Biomimetic materials and restorations

Biomimetic dental approach enhances the remaining tooth structures avoiding when possible destructive restorative treatments, such as crowns, endodontic therapies, and potential tooth extractions. Clinically, biomimetics refers to mimicking the physiognomies of a natural tooth repair of affected dentition through biomimetic procedures and materials. For example, to improve the osseointegration of dental implants, biomimetic-dental-implant coatings of calcium phosphate (Ca P) and hydroxyapatite (HA) have been investigated and implemented. Similarly, the biomimetic process is applied in adhesive-restorative materials that demonstrated aesthetics mimicking natural teeth and tooth morphology. During the last decades, the restorative approach has steadily evolved, progressing from mechanical retention to advanced adhesion. Composite-resin materials and adhesive dentistry have become valuable tools on this context. The principles of biomimetic dentistry impose introduction of advanced composite restorative materials to clinical practice, which should align with the nature and integrity of the tooth tissues.