A Review on Novel Periodontal Functional Materials: Comprehensive Exploration of Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, and Tissue Regeneration Strategies

Academic Background and Research Significance

With the accelerating trend of global population aging, the concern for oral health issues is increasing. Periodontitis, as a common bacterial infectious disease, not only threatens the health of periodontal tissues but also has significant associations with systemic diseases. Traditional periodontal treatments, such as scaling and root planing (SRP) and pharmacological approaches, have shown effectiveness in controlling certain conditions to some extent. However, the intricate anatomical structure of the periodontium and the resilience of biofilms often hinder the complete elimination of pathogens and tissue regeneration. Additionally, frequent mechanical debridement may lead to problems such as tooth sensitivity, surface scratching, and re-aggregation of plaque. Thus, integrating novel functional biomaterials to form comprehensive treatment strategies has become a critical focus in periodontal disease management.

Furthermore, increasing research in recent years has uncovered a complex relationship between periodontitis and systemic diseases (e.g., diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease). This has further heightened the urgency to develop holistic treatment plans. In response to the current research landscape and clinical needs, the authors have compiled this review titled “New Advances in Periodontal Functional Materials Based on Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, and Tissue Regeneration Strategies.” Its aim is to compare and summarize the advantages of novel periodontal functional materials relative to traditional treatment methods, thereby advancing precise and efficient therapeutic approaches.

Source and Publication Information

This paper is co-authored by Haoyue Wu, Yuanfeng Li, Linqi Shi, Yong Liu, and Jing Shen. The authors are affiliated with institutions such as Nankai University School of Medicine, Tianjin Stomatological Hospital International VIP Dental Clinic, the Wenzhou Institute of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University. The article, a state-of-the-art review in the field of periodontal research, was published in Advanced Healthcare Materials in 2025.

Core Content and Key Insights

This review tackles three major challenges in treating periodontitis: persistent bacterial infections, unavoidable inflammatory responses, and irreversible damage to soft and hard periodontal tissues. It systematically discusses comprehensive strategies spanning antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and tissue regeneration approaches. By categorizing emerging materials and analyzing their design principles, mechanisms of action, and future potential, the authors emphasize the necessity and feasibility of integrating these materials for multifunctional, synergistic therapies.

1. Antibacterial Strategies and Material Design

1.1 Antibiotic Delivery Strategies

The paper provides an in-depth analysis of antibiotic delivery systems based on carriers such as microspheres, gels, films, peptides, and others. Microsphere delivery systems are lauded for their sustained drug release properties. For instance, Minocycline-loaded microspheres can deliver drugs consistently for up to seven days, significantly reducing the risk of local drug overdose and antibiotic resistance associated with conventional antibiotics. Gels, due to their soft texture and prolonged adhesion, are ideal drug carriers for periodontal applications. For instance, pva@cs@mtz injectable hydrogels loaded with metronidazole not only offer sustained drug release but also demonstrate exceptional adhesion in moist environments, making them highly effective in periodontal pockets.

In the film-based strategy, oral mucoadhesive films simulate tissue absorption, allowing rapid drug uptake along with sustained release capabilities. For example, dual-layer films offer the advantages of both immediate and sustained drug release. When combining Moxifloxacin with clove oil, a dual-layer film achieves immediate pain relief and extended antibacterial effects, demonstrating significant therapeutic potential. Additionally, peptide-based nanostructures, such as dual-compartment nanovesicles, destroy bacteria through membrane disruption mechanisms, enhancing antibacterial efficacy while reducing the required doses of antibiotics.

1.2 ROS-Based Antibacterial Strategies

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are leveraged in antibacterial strategies due to their ability to induce lipid peroxidation and DNA damage in bacteria. Chemical dynamic therapy (CDT) generates ROS via Fenton reactions within inflammatory microenvironments, effectively degrading resilient biofilms. Photodynamic therapy (PDT), using photosensitizers like Chlorin e6, activates ROS production through light catalysis to kill pathogens. The paper also evaluates the antibacterial potential of sonodynamic therapy (SDT), which activates sonosensitizers with ultrasound to optimize ROS production. Unlike PDT, SDT avoids the limitations of light source accessibility, making it a promising option for treating deep periodontal infections.

1.3 Gas Therapy and Microbial Regulation Strategies

Gas molecules such as nitric oxide (NO) have demonstrated significant antibacterial properties. Research focus has shifted toward precise delivery via multifunctional nanoplatforms. Probiotic therapy is also proposed as an alternative to antibiotics. By regulating microbial communities such as Streptococcus gordonii, probiotic therapy destabilizes pathogenic biofilms, reducing their adherence and growth.

2. Anti-inflammatory Strategies and Advances in Research

Given the close link between periodontitis-associated inflammation and oxidative stress, the paper systematically examines ROS-clearing strategies for anti-inflammatory treatment. Studies show that the introduction of exogenous antioxidants, such as Ru-porphyrin networks (Ru-Por-Net), or utilizing polydopamine-modified nanoparticles, can effectively balance ROS levels and improve the inflammatory microenvironment. Smart-responsive materials, such as N-acetylcysteine (NAC), exhibit potential in microenvironment-specific inflammation modulation.

3. Materials for Periodontal Tissue Regeneration

Tissue regeneration strategies include the design and application of guided bone regeneration (GBR) membranes and implant scaffolds. For example, bio-inspired membranes with optimized structures accelerate the repair of bone defects. Multifunctional scaffolds combining antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties show greater potential for restoring normal periodontal structures.

4. Synergistic Therapies and Clinical Integration

A single-treatment strategy often lacks efficacy, emphasizing the importance of combinational therapies. For example, combining PDT with antibiotics overcomes multidrug resistance by inhibiting efflux pump mechanisms in bacterial membranes. Similarly, the synergistic use of CDT and photothermal therapy enhances Fenton reaction efficiency and promotes biofilm dispersion.

Significance and Value of the Paper

In summary, this review systematically consolidates recent advancements in periodontal therapy, evaluating materials from antibacterial to tissue-regenerative applications. Its highlights include the innovative interdisciplinary design of materials, proposals for multifunctional synergistic therapies, and a deeper understanding of the complex etiology of periodontitis. By focusing on comprehensive treatments powered by novel biomaterials, the paper advances the development of precise and minimally invasive periodontal therapies.

This review holds significant scientific and clinical value, offering new directions for future research and innovative solutions for improving the quality of life for patients with periodontitis. With continued advancements in material science and medical technology, these novel therapeutic strategies are expected to see widespread clinical adoption.