New generation restorative dental biomaterials that modulate biofilm formation

The main reason for failure of current dental restorative materials is the development of secondary caries. This process is driven by the activity of a dysbiotic, pathogenic biofilm. A huge importance in causing the dysbiotic shift of an oral biofilm growing on dental materials can be given to a high fermentable sugar intake, and to the lack of buffering effect from the surface of “inert” restorative materials, such as resin-based composites1,. Bioactive dental materials are built on purpose to elicit a response both from the host and from the biofilm permanently colonizing its surfaces. Biomaterials can be designed to feature many properties, such as remineralization, antimicrobial or anti-adhesive activities. It is very difficult, however, to synthesize materials showing these activities and maintaining them over time3,. It is even harder to design bioactive materials that can additionally satisfy strength and durability requirements in a demanding environment such as the oral one. Biofilms can even modify that interface by progressively modifying materials’ surfaces or release kinetics .