Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
nanocomposites offer an example of how nanotechnology offers an attractive path to the develop-
ment of new implant materials, but ceramics, even nanocomposite ceramics, will not replicate the
unique combinations of mechanical properties of tooth tissues as they are, for example, much stiffer
and wear resistant. A possibility is to develop new hybrid organic/inorganic materials whose prop-
erties will closely match those of the tissue for which they substitute. However, the use of synthetic
composite materials as permanent replacements for bone, which generated much excitement 30
40
years ago
[73]
, remains largely unmet due to significant challenges related to fabrication, perfor-
mance, and cost. Current hybrid organic/inorganic composites have significant problems related
mostly to their mechanical performance and their degradation in vivo. As a result, the use of
synthetic composite materials as permanent replacements for bone is nearly nonexistent. To achieve
dramatic improvements in in vivo performance of composites for dental implants and skeletal tissue
repair, new ways of approaching composite design and fabrication are needed. Ideally, these mate-
rials would be capable of self-healing, as is the case in many biological materials. In addition, teeth
have a complex structure in which several tissues (enamel, dentin, cementum, and pulp) with very
different properties and structure are arranged. An ideal artificial tooth requires the combination of
several synthetic materials with prescribed properties
[74]
.
2.8
Conclusions
Nanotechnology has achieved tremendous progress in the past several decades. It is expected that
nanotechnology will change dentistry, health care, and human life more profoundly than many
developments of the past. As with all technologies, nanotechnology carries a significant potential
for misuse and abuse on a scale and scope never seen before. However, they also have potential to
bring about significant benefits, such as improved health, better use of natural resources, and
reduced environmental pollution. Nanotechnology has been used for dental applications in several
forms, including the field of prosthodontics with the development of nanobiomaterials as a useful
tool. To date, there has been an exponential increase in studies using nanotechnology for other
dental applications. It is not too early to consider, evaluate, and attempt to shape potential effects
of nanodentistry. Nanodentistry will lead to efficient and highly effective personalized dental treat-
ments. Nanotechnology seems to be where the world is headed if technology keeps advancing and
competition practically guarantees that advance will continue. It will open a huge range of opportu-
nities of benefit for both the dentist and the patient.
References
[1] T. Kaehler, Nanotechnology: basic concepts and definitions, Clin. Chem. 40 (9) (1994) 1797
1799.
[2] R.A. Freitas, Nanomedicine/Basic Capabilities, vol. 1, Landes Bioscience, Georgetown, TX, 1999,
pp. 345
347.
[3] N. Taniguchi, Proc. International Conference on Precision Engineering (ICPE), Tokyo, Japan, 1974,
pp. 18
23.
[4] T.J. Webster, Int. J. Nanomed. 2 (2007) 1.
