PREVENTION OF "MICROPLASTICS IN DENTISTRY" NEED OF THE HOUR -A REVIEW.

International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Volume 15, Number 5, 2025 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 – 5738 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17328247 1 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicationh[email protected]m 103 PREVENTION OF “MICROPLASTICS IN DENTISTRY" NEED OF THE HOUR -A REVIEW. Dr.B. LakshmanaRao 1 , Dr.K. Sridevi 2 , Dr.G. Sirisha 3 , Dr.A. Sathvika 4 , Dr.P.V. Vaibhav 5 . 1.Prof & HOD, Dept of Prosthodontics, Lenora Institute of Dental Sciences, Rajahmundry, A.P., 2. Prof & HOD, Dept of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Lenora Institute of Dental Sciences, Rajahmundry, A.P., 3. Reader, Dept of Prosthodontics, Lenora Institute of Dental Sciences, Rajahmundry, A.P., 4. Senior Lecturer, Dept of Prosthodontics, Lenora Institute of Dental Sciences, Rajahmundry, A.P., 5.Post Graduate Student, Dept of Prosthodontics, Lenora Institute of Dental Sciences, Rajahmundry, A.P. ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT ©2025 RS Publication Paper ID: IJPHC68E8DBBF96756 Received: 2025-09-11 Published: 2025-10-11 DOI: https://dx.doi.org /10.5281/zenodo.17 328247 Page No: 103-114 Microplastics (MPs) are synthetic polymer particles that are less than 5 mm in size and are becoming a common pollutant in the environment. They come from breaking down bigger plastics or being released directly into the environment by industries and hospitals. In recent years, more and more studies have shown that being exposed to microplastics can have harmful consequences on the body and the whole system, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular toxicity. Dentistry serves as both a source and a conduit for microplastic exposure, attributable to the utilization of polymer-based restorative, prosthetic, and orthodontic products. Polishing, trimming, and finishing resin composites, denture bases, and aligners during clinical dental treatments can make microplastics. Microplastics can also come from oral care products, single-use dental goods, and impression materials. These particles may interact with oral epithelial cells, gingival fibroblasts, and biofilms, causing oxidative stress, the release of inflammatory cytokines, and changes in the integrity of enamel and mucosa. Long-term exposure may lead to dysbiosis of the oral microbiome and irritation of the tissues. Preventive measures encompass the utilization of environmentally sustainable dental materials (such as bioceramics, bioactive glass ionomers, PEEK, and biodegradable polymers), the implementation of digital dentistry workflows to decrease polymer consumption, and the adoption of eco-friendly dental practices to mitigate single-use plastic usage. Future actions will focus on creating biodegradable materials, better filtration systems, and global rules to stop microplastics from getting into natural and clinical environments. This review elucidates the mechanisms by which microplastics infiltrate the oral cavity, their possible ramifications on oral and dental tissues, and existing and prospective preventive strategies to alleviate their effects. Key words: Microplastics; Dentistry; Oral health; Dental materials; Environmental pollution; Preventive dentistry; Green dentistry. Corresponding Author: Dr.B. LakshmanaRao, Mail: [email protected]. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 – 5738 Cite This Paper: LakshmanaRao Bathala, Dr. K. Sridevi , Dr. G. Sirisha, Dr. A. Sathvika and Dr. P. V. Vaibhav (2025). "PREVENTION OF “MICROPLASTICS IN DENTISTRY" NEED OF THE HOUR -A REVIEW.". INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH CARE (IJPHC), vol. 15, no. 5, 2025, pp. 103-114. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17328247 International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Volume 15, Number 5, 2025 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 – 5738 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17328247 1 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicationh[email protected]m 104 Introduction Microplastics (MPs) are man-made polymer particles that are less than 5 mm wide. They come about in one of two ways: [1-3] Primary microplastics are made on purpose, like in cosmetics, toothpaste, and industrial abrasives. Secondary microplastics are made when bigger plastic materials break down and break apart because of UV radiation, mechanical stress, or biodegradation. Because they don't break down, MPs are found everywhere, including in air, water, soil, food, and even living tissues like the mouth. [4-6] Microplastics' Effects on Health in General [4-8] 1. Ingestion and Bioaccumulation: Humans are exposed through food, drinking water, and inhalation. Microplastics have been detected in blood, feces, lungs, liver, and placenta, indicating systemic absorption and dispersion. 