Microplastics in Teeth Aligners – Should We be Concerned?

2024-10-09T00:20:04+00:00October 9th, 2024|Adam Brown DDS, Invisalign|

Almost One Billion Teeth Aligners End Up in Landfills Each Year

Now that you’ve thrown out your plastic containers and parted with your much-loved collection of vintage Tupperware, there’s another plastic to consider. While there’s little to no evidence that wearing teeth aligners is harmful during the corrective phase, there may be some issues with the disposal of these convenient dental tools. They are favorites of patients, dentists, and dental hygienists. No one is volunteering to go back to the metal, wax, and rubber bands, but there are some concerns about proper disposal due to the microplastics that are released as the aligners start to decompose.

 

Microplastics released from discarded aligners

For more information read this recent article  Published on: 

Discarded aligners often end up in landfills where they take decades to decompose, releasing microplastics into the environment. 

Microplastics have been declared a global emergency thanks to their ubiquitous presence in all aspects of life: air, soil, food and now, human organs.

These particles can enter the human body by swallowing contaminated food and water or inhaling airborne particles, potentially leading to respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems and even cancer.

Their pervasive use raises concerns about their impact on ecosystems and human health.

The lack of information around potential threats of microplastic leaching into everyday items is concerning. A case in point is orthodontic aligners.

These clear, custom-made devices help straighten teeth discreetly and effectively and are a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal braces.

Aligners are typically designed to be changed every two weeks to ensure optimal alignment progress. However, the leaching of microplastics from these devices when discarded has emerged as a significant health and environmental concern.

And, with around 728 million units being produced each year, it is becoming a significant problem.

Microplastics explained

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles measuring less than 5 millimeters in diameter. There are two main types: Primary and secondary.

Primary microplastics are intentionally manufactured to be small, such as microbeads in personal care products and plastic pellets used in industrial processes.

Secondary microplastics result from the breakup of larger plastic items due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, mechanical wear and chemical processes.

Microplastics have been found in oceans, rivers, soils and even the air.

The environmental impact of microplastics is equally troubling. Marine and terrestrial animals can ingest these particles, leading to injury, digestive issues and exposure to toxins. This contamination poses a threat to entire ecosystems by disrupting biodiversity and food chains. It’s through the food chain that they can end up in humans.

The problem with dental aligners

Orthodontic aligners are commonly made from thermoplastic materials designed for durability and flexibility, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyurethane.

These materials are subjected to a rigorous regimen, as aligners are typically worn for 20 to 22 hours a day and are changed every two weeks to ensure continuous alignment.

Despite their intended durability, these materials can contribute to microplastic pollution in several ways.

The primary concern is degradation. Aligners are exposed to saliva, temperature variations from hot or cold food and drink and mechanical stress from chewing. This constant exposure can cause the aligner materials to degrade over time.

Initial studies indicate that this degradation could take place as early as one week of wearing.

The PET and polyurethane in aligners are susceptible to degradation through hydrolysis, where water interacts with the polymer structure, leading to its breakdown into smaller particles.

The physical stresses of daily use, including chewing and speaking, also contribute to this fragmentation.

Improper disposal of aligners exacerbates the problem. They often end up in landfills where they degrade slowly. As the plastic breaks down, it releases microplastics into the soil and groundwater.

The persistence of plastic materials in landfills means that microplastics can remain in the environment for decades, contributing to broader plastic pollution issues.

Incinerating plastic aligners can also release harmful substances and carcinogenic toxins.

Microplastics health risks

Microplastics also pose significant health risks due to their ability to induce inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, which occurs when there are too many free radicals, a type of unstable molecule, and not enough antioxidants to neutralize them, leading to cell damage. 

Microplastics can contribute to this stress by releasing chemicals that increase free radicals in the body.

These effects arise from both their physical and chemical properties.

Microplastics, once ingested or inhaled, can cause inflammation. Chronic exposure can provoke respiratory or gastrointestinal inflammation, potentially leading to long-term health issues including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and certain cancers.

