The future of maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation

The gap

Evidence profile

Stated in the future work section of the source papers, classified as general, spanning 4 journals.

Supporting evidence — 4 representative gaps

• Bioglass 45S5 in dentistry: Current evidence, clinical applications and future perspectives (Review) (2026) · World Academy of Sciences Journal · doi

  The future of Bioglass 45S5 in dentistry is likely to be shaped by several converging developments. Additive manufac‑ turing (3D printing) of personalized 45S5‑polymer scaffolds tailored to individual anatomical defects is advancing rapidly from proof‑of‑concept to clinical feasibility, with early case series reporting successful integration in mandibular defect reconstruction (49,50). In parallel, the integration of 3D bioprinting with organoid culture technology holds potential for constructing more physiologically faithful tissue models that better replicate the complex cell‑matrix interactions of oral tissues; recent advances in this domain may inform future scaffold design strategies for dental regeneration (51). The integration of growth factors, including recombinant human BMP‑2, platelet‑derived growth factor‑BB and enamel matrix derivative, into 45S5 mesoporous carriers may enable combi‑ natorial regenerative strategies with synergistic effects that surpass those of individual agents (52). Nano‑scale 45S5 formulations are opening new frontiers in preventive and restorative dentistry. Nano‑45S5‑containing composites, adhesives and glass ionomers that actively remin‑ eralize the tooth‑restoration interface may fundamentally alter secondary caries management and improve restoration longevity. Similarly, smart delivery systems exploiting the pH‑responsive dissolution of 45S5, releasing therapeutic ions selectively in response to acidic cariogenic challenge, represent a promising direction for autonomous preventive materials (53). In regenerative endodontics, 45S5‑based scaffolds supporting dental pulp stem cell (DPSC) homing, proliferation and differentiation may enable biological pulp regeneration in immature teeth with necrotic pulps, providing an alternative to apexification procedures. Since the isolation and character‑ ization of postnatal human DPSCs (54), preliminary studies have shown that these cells cultured on BG scaffolds undergo odontogenic differentiation and form mineralized matrices both in vitro and in vivo. Finally, the integration of antibacterial ion‑doped 45S5 formulations into implant surfaces and regenerative membranes may address the unmet clinical need for infec‑ tion‑resistant biomaterials in peri‑implantitis and post‑surgical infection management, representing one of the most impactful near‑term translational opportunities.

  generalstated in future workevidence 5/5
  Keywords: integration scaffolds regenerative future dentistry individual clinical cell matrix strategies dental regeneration growth human enable
• Challenges and opportunities in generating microvasculature using bioprinting techniques (2026) · npj Biomedical Innovations · doi

  Fig. 4 | Components of a bio-3D printer. a Bio-3D printer hardware. Adapted under the Creative Commons CC BY license from42. b Control unit. Fig. 5 | Fabrication of cellular constructs using a bio-3D printer. A a Schematic diagram of tubular tissue conversion into a patch. b Cellular patch. Reproduced with permission from43. Copyright 2018, Elsevier. B a Design data of a trachea-like tube model. b Multi-layered trachea-like construct. Reproduced with permission from44. Copyright 2019, John Wiley and Sons. C a Design data of an articular surface. b Articular surface construct. Adapted under the Creative Commons CC BY license from45. D a Design data of a loop-type structure. b Loop-type construct. preclinical studies showed that the bio-3D conduit promoted superior nerve regeneration, as evidenced by increased numbers of myelinated axons, enhanced Schwann cell expression, and consistent nerve bridging compared with conventional silicone conduits46. These findings suggest a promising therapeutic strategy for neurological diseases. Despite this potential, the technical complexity and high operational cost of bio-3D printers may limit their widespread adoption compared with other bioprinting technologies. In particular, research on the construction of functional microvascular structures within artificial tissues remains limited. Nevertheless, this Perspective aims to outline potential strategies and future directions for scaffold-free microvascular construction by optimizing key parameters, such as spheroid composition and structural design, based on existing studies of vascularized tissues. Design of spheroids and structures for construction of microvascularized tissues One strategy involves fabricating multicellular spheroids by combining ECs with organ-specific cells to engineer target constructs35,38,39. Itoh et al.

  generalstated in future workevidence 5/5
  Keywords: design construct printer construction structures tissues spheroids adapted creative commons license cellular constructs tubular patch
• Evolution of Maxillofacial Prosthetic Materials: Conventional, Digital, and Nanotechnology Perspectives (2026) · AlQalam Journal of Medical and Applied Sciences · doi

