Conventional dentistry faces limitations in preserving tooth health due to the finite lifespan of restorative materials. Regenerative dentistry, utilizing stem cells and bioactive materials, offers a promising approach for regenerating dental tissues. Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) and bioactive materials like calcium phosphate (CaP) and silicate-based materials have shown potential for dental tissue regeneration. This systematic review aims to investigate the effects of CaP and silicate-based materials on hDPSCs through in vitro studies published since 2015. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search strategy was implemented in PubMed MedLine, Cochrane, and ScienceDirect databases. Eligibility criteria were established using the PICOS scheme. Data extraction and risk of bias (RoB) assessment were conducted, with the included studies assessed for bias using the Office of Health and Translation (OHAT) RoB tool. The research has been registered at OSF Registries. Ten in vitro studies met the eligibility criteria out of 1088 initial studies. Methodological heterogeneity and the use of self-synthesized biomaterials with limited generalizability were observed in the included study. The findings highlight the positive effect of CaP and silicate-based materials on hDPSCs viability, adhesion, migration, proliferation, and differentiation. While the overall RoB assessment indicated satisfactory credibility of the reviewed studies, the limited number of studies and methodological heterogeneity pose challenges for quantitative research. In conclusion, this systematic review provides valuable insights into the effects of CaP and silicate-based materials on hDPSCs. Further research is awaited to enhance our understanding and optimize regenerative dental treatments using bioactive materials and hDPSCs, which promise to improve patient outcomes.

Introduction: Streptococcus mutans is central to plaque-induced oral diseases due to its robust biofilm-forming ability. Understanding the genetic and regulatory basis of this process is critical for developing targeted anti-virulence strategies that preserve the balance of the oral microbiome. This systematic review aims to gather and evaluate existing evidence on the virulence genes associated with Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation.Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Studies investigating the genetic and regulatory mechanisms of biofilm formation, as well as the effects of experimental treatments, were included, and the risk of bias was assessed using the QUIN tool.Results: Key virulence genes were identified, including glucosyltransferases (gtfB, gtfC, gtfD), glucan-binding proteins (gbpB, gbpC), and two-component systems (vicRK, liaSR). These genes contribute to adhesion, extracellular polysaccharide synthesis, and environmental adaptation, processes critical for biofilm development. Various anti-virulence strategies, such as quorum sensing inhibitors and gene-targeted compounds, show promise in controlling biofilm formation without compromising bacterial viability, thereby preserving the homeostasis of the normal oral flora, which is essential for maintaining overall oral health.Conclusion: While key virulence genes have been well characterized, further research is needed to clarify how their regulation is influenced by environmental conditions. Insights from this review may support the development of novel therapeutic approaches that reduce Streptococcus mutans pathogenicity while maintaining oral microbial balance.Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024577977, PROSPERO CRD42024577977.

Carbonate apatite (CO₃Ap) is a bioceramic material with excellent properties for bone and dentin regeneration. To enhance its mechanical strength and bioactivity, silica calcium phosphate composites (Si-CaP) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) were added to CO₃Ap cement. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Si-CaP and Ca(OH)₂ on the mechanical properties in terms of the compressive strength and biological characteristics of CO₃Ap cement, specifically the formation of an apatite layer and the exchange of Ca, P, and Si elements. Five groups were prepared by mixing CO₃Ap powder consisting of dicalcium phosphate anhydrous and vaterite powder added by varying ratios of Si-CaP and Ca(OH)₂ and 0.2 mol/L Na₂HPO₄ as a liquid. All groups underwent compressive strength testing, and the group with the highest strength was evaluated for bioactivity by soaking it in simulated body fluid (SBF) for one, seven, 14, and 21 days. The group that added 3% Si-CaP and 7% Ca(OH)₂ had the highest compressive strength among the groups. SEM analysis revealed the formation of needle-like apatite crystals from the first day of SBF soaking, and EDS analysis indicated an increase in Ca, P, and Si elements. XRD and FTIR analyses confirmed the presence of apatite. This combination of additives improved the compressive strength and showed the good bioactivity performance of CO₃Ap cement, making it a potential biomaterial for bone and dental engineering applications.