Clear aligners have become an increasingly popular alternative to conventional fixed orthodontic appliances due to their aesthetic advantages, improved comfort, and removability during eating and oral hygiene procedures. However, prolonged aligner wear may influence the oral ecosystem and affect oral homeostasis. Current evidence suggests that clear aligners can promote biofilm accumulation and induce changes in the composition of oral microbiota. Although they generally facilitate better oral hygiene compared with fixed appliances, alterations in bacterial colonization and gingival parameters have been reported. These changes may contribute to dental plaque accumulation, gingival inflammation, and enamel demineralization. Understanding the effects of clear aligners on the oral environment is essential for implementing effective preventive strategies and for maintaining oral health throughout orthodontic treatment.
Keywords: clear aligners, oral biofilm, dental plaque, oral microbiome, gingival health.