  The future of maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation is expected to be driven by the convergence of advanced biomaterials, digital technologies, and artificial intelligence. Recent developments in nanotechnology-modified silicone elastomers have demonstrated improved mechanical strength, color stability, and antimicrobial performance; however, further long-term clinical investigations are required to validate their behavior under functional oral and environmental conditions. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms are increasingly being explored for automated facial analysis, defect reconstruction, and prosthesis design optimization, which may significantly reduce operator dependency and improve reproducibility. In parallel, fully digital workflows combining three-dimensional (3D) facial scanning, computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM), and additive manufacturing technologies are expected to become the standard approach in complex maxillofacial rehabilitation. Emerging concepts such as smart biomaterials and stimuli-responsive polymers may offer dynamic adaptation to temperature, light, and mechanical stress, improving prosthesis longevity and patient comfort. Furthermore, 4D printing technology, which enables time-dependent shape transformation, represents a promising direction for personalized prosthetic design. Copyright Author (s) 2026. Distributed under Creative Commons CC-BY 4.0 Received: 22-05-2026 - Accepted: 19-07-2026 - Published: 25-07-2026 2221 Alqalam Journal of Medical and Applied Sciences. 2026;9(7):2215-2223 https://doi.org/10.54361/ajmas.269754 Despite these advancements, challenges remain related to material standardization, cost-effectiveness, regulatory approval, and long-term biocompatibility of novel nanocomposites.

  generalstated in future workevidence 5/5
  Keywords: design maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation expected biomaterials digital technologies artificial intelligence mechanical long term clinical facial
• Reimagining Maxillofacial Reconstruction: Transformative Advances in 3D Printing and Patient-Specific Implant Design (2026) · Trends in Biomaterials and Artificial Organs · doi

  3D printing technology and custom implants could really change the game in maxillofacial reconstruction. Biocompatible materials combined with advanced production methods, along with patient-specific anatomy, allows us to produce precise, aesthetically pleasing end products that address the individual needs of each patient [140]. Bio-printing and tissue engineering Bioprinting and Tissue Engineering for Global Bioprinting and Cre- ation of Patient Specific Living Tissues for the Reconstruction of Max- illofacial Structures. The bioprinting (3D printing) process involves the layering of bioinks; suspension of cells, growth factors and biomaterials in generating complex tissue constructs that mimic the structure of soft tissues, cartilage and bone [141]. This versatile method enables precise anatomical customization producing superior functional and aesthetic results. Scaffolds are also created to cause cells to divide and regenerate in tissue engineering and will eventually become part of the patient’s own tissues [142]. In particular, these technologies will be suited for the repair of maxillofacial tumor resections, trauma injuries, and congenital anomalies. Bioprinting allows for the fusion of biological and engineer- 297 S. Bag, S.K. Sen, K. Ganguly, D. Mandal / Trends Biomater. Artif. Organs, 40(3), 291-301 (2026) ing principles to construct normal anatomical structures and concur- rently interconnect those structures. The use of bioprinting may also produce lower rejection rates, faster healing, and longer-term regenera- tion than conventional grafts or synthetic implants currently utilized. Bioprinting and tissue engineering are in early stages of development, with continued advances in these techniques placing the future of per- sonalized regenerative medicine at the forefront of maxillofacial sur- gery [143]. AI and machine learning in 3D implant design The process of implant design continues to develop rapidly with ad- vances in AI and ML technologies, which allow for the production of customized manufacturing solutions for each patient through 3D print- ing technology. These Data and Image-based (DI) implants are made using imaging (CT/MRI scans) of the patient. These data enable tai- lored implants that fit volumetrically [144]. Implant dimension, material selection, and mechanical properties can be optimized to guarantee en- hanced durability and performance with ML methods. Other features are the reduction of development time and human error in automated design processes. It applies predictive analytics powered by AI for pre- dicting surgical outcome to guide clinicians in making the best possible decision [145]. The AI software can also enhance the quality control by flagging design errors before production. Overall, integrating AI and ML into 3D implant design results in better outcomes for individual patients and more efficient design processes-such as models developed in-house for each patient. They also create a truly personalized way to develop surgical device [146].

  generalstated in future workevidence 5/5
  Keywords: patient bioprinting design tissue implants engineering implant printing maxillofacial production tissues structures technology reconstruction specific

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