History of dental biomaterials: biocompatibility, durability and still open challenges

Abstract

Objective This review paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the historical evolution of dental biomaterials, as well as to understand the reasons behind their biocompatibility and to identify the key factors that have influenced their development and use over the past 5000 years. Data sources The sources for this review were primarily obtained through Scopus and other online databases, such as Google Scholar, which were searched for relevant publications spanning clinical, archeological, and materials science literature. In cases where no other sources were available, information was gathered through consultation with museums and owners of private collections. Study selection Our search was conducted using specific materials and ages as keywords and, for the last two centuries, retrieving scientific articles written at that time of the first development and commercialization. When possible, secondary sources such as literature reviews were prioritized, while not peer-reviewed documents were utilized only when no other sources were available. References with varying perspective and findings were included, also when presented contradictory or controversial information. Conclusions In this review, clinical, archeological and chemical data could be merged into a comprehensive analysis of the historical evolution of the concept of biocompatibility in dental materials. The results of this review emphasize the significant advances that have been made in the field of dental biomaterials in terms of biocompatibility, from the use of gold and other metals in ancient civilizations to the development of modern materials such as resin composites and ceramics. Clinical significance By analyzing the development and use of dental biomaterials over the centuries from clinical, archeological and chemical perspectives, the review sheds light on the key factors that have shaped our understanding of biocompatibility in dental materials and the importance of this concept in the success of dental restorations.

Application and Future Utilization of Shellac in Orthodontics: A Systematic Review

“…The use of shellac in orthodontics also mirrored broader trends in dental material science. As noted by Marin (2023), the preference for natural materials in the early days of dentistry was largely due to their biocompatibility and lower cost [26]. Shellac, being a natural resin, was well-aligned with these preferences.…”

“…The transition from shellac to more contemporary materials in orthodontics reflects the technological advancements and growing scientific understanding of material properties. The mid-20th century ushered in a new era of synthetic materials, driven by the need for improved durability, strength, and patient comfort [26]. The advent of acrylic resins and, later, the development of composite materials marked a significant shift in orthodontic practices [37].…”

“…The advent of acrylic resins and, later, the development of composite materials marked a significant shift in orthodontic practices [37]. These materials offered enhanced bonding strength, reduced treatment times, and greater ease of manipulation than shellac [26].…”

Design Principles for Immunomodulatory Biomaterials

“…Further, the ancient Egyptians and indigenous Maya peoples engineered crude materials from plants and animals for medical applications. For example, the ancient Egyptians replaced amputated great toes of the right foot with a prosthetic constructed from leather and wood (Figure a), while the Maya people fabricated seashells into nacre teeth that integrated seamlessly into the bone. − These examples seem trivial and crude compared to the biomaterial-based implants, sutures, and prosthetics (Figures b,c) used in contemporary medical practice. , Still, they illustrate the historical context behind using materials to repair or augment body functions.…”

Behavior of Two Dental Alloys as Ingot and Cast Crown in Artificial Saliva

“…Simple metal wires or plates were joined to false teeth in these early prostheses, which were simple and straightforward. But the widespread use of metal frameworks in dentistry did not start until the 18th century [1]. French dentist Pierre Fauchard developed a technique in 1728 for attaching prosthetic teeth to neighboring healthy teeth using gold wire.…”