Biologic Materials for 21st Century Dentistry.

Course overview

Recent developments in resin technology have propelled the introduction of hydrophilic resins for the evolution of therapeutic dental products. These resins allow for the addition of biologically kind active components in order to positively influence pulpal health. One such innovative light cured resin based tricalcium/dicalcium silicate product is indicated for pulp protection and a recently developed dual cured resin based tri/dicalcium silicate material for pulpal therapy. Besides being very pulpally kind by preserving cell vitality, these new materials encourage dentin bridge formation, preserve the dentin hybrid layer and resorptive processes are hindered. In addition, these materials provide a more durable base upon which to place the restoration. For direct restorative treatment, biointeractive restorative materials have been significantly accepted by Pediatric Dental clinicians. For example, a dual cure, bulk fill, biologically active ion releasing restorative material is used by many pediatric dentists. Materials used for cementation of zirconium crowns in pediatric dentistry should also be ion releasing, that is, biointeractive. Filler materials have evolved and recent materials are not only ion reactive, but also may be anti-bacterial, reducing the risk of recurrent caries.