Night guards are commonly used dental appliances to protect teeth from grinding during sleep. However, recent concerns have emerged regarding the potential release of microplastics from these devices. This blog post examines the current scientific understanding of microplastics in night guards and their potential health implications.

Composition of Night Guards

Night guards are typically made from plastic-based materials such as acrylic, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), and certain resins. The specific composition can vary depending on the manufacturer and type of night guard. Some common materials include:

• Copolyester (for hard night guards)
• Ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (for soft night guards)
• Silicone-based polymers
• BPA-free thermoplastics

Potential for Microplastic Release

While night guards are designed to be durable, there is growing concern about the potential degradation of these materials over time, possibly leading to the release of microplastics. Microplastics are defined as plastic particles less than 5 mm in size. Recent research has begun to investigate this possibility:

1. A study published in 2023 evaluated the potential detachment of microplastics from clear orthodontic aligners due to mechanical friction. The study found that all tested aligners released some level of microplastics, with particle sizes ranging from 5 to 20 μm.
2. Another study in 2024 assessed microplastics in various oral healthcare products, including toothbrushes, toothpastes, and mouthwashes. While this study did not specifically examine night guards, it highlighted the presence of microplastics in dental care products.

Factors Influencing Microplastic Release

Several factors may influence the potential release of microplastics from night guards:

1. Material composition
2. Manufacturing process
3. Usage duration and frequency
4. Grinding intensity
5. Cleaning methods

Health Implications

The health implications of potential microplastic ingestion from night guards are not yet fully understood. However, research on microplastics in general suggests some concerns:

1. Oxidative stress: Microplastics may induce oxidative stress in cells, potentially leading to inflammation and tissue damage.
2. Cellular uptake: Plastic particles can be taken up by cells through various mechanisms, potentially affecting cellular functions.
3. Chemical leaching: Additives in plastics, such as bisphenols and phthalates, may leach out and potentially cause adverse health effects.

Current Research Limitations

It’s important to note that specific research on microplastic release from night guards is limited. Most studies have focused on other dental appliances or general oral healthcare products. More targeted research is needed to fully understand the extent of microplastic release from night guards and its potential health impacts.

Recommendations

While the scientific community continues to investigate this issue, individuals concerned about microplastic exposure from night guards may consider the following:

1. Consult with a dentist about alternative materials, such as silicone-based night guards.
2. Regularly inspect and replace night guards as recommended by dental professionals.
3. Properly clean and store night guards to minimize potential degradation.

In conclusion, while the potential for microplastic release from night guards exists, more research is needed to quantify the risk and understand its health implications. The benefits of using night guards to prevent dental damage should be weighed against these potential concerns in consultation with a dental professional. At the moment, our guess is that the benefits of not grinding your teeth down to stubs is totally worth it. In the meantime, you can read up on how to avoid the 9 major side effects from wearing night guards.

Alternatively if you’re looking for an option to *potentially* reduce your need for a night guard, and you could try applying heat and massage regularly before bed. We’re partnered with YourTMJ Pen and love their story and device for applying pinpoint heat and massage to your masseter muscles. Save $15 with our link!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Do night guards release microplastics into the mouth?

Research on microplastic release from night guards is still limited, but early studies on similar dental devices (like clear aligners) suggest that plastic-based appliances can shed tiny microplastic particles over time. Factors like grinding intensity, cleaning methods, and material composition may increase the likelihood of microplastic release.

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2. Are BPA-free or silicone night guards safer for reducing microplastic exposure?

Yes, BPA-free and silicone-based night guards are generally considered safer alternatives because they avoid certain chemical additives found in other plastics. However, even BPA-free thermoplastics may still degrade into microplastics with heavy use. Discussing material options with your dentist can help you choose a guard that balances durability, comfort, and lower risk of microplastic release.

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3. What are the potential health risks of ingesting microplastics from night guards?

The long-term health effects of microplastic exposure are not fully understood. Current research suggests possible risks including oxidative stress (which can damage cells), inflammation, and chemical leaching from additives like phthalates. While the risks are still being studied, the proven benefits of night guards in preventing tooth damage usually outweigh these potential concerns.

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4. How can I minimize microplastic exposure from my night guard?

To reduce potential microplastic release, choose a high-quality or custom-fitted night guard, clean it properly with non-abrasive methods, and replace it as recommended by your dentist. Avoid exposing your night guard to hot water, harsh cleaners, or extended wear beyond its intended lifespan. These steps help minimize degradation and keep your night guard both safe and effective.