Enhancing Oral Health with Natural Antimicrobials and Smart Materials

Importance of Effective Antimicrobial Agents in Dentistry

The rise of antibiotic resistance presents a significant challenge in modern medicine, particularly in the field of dentistry. The increasing ineffectiveness of conventional antibiotics against resistant bacterial strains necessitates the exploration of alternative therapeutic strategies. A study highlights that antibiotic resistance currently affects various bacterial species, including Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, leading to complications in dental treatments that rely on these antibiotics (1). This situation calls for innovative approaches utilizing natural antimicrobial agents and smarter materials that can enhance oral health without contributing to resistance.

Natural products, such as propolis, have garnered attention due to their broad-spectrum antibacterial properties. Propolis, a resinous substance collected by bees, contains over 300 bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils (2). These compounds demonstrate significant antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens, making propolis a valuable candidate for natural antibacterial solutions in dentistry. Moreover, the increasing awareness of patients regarding the safety and efficacy of natural agents further supports the integration of these compounds into dental products.

Smart dental materials represent another frontier in enhancing oral health. Traditional dental materials often lack the ability to respond dynamically to the oral environment, leading to issues such as degradation and failure of restorations (3). By incorporating stimuli-responsive properties into dental materials, researchers aim to create products that can adapt to pH changes, moisture levels, and bacterial presence. This adaptability not only enhances the longevity of dental restorations but also promotes better oral health outcomes by actively combating microbial growth.

Role of Propolis in Natural Antibacterial Solutions

Propolis has been extensively studied for its antibacterial properties, particularly in relation to oral health. It acts as a natural barrier against various pathogens, including Streptococcus mutans, which is a primary contributor to dental caries (4). The bioactive compounds present in propolis exhibit dual action: they not only inhibit the growth of bacteria but also modulate the immune response, potentially reducing inflammation in periodontal diseases (5).

Recent studies indicate that propolis can enhance the efficacy of dental materials by improving their antimicrobial properties. For example, incorporating propolis extract into dental adhesives and composites has shown promising results in reducing bacterial colonization on the surfaces of dental restorations (6). This incorporation not only prolongs the lifespan of the dental materials but also contributes to a healthier oral environment by minimizing the risk of secondary infections.

In addition to its direct antibacterial effects, propolis has been shown to promote tissue healing and reduce the symptoms associated with oral diseases. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help in managing conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis, thereby improving overall oral health (7). Given its multifaceted benefits, propolis emerges as a powerful natural agent that can be integrated into various dental products, ranging from mouth rinses to restorative materials.

Advancements in Smart Dental Materials for Oral Health

The integration of smart materials in dentistry is revolutionizing the approach to oral care. These materials can respond to environmental changes in the oral cavity, such as fluctuations in pH, temperature, and moisture. By adapting to these conditions, smart materials can enhance their therapeutic effects while minimizing potential adverse reactions (8).

One prominent example of smart dental materials includes bioactive glass composites that release ions like calcium and phosphate in response to acidic conditions, which are characteristic of caries (9). This release can aid in remineralizing enamel and dentin, providing a preventive measure against caries progression. Moreover, these materials can be engineered to release therapeutic agents, such as fluoride or antimicrobial compounds, in a controlled manner, thereby prolonging their protective effects (10).

Advancements in nanotechnology have further propelled the development of smart dental materials. Nanoparticles, such as titanium dioxide and silver nanoparticles, can be embedded within dental resins and composites to enhance their antibacterial properties (11). This incorporation not only provides a sustained release of antimicrobial agents but also improves the mechanical properties and longevity of the restorative materials.

Research is ongoing in developing stimuli-responsive materials that can release therapeutic agents upon detection of bacterial biofilms or acidic environments. Such innovations can significantly improve the efficacy of dental products, leading to better patient outcomes (12). The future of dental materials lies in their ability to not only restore function but also actively promote oral health.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Chitosan/PEO Nanofibers

Recent studies have focused on the use of chitosan and polyethylene oxide (PEO) nanofibers in creating advanced wound dressings with enhanced antibacterial properties. Chitosan, a biopolymer derived from chitin, possesses inherent antibacterial properties and biocompatibility, making it an ideal candidate for use in dental applications (13). When combined with PEO, the resulting nanofibers exhibit improved mechanical properties and increased surface area, which are essential for effective wound healing.

In one study, chitosan/PEO nanofibers were incorporated with propolis extract, further enhancing their antimicrobial activity against common oral pathogens such as Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus (14). The incorporation of propolis not only improved the antibacterial effects of the nanofibers but also demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, as evidenced by cell viability studies conducted on human fibroblast cells (15).

