From dental adhesives to injectable hemostats: a scoping review of antimicrobial biomaterials for oral soft-tissue bleeding.

BACKGROUND: The management of acute oral hemorrhage in emergency settings is frequently complicated by saliva, high vascularity, and microbial presence. This scoping review maps the emerging field of multifunctional, dental-inspired biomaterials. The objective is to synthesize evidence on injectable materials providing rapid hemostasis and antimicrobial protection, while acknowledging the current transition from laboratory models to clinical applications. METHODS: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines and the Population-Concept-Context (PCC) model, we searched Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science (updated search date: July 10, 2026). No language restrictions were applied. Two authors independently performed screening and data extraction (Cohen's Kappa = 0.88). Review articles provided thematic context, while 13 primary research studies provided data for performance benchmarking. No formal protocol was registered. RESULTS: Analysis of 13 primary studies reveals a shift toward chitosan and gelatin-methacryloyl (GelMA) matrices. Quantitative synthesis showed a 32%-42% reduction in hemostasis time compared with commercial controls [1, 2], primarily in low-pressure models. Antimicrobial zones of inhibition ranged from 10 to 18 mm. Antimicrobial action was primarily validated against planktonic, single-species cultures, with effectiveness against complex oral biofilms yet to be proven. CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence supports the application of these materials for minor-to-moderate hemorrhage. Broad application for major arterial trauma remains a future objective requiring longitudinal safety studies on nanoparticle bioaccumulation and dynamic mechanical validation under arterial pressure.