2. Cellular and Molecular Toxicity: MPs cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death in human cells. They can carry harmful compounds that have been adsorbed, like bisphenol A, phthalates, and heavy metals, which can mess with hormones and cause cancer. Long-term exposure may lead to metabolic disorders, cardiovascular ailments, reproductive problems, and immune system problems. 3. Effects on the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems: MPs that are breathed in can cause inflammation, fibrosis, and blockage of the airways. Exposure to the gut can cause an imbalance in the gut flora, inflammation in the intestines, and possibly malabsorption. 4. Neurotoxicity and Systemic Inflammation: Recent research indicates that MPs may traverse the blood-brain barrier, facilitating neuroinflammation and oxidative neuronal injury. Microplastics and Their Effects on Dental Health [9-12] 1. Oral Exposure and Biofilm Development Microplastics can stick to the surfaces of teeth and the lining of the mouth, providing a place for bacteria to grow and form biofilms (for example, Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis). This can make plaque build up on teeth and cause inflammation in the gums. 2. Effects on the Level of Tissue Research has demonstrated that MPs can provoke oxidative stress and the release of proinflammatory cytokines in gingival and pulp fibroblasts. Nanoplastics, which are MPs that are less than 100 nm in size, may be able to get into dentinal tubules and harm the pulp's health. 3. Effect on the Oral Microbiome MPs disrupt microbial diversity, fostering dysbiosis, which is linked to caries, periodontitis, and oral mucosal disorders. 4. Dental Materials and Work-Related Exposure Dental workers may come across MPs by polishing composite resin, grinding PMMA, or using microbeads in preventive pastes. Chronic inflammation and hypersensitivity reactions may be caused by inhalation or contact with mucous membranes. 5. Possible Interaction with Implant and Prosthetic Surfaces MPs that stick to prosthetic surfaces may make it easier for microbes to grow, which can impair the hygiene of the prosthesis and the health of the area around the implant. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Volume 15, Number 5, 2025 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 – 5738 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17328247 1 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicationh[email protected]m 105 Microplastic Sources in to the Human Body 1. Eating (Dietary Exposure) One of the main ways that microplastics get into the body is by eating and drinking. [13,14] a. Drinking Water Microplastics can be found in both bottled and tap water. Plastic wrapping and caps can leak MPs into bottled water, making it 10 to 100 times more likely to have them than tap water. Filtration systems and corrosion of pipelines are also factors. Some examples are polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polystyrene (PS). b. Sources of Food Seafood and shellfish are big sources since marine species eat MPs directly from the water. Table salt, sugar, and honey: These foods were tainted during making, processing, or packing. Fruits, vegetables, and grains: MPs that have fallen from the sky or come from irrigation water. Food packaging materials: Leaching when heated, microwaved, or stored. 2. Airborne Exposure Microplastics come from synthetic fibers, dust in the house, and pollution in cities. They are in the air inside and outside. Carpets, textiles, and furniture breaking down can make indoor air have higher amounts. Particles can settle in the respiratory tract and perhaps get into the bloodstream. [18,19] Polyamide (nylon), polyester, polyethylene, and acrylic fibers are among examples. 3. Absorption through the skin Even though skin penetration is limited, cosmetic and personal care products (including facial scrubs, toothpaste, and exfoliants) with microbeads can still be used on the skin. Extended contact or application on compromised skin may enhance nanoplastic absorption. [20,21] 4. Entry though mouth and teeth Microplastics can get into the mouth through dental work, oral care products, and dental materials. [20,21] a. Polishing Pastes and Toothpastes Older versions used microbeads (made of polyethylene or polypropylene) to clean by rubbing. People may still be exposed because of residual use or environmental pollution. b. Processing Dental Materials Polishing and grinding resin-based materials (composites, PMMA) can create microplastic dust that dental workers and patients could breathe in or touch. 