Objective: In the context of minimally invasive dentistry and tissue conservation, bioactive products are valuable. The aim of this review was to identify, clarify, and classify the methodologies used to quantify the bioactive glasses bioactivity.
Methods: Specific search strategies were performed in electronic databases: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus. Papers were selected after a review of their title, abstract, and full text. The following data were then examined for final selection: BAG investigated, objectives, criteria, methods, and outcomes.
Results: Sixty-one studies published from 2001 to 2019, were included. The bioactivity of BAG can be evaluated in vitro in contact with solutions, enamel, dentin, or cells. Other studies have conducted in vivo evaluation by BAG contact with dentin and dental pulp. Studies have used various analysis techniques: evaluation of apatite with or without characterization or assessment of mechanical properties. Reprecipitation mechanisms and pulp cell stimulation are treated together through the term 'bioactivity'.
Significance: Based on these results, we suggested a classification of methodologies for a better understanding of the bioactive properties of BAG. According to all in vitro studies, BAG appear to be bioactive materials. No consensus has been reached on the results of in vivo studies, and no comparison has been conducted between protocols to assess the bioactivity of other bioactive competitor products.
Keywords: Bioactive glasses; Bioactivity; Dentin; Enamel; Remineralization; Restorative dentistry.
Copyright © 2020 The Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.