Nanotechnology in Dentistry: Past, Present, and Future

Abstract

Nanotechnology is the production of functional materials and structures ranging from 0.1 to 100 nm using various chemical and physical methods. The fields of application of nanotechnology cover a wide range including machinery production, defense industry, space and aircraft technologies, information and communication systems, energy systems, chemistry, environment, molecular biology, gene engineering, medicine, and dentistry. Nano dentistry may be described as the science and technology of diagnosing, treating and preventing oral and dental diseases, reducing/eliminating pain and improving oral health, by using nanosized materials, tissue engineering and dental nanorobotics. Although many diseases in dentistry can be treated by conventional methods, the new era of nanotechnology in dentistry will bring revolutionary approaches in diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases. Current research in nanodentistry includes preventive, diagnostic, reconstructive, regenerative, restorative, and rehabilitative fields.