Nanomaterials and Human Health: Nano-biomaterials in Dentistry

Nanotechnology provides a new alternative and a possibly superior approach to diagnosis and treatment of oral pathologies. However, a vast majority of materials exposed to dynamic environment of oral cavity, mechanical preparation by dental burs may or other physical and chemical factors may release nanoparticles or their complexes into oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. Moreover, preparation of nanomaterials or inappropriate handling may result in inhalation of nanoparticles into nasal cavity or eyes, increasing the risk of adverse, longitudinal toxic effects. The present article discusses the potential limitations and toxicological effects of dental nanomaterials to human organism.