strength, modulus of elasticity, translucency and aesthetics of the restorative com-

posite resins are shown in Fig. 10.3.

Nanofillers of metals (like silver, gold, titanium, zinc, etc.) and their metal oxides

are known to exhibit antimicrobial properties due to their nano size and high surface

area to volume ratio, allowing more significant contact with the bacteria. Shvero

et al. (2015) reported quaternary ammonium polyethyleneimine (QPEI) to have an

extended antibacterial effect against various oral pathogens, such as Enterococcus

faecalis, Streptococcus mutans and Actinomyces viscosus. It is also found to be

stable within the matrix and does not leach out into the surrounding environment.

This added nanoparticle’s bactericidal action is implicated in yielding restorative

materials with significantly lower incidences of failure attributed to secondary caries

(Bayda et al. 2019; Iftekhar 2019).

A recent modification of composite resins has been the addition of bioactive glass

nanoparticles, which has been successfully used in bone regeneration for many

years. The regenerative properties of bioactive glass are further enhanced by

incorporating fluoride and silver elements, making it highly suitable for tooth

restorations.

Nanoparticles added

to restorative

materials for

improved mechanical

and antimicrobial

properties

Amorphous

calcium

phosphate

Octacalcium

phosphate

(OCP)

Quaternary

ammonium

polyethyle

nimine

(QPEI)

Oxides of zinc/

gold/ titanium

Bioactive glass

Dicalcium

phosphate

anhydrous

(DCPA)

Monocalcium

phosphate

Fig. 10.3 Recent advancements in restorative materials

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