Injectable and 3D-printed hydrogels: State-of-the-art platform for bone regeneration in dentistry

Bone tissue needs complex systems to return to its standard shape and function. During bone mending, cells that release cytokines, growth factors, and substances that cause inflammation in the area of the hole will draw nearby stem cells to move, multiply, and change into bone-forming cells. When the body cannot fully recover the destroyed tissue, bioactive functional scaffolds may be used to help the bone mend. Bone defect in dental becomes a prevalent maxillofacial disease, resulting in mandibular dysfunctions and huge psychological burdens to the patients. Considering the routine presence of oral contaminations and aesthetic restoration of facial structures, the current clinical treatments are limited and incapable of reconstructing the structural integrity and regeneration, spurring the need for cost-effective dental bone tissue engineering. Hydrogel systems possess great merit for dental bone tissue reconstruction with precise involvement of cells and bioactive factors. This study reviews hydrogel-related dental bone tissue engineering. It provides an update on the advanced fabrication of hydrogels with improved mechanical properties, antibacterial ability, injectable form, and 3D bioprinted hydrogel constructs. Exploring advanced hydrogel systems will lay a solid foundation for a bright future with more biocompatible, effective, and personalized treatment in mandibular reconstruction.