Emerging Polymers in Dentistry

Abstract

Polymers represent the foundation of modern restorative Dentistry. The majority of dental procedures currently utilized in clinical dentistry depend on the close interaction of polymeric materials with dental tissues. In fact, the den- tal matrix itself is largely constituted of natural polymers, such as collagen fibrils, that constitute the organic matrix of dentin, cementum and bone. In this chapter, several direct restorative materials will be described in light of their polymeric composition and dental application. Particular emphasis will be given to emerging restorative materials, such as new classes of dental adhesives and composite resins. Additionally, we discuss emerging classes of dental polymers, which have been recently utilized to infiltrate demineralized enamel and to assist remineralization of collagen fibrils in carious dentin.