The study evaluated the physical and mechanical properties of the nanofibers using various characterization techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The SEM images confirmed the uniform morphology of the nanofibers, while FTIR analysis indicated the successful incorporation of propolis into the nanofibers, showcasing the potential of these materials as effective wound dressings in dental applications (16).

Furthermore, the swelling properties of chitosan/PEO nanofibers indicated their capability to absorb wound exudates, which is crucial for maintaining a moist environment conducive to healing (17). The antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of the nanofibers were assessed using various methodologies, including the disk diffusion method and the Congo red agar plate method, demonstrating significant inhibitory effects against biofilm formation by tested bacterial strains (18).

Addressing Dental Wear with Innovative Toothpaste Formulations

Tooth wear is a multifactorial process influenced by various factors, including dietary habits, oral hygiene practices, and the abrasiveness of dental products. Traditional whitening toothpastes often contain abrasive agents that can cause enamel erosion and dentin wear over time (19). Therefore, the development of innovative toothpaste formulations that minimize wear while effectively whitening teeth is essential.

Recent advancements in toothpaste formulations include the incorporation of zirconia particles, which have shown promise in enhancing the whitening efficacy while reducing the abrasive potential (20). A study evaluated the abrasive capacity of whitening toothpaste containing varying concentrations of zirconia, revealing that lower concentrations resulted in minimal wear on dentin surfaces, while higher concentrations led to significant weight loss and increased roughness (21).

The research underscores the need for a balanced approach in formulating whitening toothpastes that effectively remove stains without compromising tooth integrity. By optimizing the concentration of abrasive agents, manufacturers can create products that deliver effective whitening results while safeguarding dental health (22).

The study also emphasizes the importance of educating consumers on the potential effects of toothpaste abrasiveness and the significance of choosing products that maintain the health of both enamel and dentin. Ongoing research and development in this area will play a crucial role in shaping the future of oral care products.

Conclusion

The exploration of natural antimicrobials and smart materials presents a promising avenue for enhancing oral health. Propolis, with its multifaceted benefits, offers a natural alternative to conventional antibacterial agents, while the advancement of smart dental materials paves the way for innovative treatment strategies. The incorporation of chitosan/PEO nanofibers and the development of novel toothpaste formulations highlight the potential for improving patient outcomes through targeted interventions. As research continues, the integration of these approaches in dental practice will be crucial in addressing the challenges posed by antibiotic resistance and enhancing overall oral health.

FAQ

What is propolis and how does it benefit oral health?
Propolis is a natural resin produced by bees that has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It can enhance oral health by preventing bacterial growth and reducing inflammation in periodontal diseases.

What are smart dental materials?
Smart dental materials are designed to respond dynamically to changes in the oral environment, such as pH and moisture levels, allowing them to provide therapeutic effects while minimizing adverse reactions.

How do chitosan/PEO nanofibers enhance wound healing?
Chitosan/PEO nanofibers exhibit excellent biocompatibility and antibacterial properties. Their structure allows them to absorb wound exudates, maintain moisture, and prevent bacterial infections, promoting faster healing.

Why is toothpaste formulation important for dental health?
The formulation of toothpaste is crucial because it can influence tooth wear. Innovative formulations aim to provide effective stain removal while minimizing abrasion to protect enamel and dentin.

How can I choose the right toothpaste for whitening?
When choosing toothpaste for whitening, look for products that balance effective stain removal with low abrasiveness. Avoid those with high concentrations of harsh abrasives to protect your dental health.

References

1. Shen, J., Sun, J., Lin, S., & Du, J. (2025). Association of leukocyte telomere length with periodontal attachment loss based on a cross-sectional study. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-025-05607-0

2. Elwood, R. W., & McGaw, I. (2025). A History of Pain Studies and Changing Attitudes to the Welfare of Crustaceans. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15030445

3. Martin, M., Gowda, S., Foster Page, L., & Thomson, W. M. (2024). Oral health-related quality of life in Northland Māori children and adolescents with Polynesian amelogenesis imperfecta. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.3389/fdmed.2024.1485419

4. Synthesis of novel titania nanoparticles using corn silky hair fibres and their role in developing a smart restorative material in dentistry. (2025). Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.csbj.2025.01.005

5. Investigation of biocompatibility and antibacterial properties of electrospun chitosan/polyethylene oxide -based scaffolds containing propolis extract against Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. (2025). Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e42228

6. Correlations Between Gut Microbiota Composition, Medical Nutrition Therapy, and Insulin Resistance in Pregnancy—A Narrative Review. (2025). Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26031372

7. In vitro evaluation and comparison of the abrasive capacity of zirconia whitening toothpaste at different concentrations on the radicular dentin surface of human teeth. (2025). Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e41867