When considering the latest innovations in dental technology, it’s impossible to ignore the developments of nanotechnology, and its applications in the profession. Richard P. Feynman is seen by many as the founder of nanotechnology,[i] following his visionary lecture “There’s Plenty of Room at the Bottom”.[ii] While he did not mention ‘nanotechnology’ by name, his lecture discussed the potential benefits of using information on a small scale, and many of his visions have now been realised. Today, nanotechnology has impacted many scientific fields including engineering, technology, medicine, and, of course, dentistry.[iii]
What is nanotechnology?
Engineering at a scale below 100 nanometres is nanotechnology.[iv] The modern application of nanotechnology truly began in 1981 with the scanning tunnelling microscope used to view and manipulate atoms – it’s creators later won the 1986 Nobel Prize in Physics for its invention.[v]
The surface area of a material can be increased using nanotechnology – this is one of the key reasons for nanomaterials’ increased strength, durability, and conductivity when compared to larger-scale options.[vi] Within the dental profession, nanotechnology has the potential to deliver precise pain management, improve dental restorations, and alleviate dental hypersensitivity.[vii]
Current applications in dentistry
As mentioned, nanotechnology can be applied in dentistry in a number of ways. These might include nanosurgery, nanodrugs, and the production of a wide range of nanomaterials which have a significant impact on clinical dentistry.[viii] Ceramic materials are commonly used in prosthodontics in the manufacture of dental crowns and dentures. While their properties offer strength and low thermal conductivity, they are relatively brittle. As such, the use of nanotechnology can be used to improve its features. Nano-zirconia ceramic is tougher and harder, and offers improved translucency and corrosion resistance.[ix] Nanomaterials can be added to composite materials too, with the introduction of silica, zirconia, and titanium demonstrating enhanced mechanical properties.[x]
Nanodentistry also has applications in dental implantology in the design of new implant materials for improved osseointegration. This is because the dental implant’s nanostructured surfaces better allow the implant to osseointegrate.[xi] Nanoparticles can also be used to deliver drugs to the site of dental infections, using a targeted approach to reduce the risk of side-effects.[xii] Another exciting advancement of nanodentistry relates to the prevention of oral diseases. Nanosensors can be used to monitor patients’ oral health. They can detect the presence of harmful bacterial in real-time, providing clinicians with the information they need to intervene early and prevent disease progression.[xiii]
Further to this, nanomaterials provide the ability to seal dentinal tubules. Their exposure can cause patients to experience hypersensitivity, so this technology can enhance comfort and improve quality of life.[xiv] Some nanomaterials have shape memory properties, which are incredibly helpful in the field of orthodontics. When implemented, they can encourage faster and more efficient tooth movement for improved patient outcomes.[xv]
Looking to the future
This is an exciting time for those interested in dental technology. When we look to the future of nanodentistry, in particular, its application may help to improve clinical outcomes across the profession. In the very near future, it may be possible to use nanotubules and hollow spheres as drug delivery systems in the specific treatment of periodontal disease. These might include drugs with antifungal or antibacterial properties.[xvi] Nanobots might be used in the future to induce anaesthesia.[xvii]
Cellular level surgery may also be possible in the not-so-distant future. This is due to the invention of nanotweezers and nanoneedles. Nano-sized suturing needles, for example, could be used when surgical incisions are made on a cellular level.[xviii]
The advent of nanotechnology has already proved itself essential in the furthering of the profession and, with so much more untapped potential, it’s an exciting time to be a dentist. Technology is constantly evolving to help improve the care you provide your patients and, while not all avenues will be available to everyone, it is important to stay abreast of new innovations to provide patients with the best possible outcomes.
Staying up to date in a modern world
It is helpful to pair this advanced technology with the best dental equipment available. Clark Dental can help you find the most appropriate equipment for your practice’s needs. The team work with dental practices who are looking to improve their offerings, and upgrade their equipment to help them provide the highest quality care possible. Choose from high end treatment centres like the Dentsply Sirona Axano, or imaging systems like the Dentsply Axeos, in addition to the Cerec Primescan, Primemill, and Primeprint chairside system.
With nanodentistry a constantly developing area of the profession, keeping your practice up to date, and ensuring an open mind about the future of dentistry is essential. In doing so, you will be more aware of the latest techniques and technologies in order to provide your patients with the best possible care.
For more information call Clark Dental on 01268 733 146, email info@clarkdental.co.uk or visit www.clarkdental.co.uk
[i] Jandt, Klaus D., and David C. Watts. “Nanotechnology in dentistry: Present and future perspectives on dental nanomaterials.” Dental Materials 36.11 (2020): 1365-1378.
[ii] Feynman, Richard. “There’s plenty of room at the bottom.” Feynman and computation. CRC Press, 2018. 63-76.
[iii] Jandt, Klaus D., and David C. Watts. “Nanotechnology in dentistry: Present and future perspectives on dental nanomaterials.” Dental Materials 36.11 (2020): 1365-1378.
[iv] Dakhale R, Paul P, Achanta A, et al. (October 03, 2023) Nanotechnology Innovations Transforming Oral Health Care and Dentistry: A Review . Cureus 15(10): e46423. doi:10.7759/cureus.46423
[v] National Geographic. Nanotechnology. Accessed Jan 24. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/nanotechnology/
[vi] National Geographic. Nanotechnology. Accessed Jan 24. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/nanotechnology/
[vii] Dakhale R, Paul P, Achanta A, et al. (October 03, 2023) Nanotechnology Innovations Transforming Oral Health Care and Dentistry: A Review . Cureus 15(10): e46423. doi:10.7759/cureus.46423
[viii] Jonas Wilson, D. What is nanodentistry? Accessed Jan 24. https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Nanodentistry.aspx
[ix] Jonas Wilson, D. What is nanodentistry? Accessed Jan 24. https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Nanodentistry.aspx
[x] Singh, D. Nanotechnology in Dentistry. Royal Dental. Accessed Jan 24. https://royalimplant.com/blogs/exploring-nanotechnology-in-dentistry/
[xi] Singh, D. Nanotechnology in Dentistry. Royal Dental. Accessed Jan 24. https://royalimplant.com/blogs/exploring-nanotechnology-in-dentistry/
[xii] Singh, D. Nanotechnology in Dentistry. Royal Dental. Accessed Jan 24. https://royalimplant.com/blogs/exploring-nanotechnology-in-dentistry/
[xiii] Singh, D. Nanotechnology in Dentistry. Royal Dental. Accessed Jan 24. https://royalimplant.com/blogs/exploring-nanotechnology-in-dentistry/
[xiv] Dakhale R, Paul P, Achanta A, et al. (October 03, 2023) Nanotechnology Innovations Transforming Oral Health Care and Dentistry: A Review . Cureus 15(10): e46423. doi:10.7759/cureus.46423
[xv] Dakhale R, Paul P, Achanta A, et al. (October 03, 2023) Nanotechnology Innovations Transforming Oral Health Care and Dentistry: A Review . Cureus 15(10): e46423. doi:10.7759/cureus.46423
[xvi] Jonas Wilson, D. What is nanodentistry? Accessed Jan 24. https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Nanodentistry.aspx
[xvii] Jonas Wilson, D. What is nanodentistry? Accessed Jan 24. https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Nanodentistry.aspx
[xviii] Jonas Wilson, D. What is nanodentistry? Accessed Jan 24. https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Nanodentistry.aspx
