Dental resin-composites are comprised of a photo-polymerizable organic resin matrix and mixed with silane-treated reinforcing inorganic fillers. In the development of the composites, the three main components can be modified: the inorganic fillers, the organic resin matrix, and the silane coupling agents. The aim of this article is to review recent studies of the development of dental nanocomposites and their clinical applications. In nanocomposites, nanofillers are added and distributed in a dispersed form or as clusters. For increasing the mineral content of the tooth, calcium and phosphate ion-releasing composites and fluoride-releasing nanocomposites were developed by the addition of DCPA-whiskers or TTCP-whiskers or by the use of calcium fluoride or kaolinite. For enhancing mechanical properties, nanocomposites reinforced with nanofibers or nanoparticles were investigated. For reducing polymerization shrinkage, investigators modified the resin matrix by using methacrylate and epoxy functionalized nanocomposites based on silsesquioxane cores or epoxy-resin-based nanocomposites. The effects of silanization were also studied. Clinical consideration of light-curing modes and mechanical properties of nanocomposites, especially strength durability after immersion, was also addressed.
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