for Intraoral Wound Care: Research Progress and Design Strategies.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Oral Biology

Background:

• Oral soft tissue defects impair function and aesthetics, with current grafts having limitations.
• Free gingival grafts (FGGs) and connective tissue grafts (CTGs) face donor site morbidity and structural issues.
• Hydrogels offer biocompatibility and tunable properties for oral tissue repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review hydrogel applications in oral wound healing.
• To discuss challenges specific to the oral environment.
• To explore hydrogel design, manufacturing, and therapeutic potential.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review focusing on hydrogels for oral soft tissue repair.
• Analysis of histological structures and oral environment challenges.
• Examination of natural and synthetic polymer design strategies.
• Review of advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D bioprinting and electrospinning.

Main Results:

• Hydrogels possess advantageous biocompatibility and mechanical properties for oral mucosa repair.
• Advanced manufacturing methods enable tailored hydrogel fabrication for specific oral applications.
• Hydrogels show potential in mucosa repair, gingival regeneration, and periodontal therapy.

Conclusions:

• Hydrogels represent a promising biomaterial for addressing oral soft tissue defects.
• Further research into hydrogel design and application can overcome limitations of current therapies.
• Hydrogels offer a versatile platform for enhancing oral wound healing and regeneration.