Orthodontics is a dentistry specialty that addresses the diagnosis, prevention, management, and correction of mal-positioned teeth and jaws, as well as misaligned bite patterns and also address the modification of facial growth, known as dentofacial orthopedics. Fixed orthodontic treatment has become increasingly predominant in orthodontic practice throughout the world in recent decades. Demineralization of enamel  is an inevitable side-effect associated with fixed orthodontic treatment, especially when associated with poor oral hygiene.  The acidic byproducts of the bacteria in plaque are responsible for the subsequent enamel demineralization and formation of white spot lesions (WSL). The revolution in technology & material sciences pioneered to the development of different nanoparticle applications into orthodontics.

The name "Nano" comes from the “Greek word” for "dwarf." “The study of manipulating matter with a nanometer—roughly the size of two or three atoms—is known as nanotechnology”. When applied in its strictest meaning, the fundamental principle of nanotechnology is the use of single atoms and molecules to create useful structures. “According to the British Standards Institution, nanoparticles are any particles whose fields or widths are all in the nanoscale range”. “However, materials that have at least one side or internal structure that is on the nanoscale are known as nanomaterials”. Any purposely created particle having a “characteristic dimension between 1 and 100 nm” and attributes that are distinct from those of “non-nanoscale particles” with the “same chemical makeup” is considered to be an engineered nanoparticle.

Hereby I  will be discussing the different applications of nanomaterials in various aspects of orthodontic components  like brackets, adhesives, arch wires etc.. to improve their efficacy. And I will be very happy to share some my research activities in these nanomaterial coatings and the scope in the future.