Strong nanocomposites with Ca, PO(4), and F release for caries inhibition

J Dent Res. 2010 Jan;89(1):19-28. doi: 10.1177/0022034509351969.

Abstract

This article reviews recent studies on: (1) the synthesis of novel calcium phosphate and calcium fluoride nanoparticles and their incorporation into dental resins to develop nanocomposites; (2) the effects of key microstructural parameters on Ca, PO(4), and F ion release from nanocomposites, including the effects of nanofiller volume fraction, particle size, and silanization; and (3) mechanical properties of nanocomposites, including water-aging effects, flexural strength, fracture toughness, and three-body wear. This article demonstrates that a major advantage of using the new nanoparticles is that high levels of Ca, PO(4), and F release can be achieved at low filler levels in the resin, because of the high surface areas of the nanoparticles. This leaves room in the resin for substantial reinforcement fillers. The combination of releasing nanofillers with stable and strong reinforcing fillers is promising to yield a nanocomposite with both stress-bearing and caries-inhibiting capabilities, a combination not yet available in current materials.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Calcium Fluoride / administration & dosage*
  • Calcium Fluoride / chemistry
  • Calcium Phosphates / administration & dosage*
  • Calcium Phosphates / chemistry
  • Cariostatic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Cariostatic Agents / chemistry
  • Composite Resins / chemistry*
  • Composite Resins / therapeutic use
  • Dental Caries / prevention & control*
  • Dental Caries / therapy
  • Dental Restoration, Permanent / methods
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Fluorides / administration & dosage
  • Fluorides / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Nanocomposites / chemistry
  • Nanocomposites / therapeutic use*
  • Phosphates / administration & dosage
  • Phosphates / chemistry

Substances

  • Calcium Phosphates
  • Cariostatic Agents
  • Composite Resins
  • Phosphates
  • Calcium Fluoride
  • Fluorides