2020 | Iris Xiaoxue Yin, Jing Zhang, Irene Shuping Zhao, May Lei Mei, Quanli Li, Chun Hung Chu
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have shown broad antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties due to their large surface-to-volume ratio and ability to penetrate bacterial cell walls, disrupting cell membranes and causing cell death. Their antibacterial mechanism involves releasing silver ions that disrupt cell membranes, inhibit protein synthesis, and interfere with DNA replication. AgNPs are used in dentistry for various applications, including prosthetic treatment, restoration, endodontic treatment, orthodontic treatment, periodontal treatment, and dental implant treatment. They are incorporated into materials such as acrylic resins, composite resins, irrigating solutions, and titanium coatings to enhance antibacterial properties. AgNPs also show potential in preventing biofilm formation and improving the mechanical properties of dental materials. However, concerns about their environmental and biological safety remain, particularly regarding their potential toxicity and impact on the environment. Despite these concerns, AgNPs are considered safe for clinical use, with no systemic toxicity reported. Research continues to explore their applications and safety in dental treatments.Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have shown broad antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties due to their large surface-to-volume ratio and ability to penetrate bacterial cell walls, disrupting cell membranes and causing cell death. Their antibacterial mechanism involves releasing silver ions that disrupt cell membranes, inhibit protein synthesis, and interfere with DNA replication. AgNPs are used in dentistry for various applications, including prosthetic treatment, restoration, endodontic treatment, orthodontic treatment, periodontal treatment, and dental implant treatment. They are incorporated into materials such as acrylic resins, composite resins, irrigating solutions, and titanium coatings to enhance antibacterial properties. AgNPs also show potential in preventing biofilm formation and improving the mechanical properties of dental materials. However, concerns about their environmental and biological safety remain, particularly regarding their potential toxicity and impact on the environment. Despite these concerns, AgNPs are considered safe for clinical use, with no systemic toxicity reported. Research continues to explore their applications and safety in dental treatments.