Zinc-doped nanoparticles tied to high performance in restorative dentistry: Study

A group of researchers from Spain conducted a study to state the different applications and the effectiveness of polymeric zinc-doped nanoparticles to achieve dentin remineralization.

The researchers conducted a thorough literature search using electronic databases, such as PubMed, MEDLINE, DIMDI, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science. A narrative exploratory review was undertaken.

The researchers found that:

· Polymeric nanospheres (NPs) were efficiently loaded with zinc. Polymeric nanospheres (NPs) sequestered calcium and phosphate in the presence of silicon, and remained effectively embedded at the hybrid layer.

· NPs incorporation did not alter bond strength and inhibited MMP-mediated dentin collagen degradation. Zn-loaded Polymeric nanospheres (NPs) remineralized the hybrid layer inducing a generalized low-carbonate substitute apatite precipitation, chemically crystalline with some amorphous components, and an increase in mechanical properties were also promoted.

· Viscoelastic analysis determined that dentin infiltrated with Zn-loaded Polymeric nanospheres (NPs) released the stress by breaking the resin-dentin interface and creating specific mineral formations in response to the energy dissipation. Bacteria were scarcely encountered at the resin-dentin interface.

· The combined antibacterial and remineralizing effects, when Zn-loaded Polymeric nanospheres (NPs) were applied, reduced biofilm formation. Zn-loaded Polymeric nanospheres (NPs) application at both cervical and radicular dentin attained the lowest microleakage and also promoted durable sealing ability.

· The new zinc-based salt minerals generated covered the dentin surface totally occluding cracks, porosities and dentinal tubules.

· Thus, the researchers concluded that Zn-loaded Polymeric nanospheres (NPs) are proposed for effective dentin remineralization and tubular occlusion.

· Zn-NPs do not alter dentin bond strength, inhibit MMP and perform as antibacterial.

· Zn-doped NPs promote amorphous and stoichiometric apatites formation at dentin.

Reference:

A study titled, "Polymeric zinc-doped nanoparticles for high performance in restorative dentistry" by Toledano M et. al published in the Journal of Dentistry.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdent.2021.103616