Microplastics also contribute to oxidative stress by creating reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are unstable molecules that can harm cells. ROS can damage cells by attacking cell membranes, altering proteins and causing changes or breaks in DNA. This damage can disrupt cell function and lead to health problems like disease and cell death.

This damage is linked to chronic diseases such as heart disease, neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimers and dementia and cancer.

Recycling may help

As more aligners are used and changed more often, the environmental burden of clear aligner therapy grows.

This massive volume of plastic waste means there is an urgent need for effective waste management solutions.

One possible solution is recycling.

An app, designed by researchers at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, helps promote responsible disposal by helping users find recycling centers or drop-off points for used aligners.

The used aligners are recycled into plastic pellets that can then be used as raw material for various plastic products.

AlignTrack offers detailed instructions on preparing the aligners for recycling, ensuring they are processed correctly, and valuable materials are recovered. Users can also report any health issues after using aligners. It also collects user feedback on aligner comfort and design for future design improvements.

A possible improvement is exploring orthodontic options made from sustainable or biodegradable materials to help reduce plastic use and environmental impact.

Research is emerging, such as the use of 4-D aligners to reduce the quantity of aligner use by patients, though its cytotoxicity or effects on human health hasn’t yet been established.

Ensuring not just the safety of materials used in aligners through rigorous testing but also increased research and investment in mitigating the adverse environmental effects of clear aligner therapy is essential for the well-being of both humans and the planet.

Swasti Verma, one of the co-founders of AlignTrack, is pursuing a PhD in biotechnology from Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad.

Vineeta Sharma is Associate Professor at the Department of Biotechnology, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad. She is an epigenetics expert, researching gene secrets amidst climate change.

Originally published under Creative Commons by 360info™.

 

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Millennials Are Investing In Their Smiles!

2023-07-17T15:00:18+00:00June 17th, 2023|Invisalign, Veneers|

Millennials spending money on teeth whitening and cosmetic dentistry.

83 million people in the United States belong to the millennial generation, born between 1982 and 1996. Fondly labeled as the economy and industry killers, millennials are also described as self-involved, self-expressive, and receptive to new ideas and ways of living. These common characteristics have enabled millennials to shape the face of nearly every industry and practice in the U.S., including dentistry!

Since June 2019, millennials have officially overtaken the Boomer generation (born between 1946 and 1964) as the largest portion of adults in the U.S. population. Millennials are setting the standard for what it takes to attract and retain patients to dental practices. Millennials dentists and patients alike are shaping the future, technology, and trends of dentistry. At Adam Brown DDS, we love all of our patients young and old, but we know the influence of the millennial population on dentistry.  Many of the changes are smart and offer an exciting future in dental care.

The digital world and dentistry

Millennials were born into a digital world that rapidly transformed before their eyes as they came of age. With high-tech literacy, technology permeates every corner of life for millennials, and as a result, they have high expectations for what tech will deliver. Millennials expect seamless, painless technology, with fast results, and don’t necessarily need the recommendation of a professional; the age of the Internet means information travels fast, and information is around every corner.

The dental industry still remains dominated by boomers, with 42% of current dentists being 55 years or older. In the next few years, we will see more and more practices begin the transition of handing off the dental industry to millennials, who will usher in the next wave of the best and latest practices.

Practices have already begun to shift to accommodate millennial demand. Research from the Oral Health Foundation found in June 2020, that millennials in the United Kingdom are spending three times the national average on dental treatments. That comes out to about £750 a year, per person! The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) estimates that Americans spend 2.75 billion on cosmetic dentistry each year and millennials made up 60 % of the clientele. Millennials outspend every other generation so far when it comes to working on their smiles.

The self-involvement and confidence to seek and try out new ideas have made the millennial population more receptive to and in demand of the latest oral health trends and technologies. When a millennial has an oral health problem, instead of calling the dentist, they may be more inclined to Google for an answer, seek out an FAQ, or turn to blogs like this for advice. A millennial may be more inclined to read practice and product reviews, and cost comparisons; maximum convenience and low cost are key.

