The doctor warned about the effect of the aligner material on oral health

Aligners have become one of the most popular technologies in modern orthodontics due to their aesthetics and convenience. Transparent mouth guards are almost invisible on the teeth and allow you to adjust the bite without using metal structures, however, the method has features that patients often do not know about. Maxim Labukhin, medical director of the MIA CLINIC network, told Izvestia about this on May 8.

"Aligners are an enclosed space between the mouthpiece and the tooth, where saliva and microflora accumulate. Under these conditions, the natural protective function of saliva is weaker, and the risk of bacterial biofilm formation increases," the expert explained.

He noted that in patients with good hygiene, these processes are usually controlled, but in the presence of gum inflammation, tooth sensitivity or enamel disorders, the risks increase.

According to the specialist, two main types of aligners are used on the market: thermoformed caps made of medical polymers (TPU, PETG) and systems created by 3D printing from photopolymer resins. At the same time, differences in the surface structure of materials can affect the accumulation of plaque and the attachment of microorganisms.

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"Micro-dimensional surfaces, especially in 3D-printed caps, can contribute to more active biofilm formation. As a result, the risk of caries, gum inflammation and mucosal irritation increases," Labukhin added.

He stressed that for most patients the difference may be insignificant, but for people at risk — with gingivitis, periodontitis, enamel thinning or gum recession — the choice of material is crucial.

The expert also recalled the importance of strict adherence to hygiene rules during treatment. Aligners should be worn 20-22 hours a day, removed only during meals and brushing teeth, and the mouth guards themselves should be cleaned regularly according to the doctor's recommendations. After each meal, teeth should be thoroughly cleaned before reinstalling the structure.

Labukhin paid special attention to the lifestyle of patients: smoking and poor hygiene significantly increase the risk of complications for both the oral cavity and the orthodontic systems themselves.

Dentist Marina Kolesnichenko said on April 27 that brushing your teeth more than twice a day is not recommended. According to the expert, it is better to simply rinse your mouth with water after eating.: It helps to reduce acidity, stimulates saliva production and promotes natural cleansing of the oral cavity.