This narrative review examines contemporary applications of polymeric materials in dentistry from 2020 to 2025, spanning prosthodontics, restorative dentistry, orthodontics, endodontics, implantology, diagnostics, and emerging technologies. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase for peer reviewed English language articles and synthesized evidence on polymer classes, processing routes, mechanical and chemical behavior, and clinical performance. Approximately 116 articles were included. Polymers remain central to clinical practice: poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) is still widely used for dentures, high performance systems such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK) are expanding framework and implant-related indications, and resin composites and adhesives continue to evolve through nanofillers and bioactive formulations aimed at improved durability and reduced secondary caries. Thermoplastic polyurethane and copolyester systems drive clear aligner therapy, while polymer-based obturation materials and fiber-reinforced posts support endodontic rehabilitation. Additive manufacturing and computer aided design computer aided manufacturing (CAD CAM) enable customized prostheses and surgical guides, and sustainability trends are accelerating interest in biodegradable or recyclable dental polymers. Across domains, evidence remains heterogeneous and clinical translation depends on balancing strength, esthetics, biocompatibility, aging behavior, and workflow constraints.

Background: As dental technicians are exposed to a variety of airborne chemicals that can act as irritants and sensitizers, and may give rise to work-related respiratory symptoms, the aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of respiratory symptoms of exposure to substances in the...

Background. CAD/CAM technologies facilitate using powder CoCr alloys to produce metal-ceramic dental restorations. However, base alloys may induce oxidative stress in the oral cavity due to corrosion and ion release. This study evaluated resistance to corrosion and release of metal ions from 3D printed CoCr dental alloy and their effect on oral oxidative stress. Methods. Metal-ceramic crowns with 3D printed copings from CoCr alloy EOS CobaltChrome SP2 (EOS, Germany) were fabricated for 35 patients. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used for measuring the concentration of Co and Cr ions in non-stimulated saliva before prosthetic treatment (BPT), at 2 h and 7 days after the dental treatment (APT2, APT7, respectively). Open circuit potentials (Eocp) were evaluated at APT2 and APT7. Estimating oral oxidative stress, measurements of 8-isoprostaglandin F2-alpha were conducted using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) at stages BPT, APT2, and APT7. Results. Salivary Co level increased at APT2 and decreased to the initial levels at APT7. No statistical difference was found between the levels of 8-isoPGF2-alpha measured, and between the Eocp measurements at APT2 and APT7. Conclusions. The studied alloy showed stable corrosion resistance and the metal ion release did not induce oral oxidative stress.