What are millennial patients spending money on?

In a word, healthcare!  In the spirit of convenience and efficiency – why shouldn’t you invest in yourself and your healthcare?  Millennial patients spend more on dentistry treatments because they understand the importance of healthy teeth.

They are spending more on cosmetic treatments because they understand the impact of a healthy smile on your self-esteem.  The generation that grew up on the internet is more than aware of how far Adobe Photoshop, Face Tune, or even at-home-whitening kits can’t cut it when there’s always a chance of someone else posting a photo or video of you without editing. Pearly white teeth and celebrity Instagram smiles are in demand, and millennials are willing to make the change and pay the price for a perfect first impression.

Some of the most popular cosmetic density solutions for millennials revolve around smile repairs, such as:

Teeth whitening is by far the most popular dental treatment, with at least 4 in 10 people under 35 having tooth whitening treatment.

Brief procedures with little to no pain, and fast, visible results are very popular. With the rise of self-care lifestyles among the millennial population, smiles are associated with beauty as much as health.

In turn, millennial patients generally experience fewer oral health problems like tooth decay or tooth loss than older generations, simply because of better access to dental care as a child and through young adulthood, and the age of their teeth overall. This means that the majority of money millennials choose to spend on their dental care is for cosmetic treatments, and less about treating clinical problems.

However, on the flip side, many underserved millennial Americans suffer from lack of consistent, quality dental care (resulting in the need for later cosmetic treatments), with reports from the American Dental Association citing:

  • 35% report embarrassment related to their mouth and teeth
  • 35% report problems chewing
  • 30% experience anxiety about their oral healthcare
  • 33% avoid smiling
  • 38% say life, in general, is less satisfying due to the condition of their mouth and teeth

A barrier to dental care for many millennials is insurance. While millennials have higher standards about the appearance of their smile than other, older Americans, the strain remains between the inaccessibility between dental healthcare and cosmetic perfection. However, when millennials have secure job footing and benefits, they quickly seek out dental work, resulting in the influx of cosmetic treatments.

Let Adam Brown DDS help you strike a balance between baseline oral healthcare and cosmetic treatments.

Adam Brown DDS can help you achieve your ideals of a beautiful, healthy smile, at a reasonable cost, with a team of dental professionals that are there for you every step of the way. If you’re looking for a new dentist to build a lifelong relationship with and to set up a plan for achieving your dream smile, contact Dr. Brown and the team at (704) 289-9519.

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Is It Time for an Upgrade? Choosing Between Invisalign, Dental Implants, and Dentures

2022-02-14T15:42:40+00:00February 10th, 2022|Dental Implants, Dental Trends, Dentures, Invisalign|

Invisalign, Dentures, and Implants Monroe NC

If you feel this is the year to upgrade your smile, you have options. Adam Brown DDS offers several dental treatments that can give you the smile you’ve always wanted!

Three of the most popular treatments include Invisalign, dental implants, and dentures.

The solution that works best for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, and our office can help you make the right decision. But for now, let’s break down these three types of dental treatments and discuss how they can take your smile design to the next level!

 

What Is Invisalign?       

Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal braces. These clear aligners are used for teeth straightening, and they gradually shift teeth into their optimal positions. 

When using Invisalign, you don’t have to worry about metal brackets, wires, and other inconveniences of traditional braces. Most teenagers and adults who wear their aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day can correct their orthodontic problems. 

 

The Benefits of Invisalign     

When wearing metal braces, there are many foods that you must avoid, including corn-on-the-cob, popcorn, caramel, chewing gum, and chewy candies. Carrots, hard fruits and vegetables, nuts, and steak are also off-limits.

Because you can remove your aligner trays before meals and snacks, you can eat (and drink) whatever you wish, as long as you brush or rinse your teeth with water before re-applying the aligners.

