A new review takes a close look at the environmental footprint of clear aligner therapy, the popular teeth-straightening treatment. The review, which examined 13 studies, found that clear aligners contribute to plastic waste, microplastic generation, and greenhouse gas emissions throughout their life cycle, from manufacturing to disposal.
The review also identified potential ways to make aligners more sustainable. These include using biodegradable materials, adopting direct 3D printing technologies, improving recycling initiatives, and embracing circular economy approaches. These strategies align with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including those focused on industry, innovation, responsible consumption, and climate action.
However, putting these ideas into practice faces real-world hurdles. The review points to limited recycling infrastructure, economic considerations, and a lack of high-quality evidence as major barriers. Because this is a scoping review, it doesn't provide definitive proof that any single strategy works; it's more of a roadmap for future research and policy.
For now, the takeaway is that while clear aligners offer aesthetic and comfort benefits, their environmental cost is a growing concern. Patients and providers can be aware of these issues, but broader change will require industry and regulatory efforts. If you're considering clear aligners, talk to your orthodontist about your options and any sustainability practices they may already have in place.
