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Influence of Coca-Cola® on Thermoplastic Degradation in Clear Orthodontic Aligners
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This pilot study tested the effect of Coca-Cola exposure on microplastic release from clear orthodontic aligners made of two commercial thermoplastic brands, finding that the acidic beverage accelerated polymer degradation and increased MP particle release during simulated oral use.
Clear orthodontic aligners, primarily composed of thermoplastic polymers, are increasingly popular but susceptible to degradation through thermal, chemical, and mechanical stress. This preliminary pilot study assessed the release of microplastics from two commercial aligner brands under simulated oral conditions. Aligners were exposed to daily cycles of Coca-Cola® or artificial saliva, with mechanical agitation replicating masticatory friction. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed microplastic release in both environments, with a notably higher particle count after Coca-Cola® exposure. These findings indicate the potential health and environmental risks linked to acidic beverage consumption during orthodontic treatment. Further comprehensive studies are required to validate and expand upon these results.
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Microscopic Acid‐Induced Degradation and Elemental Release From Thermoformed and 3D ‐Printed Orthodontic Aligners in a Simulated Gastric Environment
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Researchers evaluated acid-induced degradation and elemental release from thermoformed and 3D-printed orthodontic aligner materials under simulated gastric conditions, finding that both types released microplastic and nanoplastic particles along with chemical additives under acidic exposure, raising concerns about ingestion risks during orthodontic treatment.
Experimental assessment of damage and microplastic release during cyclic loading of clear aligners
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Researchers tested three popular brands of clear orthodontic aligners under simulated chewing conditions and found that all released microplastic particles during use. Since patients wear aligners for extended periods each day, this represents a direct and ongoing source of microplastic ingestion, raising questions about the cumulative exposure from dental devices that are growing in popularity.
A spectroscopic study on orthodontic aligners: First evidence of secondary microplastic detachment after seven days of artificial saliva exposure
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Researchers investigated whether clear orthodontic aligners release microplastics when exposed to artificial saliva over seven days. The study found evidence of microplastic detachment from aligners made by multiple manufacturers, representing the first documentation of secondary microplastic release from these dental devices. The findings raise questions about potential microplastic ingestion by the millions of people who use clear aligners.
Microplastics in Orthodontics
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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.
Evaluation of microplastic release from orthodontic clear aligner – A spectroscopic study
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Researchers evaluated microplastic release from orthodontic clear aligners under simulated oral conditions using Raman microspectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The study found that mechanical friction in the mouth can cause these dental devices to shed microplastic particles, raising questions about an overlooked source of direct microplastic exposure for the millions of people who use clear aligners.
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.