Nanozyme-based precision therapy for periodontitis: Classification, mechanisms, and challenges

Periodontitis, a chronic multifactorial inflammatory disease mediated by microorganisms, causes progressive destruction of tooth-supporting structures and loss of attachment. Existing clinical therapies are limited in achieving precise intervention and sustaining long-term efficacy. Nanozymes, an emerging class of enzyme-mimetic materials, combine efficient catalytic activity with tunability while integrating multiple functions, such as antimicrobial activity and anti-inflammatory effects, offering a novel therapeutic strategy for the precise treatment of periodontitis. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in nanozyme-based periodontitis therapy, clearly delineating the innovative trajectory of material design, focusing on its diverse therapeutic functions, including antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as modulation of bone metabolism. It further aims to provide a research framework for clinical translation by discussing current therapeutic challenges, prospects, limitations of nanozyme applications, and proposes performance-enhancement strategies based on the pathological features of periodontitis.