Bioactive Glass in Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Bioactive glass (BAG) has become an innovative silica-based dental material that is capable of regulating biological reactions at the interfaces of hard and soft tissues. Bioactive glass has changed from being a bone-bonding implant material to a dental biomaterial that may be used in restorative dentistry, endodontics, periodontology and regenerative treatments. On the other hand, BAG undergoes surface-mediated ionic dissolution in physiological fluids, which leads to the creation of hydroxycarbonate apatite (HCA). This HCA chemically integrates with mineralized tissues. Modern changes include ion replacement, alkali-free formulations, nanoparticle engineering, mesoporous designs and drug-loading methods, which have greatly increased its ability to work. Current review analysis looks closely at the physicochemical foundation, synthesis methods, structural categorization and mechanistic pathways that explain bioactive glass bioactivity. It combines new data with antibiotic and antimicrobial behavior, immunomodulatory potential, remineralization kinetics and role in tissue regeneration. We also look at how well adhesive systems, dentifrices, restorative composites, pulp capping materials, intracanal medicaments, obturation systems and root canal sealers work in the lab and in the long term. Limitations including brittleness, strength degradation at high filler loading and insufficient longitudinal clinical trials are discussed. Finally, future translational directions including smart ion-releasing systems, injectable scaffolds, peptide-functionalized particles and regenerative endodontic constructs are explored. So, bioactive glass represents a cornerstone in biomimetic dentistry and regenerative endodontics and ongoing materials innovation may redefine future therapeutic standards.