Bioceramic Material
Pronunciation: by-oh-SER-am-ik
A ceramic-based dental or biomedical material engineered for direct contact with biological tissues, possessing biocompatibility and often bioactivity.
Full Definition
Bioceramics in dentistry include materials such as calcium silicates, hydroxyapatite, tricalcium phosphate, and alumina or zirconia ceramics used in endodontics, implantology, and bone grafting. The term encompasses both bioinert ceramics (e.g., alumina-toughened zirconia) and bioactive ceramics (e.g., calcium silicate–based sealers that promote mineralisation). Editors must be alert to the loose commercial use of 'bioceramic' as a marketing term applied to any calcium silicate–containing product, which may not align with the strict scientific definition. The category should not be used synonymously with 'glass ceramic' or 'dental ceramic' in manuscript editing.
Usage
Usage note: Challenge commercial or promotional use of 'bioceramic' that lacks reference to a defined biological interaction. Ensure authors specify the ceramic subtype on first mention.
In Context
- "The authors' use of 'bioceramic' to describe a feldspathic porcelain was inaccurate; the term requires confirmed biocompatibility and tissue interaction." — Peer-review comment
- "Bioceramic materials used in vital pulp therapy are increasingly reported as alternatives to MTA due to their improved handling properties." — Clinical review article