Gold nanoparticles: A powerful biosensor in oral medicine and dentistry

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have emerged as highly effective biosensing agents in oral diagnostics and therapeutic monitoring due to their unique optical, electronic, and surface properties. Their exceptional surface plasmon resonance enables sensitive detection of biomolecules associated with oral diseases, including cancer markers, bacterial antigens, and inflammatory proteins. Functionalized AuNPs can selectively bind to target molecules, allowing for real-time, non-invasive diagnostics through colorimetric assays, fluorescence quenching, and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). In clinical dentistry, AuNP-based biosensors facilitate early diagnosis of conditions such as periodontal disease, oral squamous cell carcinoma, and peri-implantitis. Their biocompatibility and chemical stability further support integration into smart diagnostic platforms and intraoral devices. As precision dentistry advances, gold nanoparticle biosensors hold promise for transforming point-of-care diagnostics, enabling timely and personalized interventions.