An Overview of Antibacterial Dental Restorative Materials

Abstract

Antibacterial dental restorative materials (ADRM) have been developed to prevent or treat dental caries and other infections. Glass ionomer cements (GICs), composite resins, calcium hydroxide-based materials, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), bioactive glasses, silver-containing materials, quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), chlorhexidine, nanoparticles, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) are common types of ADRMs. They have antibacterial properties due to the release of fluoride ions, QACs, silver nanoparticles, calcium and hydroxyl ions. ADRMs can prevent tooth decay, promote healing of pulp tissue and regenerate damaged tissues. Researchers are exploring new agents like nanoparticles and antimicrobial peptides to improve the antibacterial properties of ADRMs. PDT is a promising technology for improving the antibacterial properties of dental restorative materials. Antibacterial bioactive dental materials like bioactive glasses, calcium phosphate-based materials, hydroxyapatite-based materials, antibacterial peptides, and silver-containing materials have been developed to provide an additional layer of protection against infection and improve the longevity of dental restorations.