Nanoparticles in caries prevention: A review

Abstract

Nanotechnology is the branch of engineering that uses molecular machines with precise structures that are less than or equal to 0.1 μm in size. The word nano denotes 10 to the power of minus nine or 1 billionth. Treatment options for dental caries have been extensively studied; among them, the role of nanoparticles is of recent interest. Nanoparticles have shown promising results in the field of caries prevention because of their unique physical, mechanical, and biological characteristics. Nanosized systems have distinctive properties due to their increased surface-to-volume ratio and increased bioavailability toward cells and tissues. Furthermore, improved surface area results in better mechanical interlocking of nanoparticles to the resin matrix. They prevent dental caries by antimicrobial, remineralizing, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Although many nanoparticles have been studied for their role in caries prevention, only a few materials which were extensively studied are included in this review.