Knowing the Unknown: A Review on Nanotechnology in Orthodontics

Abstract

Nanotechnology is the structuring and manipulation of matter at nanoscale for the creation of new particles and devices. The applications of nanotechnology are being explored in various arenas including health care. The use of this technology aims to improvise the quality of health care being rendered to the patients. Nanotechnology has paved its way into various specialties of dentistry including orthodontics. The goal of these innovations and research in this field is to improve human life and health. The merging of nanotechnology with orthodontics helps the clinicians to a great extent in improving the quality of patient care and its applications. This article aims to summarize and describe the most recent advancements and well-known nanotechnological innovations in the field of orthodontics and the use of new nanomaterials, nano devices, nano LIPUS, nano particles and nano sensors incorporation of the same to the arsenal of Orthodontics.

Emerging Applications of Nanotechnology in Dentistry

“…The use of nanorobots and nanoelectromechanical systems is useful in accelerating tooth repair and movement strategies, and it is supported by certain animal studies [27]. Similarly, studies have elaborated on the use of nanoparticle-based delivery systems (elastomeric ligatures) by realizing anti-cariogenic fluoride, bringing about anticancer use, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory effects in the dental matrix [28]. Similarly, smart brackets with nanomechanical sensor technology proved to be more effective compared to conventional bracket devices, owing to the increased efficiency and timer perseverance of nanorobots [29].…”

“…Table 3 describes some nonconventional nanoparticles that are being explored for dental applications [21][22][23][24][25][26]. Table 4 shows the nanotube-based nanomaterials that are currently being explored for dental applications [9,[26][27][28][29]. Classic glass ionomers combined with nanoparticles create nano-glass ionomers.…”