Advances in Regenerative and Reparative Gels for Oral Applications—From Biomaterial Design to Clinical Practice

Abstract

Oral tissue regeneration is challenged by the diversity of dental tissues and by constant exposure to saliva, microbial biofilms, enzymatic activity, and mechanical loading. This review evaluated recent advances in regenerative and reparative hydrogels for periodontal and peri-implant tissues, the pulp–dentin complex, alveolar bone, extraction sockets, and oral mucosal wounds. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for studies published between January 2000 and September 2026, with earlier landmark studies included when relevant. Eligible in vitro, animal, and clinical studies were synthesized narratively because of substantial methodological heterogeneity. Hydrogels provided adaptable carriers and matrices with injectable, adhesive, degradable, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, angiogenic, and controlled-release functions. Advanced multifunctional systems produced promising regenerative effects, particularly in preclinical models. However, clinical evidence mainly concerned simpler topical or locally delivered gels and showed variable outcomes. Translation remains limited by inconsistent testing, insufficient simulation of oral conditions, sterilization-related changes, storage instability, manufacturing variability, and regulatory complexity. Future development should prioritize indication-specific design, standardized characterization, clinically relevant models, reproducible production, and long-term comparative trials. Hydrogels have considerable potential for oral tissue repair, but clinical value will depend on demonstrating safe, stable, practical, and reproducible benefits over existing treatments.