Enhanced Antibacterial Dental Compositions with Surface-Functionalized Nitrogen-Doped TiO2 Nanoparticles

The present inventive concept relates to improved dental compositions and methods that incorporate surface-functionalized nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanoparticles to enhance biofilm inhibition and antibacterial efficacy, addressing the limitations of existing dental materials in combating oral diseases.

The original patent disclosed dental compositions comprising nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanoparticles, which, despite their antibacterial properties, still faced limitations in effectively inhibiting biofilm formation. The present inventive concept addresses this limitation by introducing surface-functionalized nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanoparticles that enhance biofilm inhibition, thereby providing a more effective solution for combating oral diseases.

The new inventive concept encompasses dental compositions and methods that utilize surface-functionalized nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanoparticles, which are produced by modifying the surface of the nanoparticles with antibacterial peptides. These surface-functionalized nanoparticles exhibit enhanced biofilm inhibition and antibacterial efficacy compared to the original patent's nanoparticles. The inventive concept also includes methods for preparing these dental compositions, such as mixing the surface-functionalized nanoparticles with a curable resin material and a photoinitiator, and then curing the mixture using a visible light source with a wavelength of 400-450 nm. Additionally, the inventive concept comprises dental materials with improved antibacterial efficacy, achieved through the use of nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanoparticles with a particle size of less than 10 nm. Furthermore, the inventive concept includes dental adhesive compositions that incorporate these surface-functionalized nanoparticles to enhance the bonding strength between the adhesive and tooth surfaces.

The new claims introduce the novelty of surface-functionalized nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanoparticles, which provide enhanced biofilm inhibition and antibacterial efficacy. This inventive step is non-obvious compared to the original patent, as it requires a deep understanding of the interaction between the nanoparticles and antibacterial peptides to achieve the desired surface functionalization.

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different antibacterial peptides or surface functionalization methods to modify the nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanoparticles. Additionally, the inventive concept could be adapted for use in other biomedical applications, such as wound dressings or implantable devices, where antibacterial properties are desirable.

The enhanced antibacterial dental compositions and methods of the present inventive concept have significant commercial potential in the dental industry, particularly in the fields of restorative dentistry, orthodontics, and oral surgery. The market for these products is substantial, driven by the growing demand for effective solutions to combat oral diseases and improve oral health.