Abstract
Dental composites are used in the treatment of conditions such as caries but could also produce marginal fractures and the emergence of secondary dental caries. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of antibacterial agents used with contemporary composites in managing dental caries. The systematic review involved the identification of relevant articles on the Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and PubMed databases. Studies published between 2011 and 2021 were obtained, screened, and assessed for eligibility using the PRISMA guidelines. The review resulted in an analysis of 10 studies that adopted experimental and in-vitro or in-vivo investigation approaches to propose new materials or investigate existing materials' antibacterial, mechanical, and aesthetic impacts on the composites and dental structures. The studies revealed that the antibacterial agents are effective in inhibiting the growth of caries-causing bacteria or killing the bacteria. The materials also had regenerative, remineralization, and protein-repellent effects on the dental structures and the composites. The poor material design could, however, affect the mechanical properties of the composites and the teeth. Novel antibacterial agents used in dental composites have a positive impact on the prevention of dental caries, restoration of lost tooth minerals, regeneration of the dental structure, and the repulsion of proteins.