Mesoporous Bioactive Glass: Preparation, Characterisation, and Emerging Applications in Regenerative Medicine and Dentistry

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Mesoporous bioactive glasses have emerged as advanced biomaterials due to their highly ordered mesoporous structure, large surface area, and enhanced biological reactivity. These properties distinguish them from conventional bioactive glasses and underpin their growing interest in regenerative medicine and dentistry. This review aims to summarise the development, synthesis, structural characteristics, and applications of mesoporous bioactive glasses, with a focus on their translational potential. METHODS: A narrative review of the literature was conducted using major scientific databases to identify peer-reviewed studies related to the preparation, characterisation, and biomedical and dental applications of mesoporous bioactive glasses. Relevant in vitro and in vivo studies were critically analysed to synthesise current evidence and emerging trends. RESULTS: Mesoporous bioactive glasses exhibit tunable pore sizes, high surface area, and enhanced ion and drug release capabilities, resulting in rapid hydroxyapatite formation and improved cell adhesion and proliferation. Various synthesis approaches, including sol-gel and templating techniques, allow precise control over composition and mesostructure. Reported applications include bone and soft tissue regeneration, drug delivery, wound healing, and antimicrobial therapies. In dentistry, mesoporous bioactive glasses have been explored for enamel remineralisation, periodontal regeneration, dentin hypersensitivity management, orthodontic applications, endodontic therapy, and implant surface modification. Most evidence remains pre-clinical. CONCLUSION: Mesoporous bioactive glasses have emerged as a promising class of biomaterials for regenerative and dental applications. However, limitations related to mechanical strength, manufacturing scalability, and the lack of clinical studies currently restrict widespread clinical applications. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Mesoporous bioactive glasses offer enhanced bioactivity and therapeutic delivery compared with conventional bioactive glasses, highlighting their potential to improve regenerative and restorative dental outcomes once translational challenges are addressed.