Question from EMG
My dentist recently suggested I consider Invisalign braces. In considering the option it occured to me to investigate the safety/toxicity of the materials used. On the Invisalign website this is what it says about the materials used:
“Invisalign aligners and Vivera Retainers do not contain Bisphenol-A or phthalate plasticizers. These aligners and retainers are made with USP Class VI medical grade, high molecular weight, polyurethane resins. Tests have been conducted to determine the biocompatibility of these materials, and show that they are biocompatible and pass all applicable regulatory requirements and thresholds for human wear in the mouth. Of course, as with any medical device, you should consult with your health professional about your aligner or retainer treatment and any applicable risks of use.”
So they sound safe to me, but I thought I’d check to see if anything about this statement causes any red flags to go up out there… Thanks!
Debra’s Answer
You can read about polyurethane at Q&A: The Toxicity of Polyurethane.
I did a Clifford Test to see if I would react. The test said it was safe for me and I’ve been wearing one for 5 years at night with no problems. My natural dentist recommended both to me.
Does anyone know about the toxicity of regular metal braces?
My son has worn regular braces for the last 2 years. I am sensitive to metals as well as plastics, and it turns out my son is sensitive to metals as well. Some of the metal-toxicity-related side effects he is experiencing include depression, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, lack of appetite, muscle and joint pain, inability to focus, and headaches (although the headaches are also partly from braces adjustments too). We are currently looking at switching to Invisalign, although it would most likely only be a matter of time before he develops a sensitivity to the polyurethane as well. So I am not sure what the right answer to braces is, but I am hoping he will have enough energy to return to school.
PLEASE give him PureBody Liquid Zeolite detox drops to reduce the overload of heavy metals in his body. It will make a difference.
I wonder what safe options for braces exist if any. Metals contain alloys and so many people sensitize. Polyurethane is icky too. Looks like there is a market for truly nontoxic braces made from pure titanium grade 4 or something….someone should do that! They’d make a lot of money as more people become aware of the reality of toxins…
My daughter recently used Invisilign teeth straightening trays for 18 months, until we realized her growing allergic/adverse reaction to them. It seems clear that there was a build up of chemicals, overtime, in her system. Invisilign trays are made of polypropylene. Now, as a mom, I feel like such an idiot for not thinking about the ramifications of keeping polypropylene in my daughter’s mouth, for 22 hours a day, for almost 2 years.