The Future of Biomaterials in Dentistry: Innovations in Drug Delivery and Regenerative Medicine

Advances in biomaterials and drug delivery systems are redefining modern dentistry, moving beyond traditional restorative approaches toward biologically guided regeneration. This review highlights the development of smart, multifunctional platforms such as nanoparticles, hydrogels, scaffolds, and additive manufacturing (AM) technologies that enable localized, controlled therapeutic delivery while promoting tissue repair. These innovations are transforming treatments across periodontics, oral oncology, endodontics, and pediatric care by offering site-specific action and enhanced biocompatibility. Stimuli-responsive materials and dual-function scaffolds are engineered to respond to environmental cues such as pH or enzymatic activity, providing on-demand drug release and supporting healing in dynamic oral environments. AM technologies further allow for the fabrication of patient-specific constructs with optimized architecture and mechanical properties. Despite promising preclinical and early clinical outcomes, several challenges persist, including concerns regarding long-term safety, biocompatibility, and regulatory complexities, particularly for nano-enabled and multifunctional systems. Standardized toxicity assessments and harmonized approval pathways are needed to facilitate clinical translation. This review critically examines current material strategies, technological platforms, and their therapeutic applications in dental medicine and addresses emerging safety considerations and regulatory frameworks. Collectively, these innovations represent a shift toward more personalized, regenerative, and minimally invasive oral healthcare solutions.