The most obvious benefit of using clear aligners is that they are virtually invisible. Everyone knows you are undergoing orthodontic treatment when wearing traditional braces, but the average onlooker would not be able to tell when you are wearing Invisalign; the thin clear plastic is almost invisible.

Furthermore, it is easier to maintain oral hygiene when taking Invisalign treatment. It is common to notice stains on your teeth after wearing metal braces, if not gingivitis or cavities. Essentially, it is pretty challenging to brush and floss around metal wires and brackets, and even if you dedicate the extra time and effort, you may not be able to get into all the places you need to. 

All you have to do with Invisalign is remove the aligners, then brush and floss as you usually would. You can even clean your trays by soaking them in a cleaning solution or brushing them with a soft-bristle toothbrush.

Invisalign proves as effective as traditional braces for many patients, and they are much more comfortable. The smooth plastic fits snuggly to teeth, and you don’t have to worry about any brackets or wires poking your gums or cheeks. 

Even if you pay more for Invisalign, understand that emergency dental visits are less likely to occur because clear aligners are remarkably strong. There are no brackets or wires to break off. Moreover, more dental insurance plans are covering Invisalign.

 

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are primarily used to replace missing teeth. Missing teeth can impact chewing and speaking, lead to severe teeth misalignment, and cause gradual bone loss. While there are several ways to replace one or more missing teeth (e.g., dental bridges, partial dentures, complete dentures, etc.), dental implants have become one of the most popular choices because they offer many benefits. 

The patient undergoes a minor procedure to replace the missing tooth’s root with a post; then, the dentist puts a permanent dental crown onto the implant. 

 

Benefits of Dental Implants   

Getting dental implants is not the cheapest treatment, but it is often the most effective way to replace missing teeth. It can help you maintain clear speech, make chewing food more manageable, and provide superior comfort. Implants also look entirely natural, are easy to maintain, and are durable enough to last for many years.

 

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are another way to treat lost or removed teeth. A dentist (or laboratory) fabricates these sets of artificial teeth and gums to fit each patient’s mouth. You can get full or partial dentures. In other words, you can either replace a few missing teeth or all teeth on the top or bottom gum line. No matter what type of dentures you receive, you will have them custom-designed to match surrounding teeth and fit your mouth visually.

 

Benefits of Dentures   

Dentures are typically a less expensive solution for improving a smile and avoiding various oral health issues. They can support the structures around the lips and cheeks, plus they allow you to eat foods as you usually would and speak clearly. Your dentist will recommend whether dental implants or dentures are the best treatment for your situation.

 

Dental Implants vs. Dentures   

As we’ve discussed, both dental implants and dentures are viable solutions for replacing one or more missing teeth. The best treatment for you will depend on preference, price, jawbone health, and other factors. Let’s talk about these two treatments in more detail:

 

Dental Implants Procedure

When getting dental implants, the dentist will replace the missing tooth’s root with an implant that they will cap with a crown. This involves extracting the damaged root and inserting a metal prosthetic root (called a “post”) deep into the bone. Once the bone has grown around the post to secure it, the dentist will place an abutment onto it before applying the crown.

Sometimes, the abutment can be placed during the same procedure as the implant, while other times, it can take a couple of months for the bone to bond to the post.  

 

Dentures Procedure

Dentures are prosthetic, removable teeth for replacing one or many missing teeth. The dentist takes an impression of your mouth (upper gums, lower gums, or both), depending on which teeth need to be replaced. The dentist will also observe your jaw alignment and bite to ensure the dentures can improve your speech and ability to chew. 

Then, a lab will fabricate preliminary dentures for the dentist to fit in your mouth and make any necessary adjustments to the set’s alignment and length. The dentist will then order your final set of dentures so that your teeth and gums look as natural as possible.

 

Costs of Dental Implants and Dentures

Dental implants cost more than dentures. Each dentist’s office varies on price, but the American Dental Association (ADA) estimates that an implant runs from $1,600 to $2,200 per tooth. In comparison, the ADA reports that a patient can receive a complete set of upper or lower dentures for about $1,600. 