5. Medical and Pharmaceutical source Microor nanoplastics may come out of intravenous infusions, syringes, and plastic medical devices. Under specific conditions of degradation, drug encapsulating systems composed of polymeric nanoparticles may be able to help. Important Points [22,23] The main ways people come into contact with it are via eating or breathing it in. Microplastics transport heavy metals, endocrine disruptors, and infections.Cumulative exposure endangers both systemic and oral health. Due to the way materials are processed, dentistry might be a unique place where people are exposed to microplastics at work. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Volume 15, Number 5, 2025 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 – 5738 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17328247 1 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicationh[email protected]m 106 Microplastics in the Mouth: Where They Come From and What They Do Microplastics (MPs) are synthetic polymer particles that are less than 5 mm in size. They are typically created during dental treatments, oral care, and the breakdown of dental materials. The mouth is a major entry point for these particles. Because MPs are directly exposed to the mucosa, they can interact with teeth, soft tissues, biofilms, and restorative surfaces in the mouth. This can affect both local oral health and systemic exposure. Microplastics in the Mouth: Where They Come From A. Through Dental Procedures [7,24] (i) Grinding, polishing, and finishing resin-based materials When you grind, polish, trim, or alter composite resins, PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), polycarbonate, or provisional materials, they release microplastic debris. High-speed rotary tools make particles that are very small, in the microand nanoscale. These particles can float in the air or stay on the surfaces of teeth and mucous membranes. Effects: Breathing in by dentists and patients. Local mucosal contact resulting in mechanical irritation and persistent inflammation. (ii) Procedures for sandblasting and air-abrasion Microbeads and resin particles made of alumina and polymer can add MPs when they are employed to roughen, clean, or fix surfaces. Leftover particles may stick to restorations, gums, or the edges of prosthetics. Effects: They may act as foreign entities, causing local inflammation. Encourage germs to stick to surfaces and form biofilms. [25] (iii) Processing and Adjusting Dentures • During trimming, polishing, or relining, PMMA denture base materials let out MPs. • Grinding acrylic resin makes particles that are 10 to 100 µm in size. Effects: • Contact with mucous membranes can cause mechanical damage, hypersensitivity, and inflammation. • People who wear dentures for a long time may get biofilm-mediated mucositis that gets worse when MP builds up. [26,27] B. Products for Oral Care (i) Toothpastes and polishing pastes • Older commercial toothpastes and polishing pastes used polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) microbeads as abrasives and polishing agents. • Even though they are outlawed in many countries, residual or imported formulations may still add MPs to oral exposure. Effects: MPs stick to teeth and gums, making surfaces for bacterial biofilms including Streptococcus mutans and P. gingivalis. • Long-term retention causes plaque to build up, gums to become inflamed, and enamel to wear out because of mechanical friction. [28,29] (ii) Mouthrinses and Dental Prophylaxis Pastes Some prophylaxis pastes and mouthwashes used in professional cleanings may have synthetic polymer abrasives or carriers in them. These can stay in the mouth after use as MPs. Effect: • Temporary adhesion to the mucosa; long-term exposure could cause oxidative stress in gingival epithelial cells. [30] C. Dental Materials (i) Restorative Materials Based on Resin • Hydrolysis, wear, and abrasion can break down polymer-based materials like Bis-GMA, International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Volume 15, Number 5, 2025 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 – 5738 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17328247 1 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicationh[email protected]m 107 UDMA, TEGDMA, PMMA, and others over time, producing microplastic fragments. • Orthodontic retainers, temporary crowns, and composite restorations are possible long-term sources. Effects: • The release of nanoplastic fragments and leftover monomers is harmful to gingival fibroblasts and pulp cells and can cause inflammation. • It may slow down tissue repair and cell viability. [31,32] (ii) Orthodontic and prosthodontic devices • Clear