Aligners do shed microplastics: Evidence is clear, clinical risk is not

Key Points

• This research investigates the occurrence of microplastics released from dental aligners and their potential clinical implications.
• Analysis of aligners under controlled laboratory conditions to assess microplastics shedding.
• Review of existing regulations regarding manufacturing practices and labeling of dental products.
• Microplastics were detected in all tested aligners, indicating shedding during use.
• Current regulations on good manufacturing practices do not adequately address microplastics.
• Clinicians should consider the implications of microplastics when recommending aligners for patients.