The application of cold atmospheric pressure plasma in prosthodontics.

Objective: This review systematically summarizes recent advances in plasma applications for dentin bonding, antibacterial enhancement, and implant surface modification.

Data: A systematic literature search was conducted across four electronic databases: Medline via PubMed, Cochrane Library, Wiley Online Library, and Web of Science. The search was performed from inception until August 2025.

Sources: 154 publications were included in this review.

Study selection: The keywords used included combinations of MeSH and free-text terms such as 'cold atmospheric pressure plasma', 'CAP', 'dentin bonding', 'antibacterial', and 'implant surface modification'. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts, followed by full-text evaluation. Disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer. Inclusion criteria were: (1) original research articles, (2) studies involving CAP in prosthodontics, (3) published in English. Exclusion criteria included: case reports, editorials, and conference abstracts.

Conclusion: CAP can enhance the penetration and polymerization of resin monomers in dentin bonding, improve bond strength, and reduce microleakage due to its highly active substances. Additionally, CAP has exhibited notable antibacterial properties, as its reactive oxygen and nitrogen effectively inactivate oral bacteria and biofilm, thereby reducing the likelihood of drug resistance. Furthermore, CAP treatment may enhance implant surface properties, promote osseointegration, lower infection risk, and promote soft-tissue healing.

Clinical significance: CAP is anticipated to address the challenges encountered in prosthodontics, including dentin bonding, antimicrobial properties, and implant surface modification. Consequently, CAP is expected to provide an innovative solution for the functionalization and longevity of dental restorations with the prospect of future chairside application.