Dentures release microplastics during daily use and grinding, raising health concerns
A new peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials has revealed that dentures release microplastics (MPs) during daily use and common dental procedures, including brushing and grinding — a finding that raises significant health concerns for both denture wearers and dental professionals.
Researchers found that resin-based denture materials release minimal but consistent levels of microplastics into the oral cavity and surrounding environment. The release occurs not only through daily wear but also during procedures like grinding, which showed a significant surge in microplastic particle count.
“Denture resins release small amounts of MPs during daily use, which may accumulate in the oral cavity and other organs over time,” the researchers noted.
Problem at a glance: microplastic exposure from dentures
- Cellular toxicity tests revealed that MPs released during dental procedures can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in human cells.
- MPs were shown to damage oral keratinocytes and trigger inflammatory responses in macrophages.
- Grinding of denture materials was flagged as a potential occupational health hazard for dental workers due to the higher concentration of airborne MPs.
- Researchers warn that this hidden exposure could pose long-term health risks, particularly if dentures are worn beyond their recommended life span.
How the study was conducted
To mimic real-life conditions, dentures were soaked in artificial saliva for seven days. Samples from three groups — brushing, denture cleanser tablets, and a control group — were tested. The findings:
- Brushing group: 277.13 particles/1,000 mL (2.44% MPs)
- Cleanser group: 208 particles/1,000 mL (4.47% MPs)
- Control group: 388.47 particles/1,000 mL (1.77% MPs)
While the control group showed the highest total particles, it had the lowest percentage of actual microplastics, indicating that cleaning methods may influence the rate and nature of microplastic release.
Microplastics: A growing health concern in dentistry
This research aligns with a broader trend of concern over microplastic exposure in daily life. Microplastics have already been detected in breast milk, infant formula, and even placentas — and now, dentures join the list of potential contributors.
Other highlights from the study:
- The majority of microplastics were beads, followed by fragments and some fibers.
- MPs can settle on surfaces in dental clinics, decreasing in concentration with distance from the grinding source.
- Denture wearers may unknowingly experience chronic low-level exposure to harmful particles over time.
Recommendations for patients and professionals
To mitigate these risks, researchers recommend:
- Regular denture replacement as advised by dental professionals.
- Avoiding excessive wear of old dentures.
- Improved air filtration and personal protective equipment (PPE) for dental professionals during grinding procedures.
- Further innovation in biocompatible and low-release dental materials.
Not all denture news is negative
Interestingly, another study cited from Aging Medicine highlighted the cognitive benefits of wearing dentures, showing that older adults with dentures had better baseline cognitive function and slower mental decline.
Still, experts emphasize that while dentures are essential for oral rehabilitation, their composition and maintenance must be improved to minimize hidden environmental and biological risks.
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