Nanoparticles in caries prevention: A review

Nanotechnology is the branch of engineering that uses molecular machines with precise structures that are less than or equal to 0.1 μm in size. The word nano denotes 10 to the power of minus nine or 1 billionth. Treatment options for dental caries have been extensively studied; among them, the role of nanoparticles is of recent interest. Nanoparticles have shown promising results in the field of caries prevention because of their unique physical, mechanical, and biological characteristics. Nanosized systems have distinctive properties due to their increased surface-to-volume ratio and increased bioavailability toward cells and tissues. Furthermore, improved surface area results in better mechanical interlocking of nanoparticles to the resin matrix. They prevent dental caries by antimicrobial, remineralizing, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Although many nanoparticles have been studied for their role in caries prevention, only a few materials which were extensively studied are included in this review.

Nanoparticles for the regulation of intestinal inflammation: opportunities and challenges

Prevalence of chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract is increasing, emerging as a public health challenge. Conventional drug delivery systems targeting the colon have improved the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. However, therapy frequently results in inconsistent efficacy and toxicity problems. Novel approaches based on nanoparticles offer several advantages over conventional dosage forms due to their ability to selectively target inflamed tissues. Several formulation efforts have been made in order to obtain increasingly selective nanosized systems, some with promising results in animal models of colitis. Despite all advances, no nanomedicines are yet approved for clinical use in inflammatory bowel disease. This review discusses the most recent efforts made toward the development of nanoparticles for regulating chronic intestinal inflammation.