aligners, occlusal splints, and temporary crowns made of polycarbonate or PET-G break down over time due to mechanical wear and salivary hydrolysis, which releases MPs into saliva. Effects: • May induce irritation or immunological reactions in the area. • MPs in saliva may stick to teeth and oral biofilms, making the risk of cavities and gum inflammation worse. [33,34] Effects of Microplastics on Oral Tissues and Teeth Site/Structure Effect of Microplastics Mechanism Oral Mucosa Inflammation, oxidative stress, epithelial disruption Physical irritation, cytokine activation (IL - 6, TNF - α) Gingiva Gingivitis, fibroblast apoptosis ROS generation, mitochondrial damage Pulp and Dentin Potential pulpal inflammation, reduced odontoblastic activity Penetration of nanoplastics through dentinal tubules Teeth Surface abrasion, micro-roughness, enhanced plaque retention Mechanical friction of microbeads and particles Saliva and Oral Microbiome Dysbiosis, biofilm formation MPs act as bacterial substrates Prosthesis/Implant Surfaces Microbial colonization, biofilm maturation MPs enhance surface roughness and hydrophobicity • Most dental microplastics come from polishing, resin-based procedures, and oral care products. • They stick to oral tissues, change the microbiome, and cause oxidative stress and inflammation. • Nanoplastics (<100 nm) may penetrate epithelial barriers and impair pulpal and gingival health. • Dental practitioners face occupational exposure via aerosolized MPs during grinding and polishing. Dental Materials That Generate Microplastics and Their Alternatives 1. Composite resins, which are resin-based restorative materials Microplastic Source: [35,36] • Bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA), urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA), and inorganic fillers make up dental composites. • Microand nano-particles of resin are released into saliva and wastewater during polishing, finishing, and deterioration in the mouth. • These pieces are called secondary microplastics because they come from the breakdown of International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Volume 15, Number 5, 2025 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 – 5738 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17328247 1 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicationh[email protected]m 108 bigger polymer structures. Alternatives: • Bioactive glass ionomer cements (GICs) and resin-modified GICs (which have less plastic in them). • Restoratives based on bioceramics, like calcium silicate cements and GICs with zirconia added. • Future options: Biodegradable polymeric composites that use polylactic acid (PLA) or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) as their base. 2. Acrylic resins (polymethyl methacrylate—PMMA) Microplastic Source: [37,38] • PMMA is a common material for orthodontic retainers, temporary crowns, and denture bases. • It loses microplastics as it is polished, worn, or chewed. • PMMA residues from grinding and adjusting go into the waterlines and waste streams of dental units. Alternatives: Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) are highperformance thermoplastics that are more biocompatible and shed less particles. • PMMA discs that have been CAD/CAM machined make less microplastics than regular heatcured or self-cured resins. • PMMA derivatives made from bio-based materials and reinforced with cellulose or natural fibers. 3. Materials for polishing and finishing teeth Microplastic Source: [39,40] • Nylon, polyester, or polyethylene are common materials for abrasive polishing pastes, discs, and cups. • These materials break down when used, letting out tiny bits of plastic. Alternatives: • Polishing media that break down naturally, including cellulose or plant-based abrasives. • Reusable metal polishers with diamond or alumina nano-abrasives built in. • Digital finishing solutions (CAD/CAM milling, laser polishing) help cut down on hand abrasion. 4. Dental Impression Materials Microplastic Source: [41,42] • Vinyl polysiloxane (VPS) and polyether impression materials are polymers made of silicone that can lose nanoand micro-particles when they are cut or cleaned. • Impression trays, which are commonly made of polypropylene or polystyrene, also add to plastic waste. • Digital intraoral scanning (IOS)—no need for physical impressions. • Researchers are working on biodegradable alginate alternatives made from polysaccharides found in plants. • Stainless steel trays that can be used again instead of plastic ones that can only be used once. 5. Orthodontic Materials Microplastic Source: [43,44] • Aligners and retainers made of polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) and polycarbonate can let out