A rapid-setting, mesoporous, bioactive glass cement (MBGC, see figure) that exhibits highly desirable plasticity and superior in vitro bioactivity is described. The calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite nanocrystals that form during cement setting act as linkers between mesoporous bioactive glass particles to make the cement mechanically robust. The MGBC is promising for applications in clinical orthopedics, drug delivery, and tissue engineering.