Integrating Biotechnology into Prosthodontic Care for Older Adults: A Scoping Review

This scoping review explores the potential of interdisciplinary research, grounded in cognitive instructional taxonomy to enhance the integration of biotechnology into prosthodontic care for older adults. Aging populations, although facing complex oral health issues could benefit from scientific advancements such as the use of 3D printing, CAD/CAM systems, bioactive materials and AI-driven diagnostics. The review utilizes Bloom’s cognitive hierarchy to systematically organize findings from 37 out of 70 peer-reviewed studies selected for this review, retrieved using the PRISMA method. At the foundational levels- “Remember”, “Understand”-, biological indicators of aging and biomechanical principles guide risk stratification and design approaches. The intermediate cognitive levels – “Apply”, “Analyze”-emphasize technological applications, including antimicrobial materials, AI tools and analytical evaluations that support contemporary treatment protocols. At the advanced levels – “Evaluate”, “Create”-, the review thoughtfully examines implementation hurdles, health equity issues and long-term implications. Notable contributions at the “Create” level comprise immunomodulatory nanomaterials, accurate AI diagnostics and regenerative methods that integrate tissue engineering with geriatric dentistry. The review highlights three primary insights: (1) interdisciplinary integration boosts research effectiveness; (2) operative translation relies on ongoing collaboration among sectors; and (3) structural, conceptual and educational barriers must be addressed to unlock the potential of biotechnology comprehensively. It promotes a cognitive framework that aligns discipline contributions with implementation goals, thus encouraging structured collaboration. As global aging rises, adapting biologically and leveraging technology in prosthodontics should be integral to geriatric oral healthcare. Bloom’s Taxonomy facilitates knowledge synthesis, innovation and implementation in this interdisciplinary domain.