 

Maintenance of Dental Implants and Dentures

Caring for dental implants is as simple as caring for natural teeth. All you have to do is brush twice a day, floss once a day, and go to your regular checkups at Adam Brown DDS.

Dentures require more maintenance to remain effective. For instance, you must soak them overnight in water or a cleaning solution. You must also remove your dentures and brush them after each meal or snack, and you will need to ensure that you brush any adhesive revenue from your gums.

Another thing to consider is that you will need to have your dentures refitted now and then as your bite changes. Conversely, dental implants are permanent, though you might need to replace a cracked or broken crown. 

 

Choosing Between Dental Implants and Dentures

Your dentist can help you make the right decision concerning dental implants or dentures. But here are a few factors to consider when thinking about your dental future:

Age

Dental implants can last for decades, meaning that people in their sixties or younger might get the most out of these permanent prosthetic teeth. Many older adults prefer to get dentures because they don’t require a time-consuming or invasive procedure.

Jawbone Density

Before you get dental implants, your dentist must ensure there is enough jawbone material to support the posts. If there isn’t, implants might not be a viable solution. 

Age, gum disease, tooth loss, and injury are the most common culprits of jawbone loss. With that said, some dental practices perform bone grafting to support jawbone density, which could be a good option if you can afford the additional time and costs. 

Comfort and Effectiveness

In most cases, dental implants feel more comfortable than dentures, and they also make chewing and speaking feel more natural. There are implant-supported overdentures; however, they can provide better comfort and chewing efficacy than conventional dentures. 

Oral Hygiene

You also need to consider daily hygiene when choosing between dental implants and dentures. Dentures require more time and effort to keep viable, while implants are lower maintenance. Keep an honest assessment of how willing and able you are to care for your dentures each day. 

 

Can I Choose More Than One Dental Treatment?

Yes, it’s possible to get more than one dental treatment at a time. Let’s discuss your options:

Can I Wear Invisalign with Dental Implants?

Some patients receive a dental implant and wish to correct their crooked teeth somewhere down the road. Implants are permanent fixtures, meaning they will not move from their original position. But your dentist can use clear aligners to reposition all the surrounding teeth. Typically, you can still get Invisalign in this situation.

With that said, if you only have a few remaining natural teeth, Invisalign may not be the ideal option. Adam Brown DDS can thoroughly evaluate your situation and help you find the best solution. 

Which Treatment Should I Get First?

If you have not received dental implants or Invisalign treatment, you may be wondering which you should get first. Understand that Invisalign holds your natural teeth in their sockets and gradually moves them into proper alignment. 

On the other hand, dental implants attach directly to the jawbone, which bonds directly to the implant over time. Thus, implants are permanently fixed, and it is typically best to straighten your teeth with aligners before having implants inserted.

When your teeth are aligned before implant placement, it ensures that all your teeth are in their optimal positions. Then, you can replace missing teeth with implants and crowns that look natural and aesthetically pleasing with surrounding teeth. Furthermore, your dentist can ensure that the gap remains healthy during the Invisalign treatment.

Are Dental Bridges a Viable Alternative?

Dental bridges are another type of treatment for missing teeth. Dentists can use a dental bridge, sometimes called a fixed partial denture, to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Essentially, the bridge attaches to the surrounding teeth to support the mouth’s structure. 

Dental bridges are less expensive than implants, and most patients who receive them are satisfied with the result. However, some people are confused about the appropriate care and maintenance responsibilities, leading to bridges becoming ineffective or unsanitary. 

If you choose to get a bridge, ask your dentist for comprehensive care instructions to ensure your device works well and allows you to maintain oral hygiene. 

 

Conclusion

It’s 2022, and it could be the ideal time to upgrade your smile! While there are many available dental treatments, Invisalign, dental implants, and dentures are some of the most popular options among patients. 

Along with considering the information and advice above, contact Adam Brown DDS to schedule a consultation. We would love to speak with you, go over your options, and help you make the best decision for your future smile and dental health!

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