Potential of Nature-derived Biopolymers for Oral Applications- A Mini-Review.

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the "back-to-nature" movement, which has brought biopolymers derived from natural sources into the spotlight. These biopolymers are gaining attention for their versatile surface-active properties, anti-adhesive capabilities, excellent biocompatibility, non-toxicity, biodegradability, and antimicrobial effectiveness against a wide range of oral microorganisms, including both bacteria and fungi. Researchers have been actively modifying these eco-friendly, nature-based biopolymers to enhance their interaction with surrounding cells and tissues, improving their performance in vivo. This has led to innovative applications in areas such as surface coatings, controlled drug delivery, tissue repair, and dental implant devices. These advancements hold the potential to pave the way for the development of novel drug delivery systems with enhanced therapeutic properties, ultimately supporting the creation of innovative formulations for clinical use. This review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of recent developments, explore potential future directions, and highlight the promising applications of nature-derived biopolymers in oral healthcare.