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The oral–systemic interface of micro- and nanoplastics
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Researchers reviewed the oral cavity as an underexplored entry point for micro- and nanoplastics from dental products, toothbrushes, restorations, and implants, finding evidence linking local particle exposure to oral diseases including periodontitis and oral cancer, and noting that particles crossing oral barriers can disseminate systemically to worsen inflammatory and metabolic conditions.
Microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) and nanoplastics (NPs, <1 μm) are pervasive pollutants increasingly recognized as emerging threats to human health. While their systemic impacts on the gastrointestinal, respiratory, reproductive, and immune systems are well documented, their relevance to oral health has received limited attention. The oral cavity represents both a primary site of exposure, via ingestion, inhalation, and contact with dental and personal care products, and a sensitive biological interface where local toxicity may arise. This review synthesizes evidence on oral sources of MPs/NPs, including toothbrushes, toothpastes, orthodontic appliances, restorative composites, prostheses, implants, and impression materials. We highlight potential links to oral diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis, peri-implantitis, denture stomatitis, oral cancer, and xerostomia. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that MPs/NPs trigger oxidative stress, inflammatory signaling, immune dysregulation, microbiome disturbances, and endocrine disruption, with implications for both local pathology and systemic dissemination. Once crossing oral and gastrointestinal barriers, these particles can accumulate in distant organs, exacerbating chronic inflammatory and metabolic disorders. We conclude by outlining key research gaps, emphasizing the need for advanced detection methods, sustainable dental materials, and translational studies to clarify clinical relevance. Collectively, this review underscores the oral cavity as a critical but underexplored interface for plastic particle exposure.
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The unseen perils of oral-care products generated micro/nanoplastics on human health
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This review reveals that everyday oral care products like toothpaste, toothbrushes, and dental materials release micro and nanoplastics into the mouth through normal use. These tiny particles are generated by mechanical friction, pH changes, and temperature shifts during brushing and dental procedures. Since the mouth is a direct entry point to the digestive system, this overlooked source of microplastic exposure could have significant implications for human health.
Micro- and Nanoplastics and the Oral Cavity: Implications for Oral and Systemic Health, Dental Practice, and the Environment—A Narrative Review
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This review explores how micro- and nanoplastics are both generated by and introduced through dental practices, including from composite fillings, aligners, and other dental materials. Researchers discuss the potential implications for oral and systemic health, noting that the oral cavity serves as a direct entry point for these particles into the body. The study encourages the dental field to adopt safer, microplastic-free materials and raise awareness among practitioners.
From Oral Cavity to Whole Body: A Review of the Local and Systemic Toxicity Mechanisms and Health Risks of MNPs.
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This research review reveals that tiny plastic particles (called microplastics) first accumulate in our mouths before spreading throughout the body, making the mouth a critical "entry point" for plastic pollution. The study shows these particles can build up in dental plaque and may cause local damage in the mouth while also serving as a gateway for more serious health problems throughout the body. Understanding how microplastics first interact with our mouths could help scientists better protect people from the growing health risks of plastic pollution.
Micro and nanoplastics in dentistry: emerging sources, health implications, and mitigation pathways: a narrative review.
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This review of existing research found that common dental materials and oral care products like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and dental fillings can release tiny plastic particles called microplastics into your mouth. Lab studies suggest these particles might cause inflammation and cell damage when they build up in mouth tissues, though scientists haven't yet proven they cause actual health problems in people. The good news is that dentists and patients can reduce exposure by using better suction systems during procedures and choosing oral care products that shed fewer plastic particles.
Periodontal Disease, Chronic Silent Inflammation, and Micro/Nanoplastics: An Environmental Microbiology Review of Oral Biofilm Retention, Dysbiosis, and Systemic Risk Pathways
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This research developed cassava starch-based bioplastics, evaluating the mechanical, thermal, and biodegradation properties of starch-composite materials as alternatives to conventional petroleum-derived plastics. The study demonstrates that cassava starch can serve as a viable raw material for biodegradable packaging applications in tropical regions.
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