microparticles when they are worn down or when the temperature changes. • Plastic-coated archwires and elastomeric ligatures also help. Alternatives: • Thermoplastic aligners that break down in the environment and are made from plant-based polymers (in the development stage). • Aligners made of biopolymers that are 3D-printed utilizing PLA or PCL (polycaprolactone). • Metal or ceramic brackets that have less plastic in them. 6. Disposable Dental products Microplastic Source: [45,46] International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Volume 15, Number 5, 2025 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 – 5738 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17328247 1 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicationh[email protected]m 109 • When you throw away or break down plastic suction tips, saliva ejectors, disposable cups, and gloves, they make microplastics. Options include biodegradable plastics made from starch, paper, or bamboo, as well as stainless steel or silicone goods that may be used again and again. • Using green dental methods to cut down on single-use plastics. Prevention of Microplastic Entry into the Human Body 1. Environmental and source reduction measures a. Use less plastic [47] • Use less plastic that can only be used once, like bottles, straws, cutlery, and packaging. • For storage and drinking, use glass, stainless steel, or bamboo instead. • Support regulations that promote the use of biodegradable and environmentally friendly products. b.Better waste management and filtering [29] • Use HEPA filters in indoor areas to catch tiny plastic fibers that are in the air. • Use microplastic filters or reverse osmosis devices to clean drinking water. • Help community-level wastewater filtration systems so that microplastics don't get into bodies of water. 2. Precautions for diet and lifestyle a. Drink water that has been boiled or filtered [13] • More than 90% of MPs can be removed using reverse osmosis, activated carbon, and ceramic filters. • Don't drink bottled water because it has a lot more MPs than tap water. b. Don't eat food that has been stored or heated in plastic [8] • Don't microwave or heat food in plastic containers since they might absorb MPs and additives. • Use glass or ceramic containers for hot meals and drinks. c. Pick foods that are fresh and not processed [19] • Foods that have been processed and packed have more microplastics in them. · Wash fresh fruits and vegetables well to get rid of MPs that have settled on them from irrigation or the air. d. Lower the risk of breathing in [22] • Open windows and doors to let fresh air in, and cut down on synthetic fabrics (like polyester and nylon) that shed MPs. • Use natural fabrics like cotton, silk, and wool in clothes and bedding. • Use a vacuum with HEPA filters to get rid of dust that has microplastics in it. 3. Ways to prevent oral and dental problems a. Choosing Dental Materials [32] • When appropriate, pick materials that are biocompatible and don't break down easily (such ceramics, metals, and glass ionomers). • Don't polish or grind resin-based materials more than you need to. • Get manufacturers to make composites that don't shed and polishing pastes that are safe for the environment. b. Safety Measures at the Dental Clinic [31] International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Volume 15, Number 5, 2025 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 – 5738 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17328247 1 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicationh[email protected]m 110 • To lower the number of aerosolized MPs, use high-volume suction and rubber dams when grinding or polishing. • To avoid breathing in too much, wear the right personal protective equipment (PPE), like masks, shields, and gloves. • Put air purifiers with HEPA filters in dental offices. c. Choosing Safe Oral Care Products [29] • Pick toothpastes and polishing agents that don't have microbeads in them and can break down naturally. • Don't use cosmetic toothpastes or scrubs that have synthetic abrasives in them, like polyethylene or polypropylene. • Choose toothpastes that are made from herbs or minerals that have been shown to be safe for the environment. 4. Public and Professional Awareness [9] • Teach dentists and patients about where microplastics come from and how to avoid them. • Encourage dental clinics to throw away their trash in a way that is good for the environment. • Get people to take part in research and monitoring initiatives that look into exposure to oral microplastics. 