Nanotechnology, defined as the manipulation of materials at the nanometer scale (1–100 nm), has introduced a paradigm shift in restorative dentistry by enabling the development of materials with enhanced mechanical, biological, and functional properties. Conventional restorative materials often fail due to polymerization shrinkage, wear, marginal leakage, and secondary caries. Nanotechnology-based restorative materials, including nanocomposites, nano-adhesives, nano-ionomers, antibacterial nanoparticles, and remineralizing agents, aim to overcome these limitations by interacting with tooth structure and oral tissues at the molecular level. This review critically evaluates the applications and efficacy of nanotechnology in restorative dentistry through a PRISMA-guided literature search. Evidence suggests that nano-enabled materials demonstrate superior mechanical properties, improved aesthetics, antibacterial potential, and bioactivity compared to conventional materials. However, long-term clinical evidence and standardized safety assessments remain limited. Further high-quality clinical trials are essential for widespread clinical translation.

Keywords
Nanotechnology; Restorative Dentistry; Nanocomposites; Nano-adhesives; Antibacterial Nanoparticles; Dental Biomaterials