We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Oral splints, clear aligners, mandibular advancement devices: hidden sources of micro- and nanoplastic exposure?
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers highlighted oral appliances such as splints, clear aligners, and mandibular advancement devices as potential underrecognized sources of chronic micro- and nanoplastic exposure, calling for rigorous human-centered studies to quantify the cumulative health risks from these widely used dental devices.
Given the widespread use of oral appliances and the subsequent emergence of associated health concerns, there is an imperative for rigorous, human-centered research to elucidate the potential health risks posed by cumulative, low-level exposure to microplastics released from these products.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics and nanoplastics in clinical dentistry and orthodontics: leaching, health implications, and future directions: a narrative review
AI summary Read the abstract
This narrative review examines the release of microplastics and nanoplastics from orthodontic appliances including aligners, retainers, and dental adhesives during routine wear and mechanical stress, calling for thorough investigation into health implications given the long-term use of these plastic-based devices.
What every dentist needs to know about microplastics and dental materials.
AI summary Read the abstract
This review outlined how common dental products — including toothpastes, composites, orthodontic appliances, and floss — contain or generate microplastics through degradation and use, and summarized the health risks from exposure via ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact.
Microplastics in Orthodontics
AI summary Read the abstract
This paper reviews how microplastics can leach from dental and orthodontic materials such as toothpaste, retainers, aligners, and adhesives, with the oral cavity being a direct route for microplastic ingestion. As orthodontic treatments become more common, especially clear aligner therapy, understanding the extent of microplastic release from these devices is important for assessing patient exposure.
The Microplastic Footprint of Orthodontics
AI summary Read the abstract
This review pulls together existing research showing that orthodontic devices like clear aligners, retainers, and tooth-colored fillings can shed tiny plastic particles—known as microplastics and nanoplastics—into your mouth over time. While scientists are still studying exactly how these particles affect our health, the paper suggests practical steps dentists can take to reduce this plastic exposure, which matters since millions of people wear these devices for months or years at a time.
What every dentist needs to know about microplastics and dental materials.
AI summary Read the abstract
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.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.