Advancement in Biomaterials in the Form of Implants

Biomaterials are materials utilized to replace a human body part that serves the same function as the original or restore the function of damaged or degenerated tissues and organs. Implants such as sutures, bone plates, joint replacements, ligaments, vascular grafts, heart valves, intraocular lenses, and dental implants have overtaken alternative therapy approaches and entered the mainstream of dental care over the past ten years. One of the primary requirements for a biomaterial to be suitable for medical applications or implantation is that it should be nontoxic, not cause any immune response, and be chemically stable, biocompatible, and well-tolerated by the human body. Different materials like metals, ceramics, and polymers, are used for the manufacturing of implants, depending on whether a permanent or temporary implant is needed. However, they exhibit a number of disadvantages, including toxicity, a lack of mechanical stability, and processing complexity. Numerous biomaterials have been discovered, but most implanted biomaterials now in use cause either acute or chronic inflammatory reactions inside the body. Nanotechnology has aided in developing an entirely novel implant material with enhanced efficacy, low cost, and a significant surface-to-volume ratio. Modifying the surfaces of present implants to reduce the body’s reaction and enhance the natural healing of wounds is also one strategy for developing such healing biomaterials. This chapter covers the advancements in biomaterials used for implants, including various techniques for physically and chemically modifying the surfaces, as well as the use of 3D printing and nanotechnology.