Carbon nanotube-based materials-Preparation, biocompatibility, and applications in dentistry

Since their discovery in 1991, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have attracted attention for use in the healthcare industry. One of their important uses is as biomaterials for tissue regeneration. The use of CNT-based material for biomedical applications in dentistry and regenerative medicine is the focus of this chapter. The various methods of incorporating CNTs for use as biomaterials are reviewed. These include melt compounding, solution blending, in situ polymerization, electrospinning, and layer-by-layer assembly. The relative merits and drawbacks of each processing technique are discussed. Electrical properties of CNT composites are briefly addressed with a view to potential applications as electroactive biomaterials. The recent literature with respect to the biocompatibility of CNT and CNT-based materials is reviewed and discussed. Finally, potential applications of CNT-based materials in the healthcare system are discussed.