Nano Particles, Big Impact: The Future of Regenerative Dentistry - A Narrative Review.

Abstract

AIM: Nanotechnology is emerging as a powerful tool in regenerative dentistry by supporting biological repair of enamel, dentin, pulp, periodontal tissues and alveolar bone. This narrative review outlines how nanotechnology provides a versatile platform for achieving regenerative dentistry by enabling targeted remineralization, controlled therapeutic delivery, and biomimetic tissue regeneration. METHODS: This review synthesizes current evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies, material science research, and recent reviews. Relevant literature was identified through electronic searches in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science up to February 2026, focusing on publications that investigate the mechanisms, efficacy, and applications of nanoparticles in regenerative dental therapies. Search terms included (nanoparticle OR nano OR nanomaterial) AND (regeneration OR regenerative OR remineralization OR mineralization) AND (enamel OR dentin OR pulp OR gingiva OR periodontal ligament OR cementum OR alveolar bone OR dental OR tooth OR oral). RESULTS: A total of 71 representative publications were selected. These studies focused on the use of nanoparticles for hard tissue remineralization, scaffold-enhanced regeneration, targeted drug delivery, and antimicrobial action in dental contexts. The findings indicate that nanoparticles promote hard tissue remineralization through calcium phosphate and hydroxyapatite systems that diffuse into subsurface lesions and nucleate new mineral formation. For alveolar bone regeneration, hydroxyapatite and bioactive glass nanoparticles provide osteoconductive scaffolds and osteoinductive ion signaling. In periodontal and pulp regeneration, nanoparticle-enhanced scaffolds support stem cell proliferation and differentiation through controlled growth factor delivery. Antimicrobial nanoparticles, particularly silver and zinc oxide, provide multi-target biofilm disruption with reduced resistance risk. The evidence base is predominantly preclinical, and routine clinical application is not yet supported by available data. CONCLUSION: Nanoparticles support dental tissue regeneration through mechanisms such as controlled ion release, sustained growth factor delivery, and antimicrobial activity. Key challenges include ensuring long-term biocompatibility, controlling degradation and potential toxicity, and establishing clear regulatory pathways.

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