Dental biomaterials: where are we and where are we going?

This article reviews the current state of the art for restorative biomaterials by examining the roles of 1) truly biological biomaterials, with respect to the "near-future" of five to ten years, 2) traditional synthetic biomaterials, and 3) performance outcomes for biomaterials. Biological biomaterials are discussed in terms of tissue engineering and stem cell research, self-assembling system opportunities, and nanotechniques or technologies. Future developments for major areas of synthetic biomaterials are considered for bonding systems, composites, VLC curing, ceramics, and cements. Performance outcomes are discussed for all biomaterials in terms of safety, efficacy, and longevity of materials.