Scientific update on nanoparticles in dentistry

Nanoparticles having a size from 1 to 100 nm are present in nature and are successfully used in many products of daily life. In dental materials, nanoparticles are typically embedded but they may also exist as by-products from milling processes. Possible adverse effects of nanoparticles have gained increased interest, with the lungs being the main target organ. Exposure to nanoparticles in the dental laboratory is addressed by legal regulations. In dental practice, nanoparticles are mainly produced by intra-oral grinding/polishing and removal of materials, by wear of restorations or release from dental implants. Based on worst-case mass-based calculations, the additional risk as a result of exposure to nanoparticles is considered to be low. However, more research is needed, especially on vulnerable groups (patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). An assessment of risks for the environment is not possible because of lack of data. Exposure-reduction measures mainly include avoidance of abrasive processes (for example, by proper sculpturing), cooling by the use of water spray and sufficient ventilation of treatment areas.