3D-printed hydrogels for craniofacial bone regeneration: A scoping review protocol

Craniofacial bone defects remain a clinical challenge in dentistry due to their functional and esthetic impact. Conventional grafting materials often yield unpredictable outcomes, as the oral environment, characterized by microbial contamination and complex biomechanical demands, compromises consistent bone regeneration. Hydrogel-based systems have emerged as promising alternatives owing to their tunable physicochemical properties, high water content, biocompatibility, and ability to encapsulate cells and bioactive agents (de Souza et al., 2025). When combined with reinforcing biomaterials and advanced additive manufacturing techniques such as three-dimensional (3D) printing, hydrogels allow precise architectural design and spatial control of biological signals, thereby enhancing regenerative potential. This review will systematically map and critically synthesize laboratory-based evidence on the fabrication strategies, physicochemical characteristics, and biological performance of 3D-printed hydrogels for bone regeneration in Dentistry.