Nanotechnology refers to the research and development of an applied science at the atomic or molecular level (i.e. molecular engineering, manufacturing). Although the nanoscale is small in size, its potential is vast. Almost every area of human activity will be affected by future nanotechnologies. Nanotechnology is based on the concept of creating functional structures by controlling atoms and molecules on a one-by-one basis. With developments in materials science and biotechnology, nanotechnology is especially anticipated to provide advances in dentistry and innovations in oral health-related diagnostic and therapeutic methods.