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Folate (FT) is a suitable targeting ligand for folate receptors (FOLR) overexpressed on inflamed cells. Thus, FT‐loaded polymers can be used as FOLRs‐targeted immunotherapy to positively modulate the inflammatory process. A novel biodegradable imprinted polymer with a FT delivery mechanism driven by pH changes [PCL‐MIP@FT] is designed with molecularly imprinted technology. The pH mechanism is validated in vitro, demonstrating that an acidic environment accelerated and increased the release of FT for a period of 7 days (∼100 µg mL−1). For the first time, FT receptors (FOLR‐1 and FOLR‐3) are discovered and also overexpressed on activated human gingival fibroblasts, representing a favorable target in the oral environment. Although FT itself does not have antimicrobial effects, the nanomechanical properties of biofilm are changed after topical FT administration. In vivo systemic toxicity of PCL‐MIP@FT has been demonstrated to be a safe biomaterial (up to 1.3 mg kg−1). When the PCL‐MIP@FT is assessed in the subcutaneous tissue, it promoted an alleviating inflammation and may be able to stimulate tissue repair. The present findings have demonstrated the reliable in vitro and in vivo anti‐inflammatory actions of FT‐loaded polymer and support its use as a novel drug‐free therapeutic platform for modulating and mitigating inflammatory responses in dental implant‐related infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Implantable biomedical devices have found widespread use in restoring lost functions or structures within the human body, but they face a significant challenge from microbial-related infections, which often lead to implant failure. In this context, antimicrobial hydrogels emerge as a promising strategy for treating implant-associated infections owing to their tunable physicochemical properties. However, the literature lacks a comprehensive analysis of antimicrobial hydrogels, encompassing their development, mechanisms, and effect on implant-associated infections, mainly in light of existing in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evidence. Thus, this review addresses the strategies employed by existing studies to tailor hydrogel properties to meet the specific needs of each application. Furthermore, this comprehensive review critically appraises the development of antimicrobial hydrogels, with a particular focus on solving infections related to metallic orthopedic or dental implants. Then, preclinical and clinical studies centering on providing quantitative microbiological results associated with the application of antimicrobial hydrogels are systematically summarized. Overall, antimicrobial hydrogels benefit from the tunable properties of polymers and hold promise as an effective strategy for the local treatment of implant-associated infections. However, future clinical investigations, grounded on robust evidence from in vitro and preclinical studies, are required to explore and validate new antimicrobial hydrogels for clinical use., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Congenital dental agenesis, particularly in younger adults, can have a profound impact on aesthetics and overall quality of life. The scientific literature offers various management strategies for this condition, with orthodontic movement and implant-supported rehabilitation being central to treatment. However, achieving predictable and successful outcomes necessitates a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach. Such an approach integrates diverse professional perspectives to ensure accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning, ultimately aiming to restore dental function and address aesthetic concerns effectively. In this case report, we present the successful rehabilitation of a young patient with congenital agenesis of the mandibular central incisors. The treatment strategy combined oral surgery (extraction of deciduous teeth and autogenous bone graft), orthodontic movement (opening spaces to allow implant installation), periodontics (connective tissue graft), implantology, and prosthetic planning. We detail the specific surgical approaches employed and discuss how their integration contributed to the overall success of the case. This multidisciplinary treatment approach not only restored dental function but also met the patient's aesthetic expectations and enhanced the patient's quality of life, highlighting the importance of a coordinated approach in managing complex dental conditions., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Gabriela Ezequiel Oliveira et al.)