During enamel biomineralization, spontaneous self-assembly www.selleckchem.com/products/Tipifarnib(R115777).html of the amelogenin protein in nano-spheres plays an important role in controlling the growth of apatite crystals with carbon dioxide. This process can be implemented for forming other mineralized tissues such as bone and cement, in which nano-structures were similarly used.5 Nanomaterials for periodontal drug delivery Researchers have attempted to generate an effective and satisfactory drug delivery system for the treatment of periodontal diseases by producing nanoparticles impregnated with triclosan. It was concluded that the application of triclosan particles into the test area alleviated inflammation.5 Although this study investigated only periodontal therapy, it indicated that targeted drug delivery with nanomaterials is possible for other treatments.
The best example of the future use of this technology is a procedure called Arestin?, in which microspheres containing tetracycline are placed into periodontal pockets and tetracycline is administered locally.5 An in-vitro study performed with a toothpaste containing nanosized carbonate apatite showed that dentin tubules were effectively sealed, which is important for sustained treatment of dentin sensitivity.46 Nanotechnology for preventing dental caries The use of a toothpaste containing nanosized calcium carbonate enabled remineralization of early enamel lesions.47 Furthermore, a study that investigated the bacteriostatic effects of silver, zinc oxide, and gold nanoparticles on Streptococcus mutans, which causes dental caries, reported that compared to the other nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles had an antimicrobial effect in lower concentrations and with lower toxicity.
48 Digital dental imaging Advances in digital dental imaging techniques are also expected with nanotechnology. In digital radiographies obtained by nanophosphor scintillators, the radiation dose is diminished and high-quality images are obtained.49 Applications of nanotechnology in oral and maxillofacial surgery Selective cell manipulation and surgery performed with tools sized at the molecular level will provide great benefits, particularly in tumor tissue surgery.50 FUTURE FIELDS OF APPLICATION OF NANOTECHNOLOGY IN DENTISTRY In nanodentistry, millions of active analgesic nanoparticles in a colloidal suspension are placed into the patient��s gingiva, and the anesthesia effectiveness is controlled by the dentist Brefeldin_A via nanorobots moving into the gingival sulcus. Nanorobotic analgesics are an excellent modality to provide comfort to the patient and alleviate anxiety. Many of the adverse effects and complications associated with the use of typical local analgesic solutions are absent.