We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Micro- and Nanoplastics and the Oral Cavity: Implications for Oral and Systemic Health, Dental Practice, and the Environment—A Narrative Review
Summary
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.
Dentistry is both a source and vector of MNP exposure. Encouraging the use of safer, MNP-free materials, and raising awareness among dental professionals, may support more responsible and health-conscious practices. Further research and alignment with global policy strategies could help guide future innovation and risk mitigation in the dental field.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Micro and nanoplastics in dentistry: emerging sources, health implications, and mitigation pathways: a narrative review.
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.
The oral–systemic interface of micro- and nanoplastics
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 and nanoplastics in healthcare: environmental persistence, health implications, and professional awareness
This review examines how micro- and nanoplastics have infiltrated ecosystems, food, water, and even human tissues, with particular focus on their relevance to healthcare settings — especially dentistry and orthodontics — where extensive plastic use generates microplastic debris from single-use items and clear aligners.
What every dentist needs to know about microplastics and dental materials.
This review examines the sources and potential health risks of microplastics originating from dental products, including toothpastes, dental composites, aligners, and other clinical materials. Researchers found that dental products can release microplastic particles during use and degradation, contributing to both patient exposure and environmental contamination. The study calls for greater awareness among dental professionals about microplastic risks and the development of safer alternative materials.
Microplastics in Dentistry: A Review of Health and Environmental Risks
This narrative review examined the sources and health implications of microplastics in dental settings, identifying dental materials, procedures, and equipment as underrecognized sources of patient and clinician exposure. The review calls for greater awareness and standardized safety protocols in dentistry.