History of dental biomaterials: biocompatibility, durability and still open challenges

Abstract

Objective: This review paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the historical evolution of dental biomaterials, as well as to understand the reasons behind their biocompatibility and to identify the key factors that have influenced their development and use over the past 5000 years. Data sources: The sources for this review were primarily obtained through Scopus and other online databases, such as Google Scholar, which were searched for relevant publications spanning clinical, archeological, and materials science literature. In cases where no other sources were available, information was gathered through consultation with museums and owners of private collections. Study selection: Our search was conducted using specific materials and ages as keywords and, for the last two centuries, retrieving scientific articles written at that time of the first development and commercialization. When possible, secondary sources such as literature reviews were prioritized, while not peer-reviewed documents were utilized only when no other sources were available. References with varying perspective and findings were included, also when presented contradictory or controversial information. Conclusions: In this review, clinical, archeological and chemical data could be merged into a comprehensive analysis of the historical evolution of the concept of biocompatibility in dental materials. The results of this review emphasize the significant advances that have been made in the field of dental biomaterials in terms of biocompatibility, from the use of gold and other metals in ancient civilizations to the development of modern materials such as resin composites and ceramics. Clinical significance: By analyzing the development and use of dental biomaterials over the centuries from clinical, archeological and chemical perspectives, the review sheds light on the key factors that have shaped our understanding of biocompatibility in dental materials and the importance of this concept in the success of dental restorations.