Use of Nanotechnology in the Treatment of Periodontitis and Peri-Implantitis: A Narrative Review

Nanotechnology has gained increasing attention as a promising approach for the management of periodontitis and peri-implantitis, providing innovative strategies for targeted drug delivery, antimicrobial action, and tissue regeneration. Nanostructured materials and nanocomposites have been developed to transport therapeutic agents directly to diseased sites, improving local therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects. Additionally, certain nanoparticles, such as silver, chitosan-, and titanium-based nanomaterials, exhibit potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, thereby helping to control microbial colonization, disrupt biofilm development, and modulate host responses. Nanotechnology also enables the functionalization of dental and implant surfaces to prevent bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation, two of the main factors associated with the onset and progression of these infections. Another important application is photodynamic therapy, in which nanoparticle-based delivery systems enhance the stability and targeted release of photosensitizers, allowing the selective destruction of pathogenic bacteria while causing minimal damage to surrounding tissues. Beyond its antimicrobial potential, nanotechnology has also demonstrated considerable promise in promoting periodontal tissue regeneration and improving implant surface bioactivity, highlighting its multifunctional role in contemporary periodontal therapy. Despite these promising advancements, several challenges remain. These include concerns regarding long-term safety, cytotoxicity, biocompatibility, and clinical translation, highlighting the need for well-designed clinical studies and extended follow-up before widespread implementation.