Applications of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide in advanced dental materials and therapies

Abstract

The graphene family of nanomaterials acquired significant attention in the field of dentistry due to a range of interesting properties. Graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) are the major graphene derivatives that are widely used in dental applications. These derivatives exhibit excellent mechanical properties, superior biocompatibility, good antibacterial properties, extreme chemical stability, and favorable tribological characteristics, thus representing highly materials for dentistry. The amphiphilic nature of GO allows covalent and noncovalent modifications that are favorable for biomedical applications. Graphene can influence the differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and enhance the properties of other biomaterials. Here, we review the dental applications of GO or rGO with regards to antimicrobial activity, therapeutic drug delivery, restorative dentistry, implants, pulp regeneration, bone regeneration, periodontal tissue regeneration, biosensors, and tooth whitening.