The Application of Nanomaterials for the Rescue of a Single Compromised Tooth with a Multidisciplinary Approach: Case Report and Scoping Review

A nanomaterial is defined as an insoluble or biopersistent and intentionally manufactured material with one or more external dimensions, or an internal structure on the scale from 1 nm to 100 nm. They are commonly considered as those materials in which the shape and molecular composition at a nanometer scale can be controlled. This extension of nanotechnology in the field of dentistry is termed “Nanodentistry”, and it has expanded to every single branch of dentistry, such as restorative, endodontic, prosthetic, and periodontology.

The principal aim of the study was to report a noteworthy case of a 35-year-old male whose central incisor with Class III Heithersay EICR (external invasive cervical resorption) was managed through a multidisciplinary approach and the employment of various nanomaterials. Furthermore, a narrative review was also performed to investigate the state of the art of nanomaterials in different fields of modern dentistry, analyzing their application and characteristics for the recovery of a single compromised tooth. The primary sources were selected through the use of search engines, such as Pubmed (Medline), EBSCO, and Cochrane Library.

Using the MeSH and non-MeSH terms and applying the search strategy previously described, a total of 442 articles were selected through search engines, such as Pubmed (Medline), EBSCO, and Cochrane Library. Titles and abstracts were screened and then full texts of all potentially relevant publications were obtained and reviewed independently. Through the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 20 articles were selected.

The present case report, as well as the review of the literature, emphasize that nowadays, the adhesive systems available allow a minimally invasive treatment, which also ensures excellent aesthetic and functional results avoiding the loss of a tooth with a high aesthetic value. Interactions between different biomaterials and nanoparticles (bioceramics, sealers, nanocomposites, radicular dentin, and adhesive cementation) and correct tissue response have been reported. Further studies are needed on the topic.