5. Emerging and Future Strategies [47,48] Strategy Description Current Status Nanofiltration Systems Removes MPs from water and air using ultrafine membranes Commercial prototypes available Biodegradable Dental Materials Replacing polymeric resins with bioresorbable materials Research stage Green Dentistry Programs Minimizing waste and using sustainable dental products Adopted in some institutions Public Regulation Microbead bans in cosmetics and dental pastes in >50 countries Expanding globally Future Preventive Measures to Reduce Microplastic Ingestion 1. Making materials that are good for the environment and can break down naturally Future advancements aim to replace traditional plastics with biodegradable polymers including polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and starch-based materials that break down naturally without generating microplastics. • In dentistry, researchers are looking into eco-friendly options for toothbrushes, floss, and impression materials that don't contain plastic. • Investigating biocompatible resins and nanocomposites may mitigate synthetic microplastic release during dental operations. [49,50] 2. Advanced systems for filtering and treating water New nanofiltration and membrane-based water purification technologies are being made to get rid of microplastics in drinking water sources. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Health Care Volume 15, Number 5, 2025 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijphc/index.html ISSN 2249 – 5738 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17328247 1 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, rspublicationh[email protected]m 111 • Activated carbon filters and ultrafiltration membranes can catch things that are less than 1 μm in size. • AI-based sensors are planned to be used in future municipal water treatment plants to keep an eye on microplastic contamination in real time. [51] 3. Intelligent technologies for managing and recycling waste AI-powered sorting systems, enzymatic plastic degradation, and closed-loop recycling will all be part of next-generation trash management. These technologies will help keep waste from leaking into the environment. PETase and MHETase are two enzymes that can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) very well, which lowers the number of possible sources of microplastics. [52] 4. New ideas in the science of dental materials Future dental research aims to develop low-shedding dental composites, sealants, and impression materials that reduce microplastic emissions. • Making resin matrices with better cross-linking and biodegradable filler particles may stop micro-debris from forming. • Digital dentistry processes (CAD/CAM, 3D printing) may further cut down on the requirement for waste plastic parts. [53,54] 5. Personal Steps to Stay Safe • Don't use plastic utensils or food containers that can only be used once. • Get your water from certified microplastic-free sources and filter it or buy it in bottles. • Use biodegradable oral care items instead (such bamboo toothbrushes and silk floss). • Cut back on eating seafood, especially shellfish that are known to collect microplastics. [55] 6. Global Policy and Regulatory Frameworks • Putting into place worldwide rules for managing plastic, like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and restrictions on microbeads in cosmetics. • WHO and UNEP-led efforts to monitor and regulate microplastics are encouraging countries to work together. [56,57] 7. Public Awareness, Education, and Research [29,57] • Encouraging education at the community level on microplastic pollution. • Long-term epidemiological investigations to find out what happens when people are exposed to microplastics for a long time. • dentistry schools and health professionals ought to incorporate training modules addressing microplastic-related health impacts and environmentally responsible dentistry procedures. Conclusion Microplastics have become a quiet but important environmental and health issue in dentistry. The regular usage of polymer-based materials, like resin composites, acrylic resins, impression materials, and orthodontic aligners, causes microplastics to be released when they are worn down, polished, trimmed, or thrown away. These particles not only pollute clinical wastewater, but they can also interact with tissues in the mouth, which could cause inflammation and oxidative stress. Switching to eco-friendly and long-lasting dental materials like bioceramics, bioactive glass ionomers, PEEK/PEKK polymers, and biodegradable options is a promising way to cut down on microplastic pollution. Also, combining digital procedures like CAD/CAM and intraoral scanning can greatly cut down on the requirement for plastic parts that can only be used once. To protect both oral and environmental health, it will be important to adopt green dentistry practices, improve