SDS Sheets & Material Statement

Acrylic used in orthodontic retainers typically does not contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Here’s a breakdown:

1. What is used in retainers:

Orthodontic retainers (like Hawley retainers) are usually made from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), a type of acrylic plastic. PMMA is not a PFAS chemical and does not require PFAS for its manufacture.

2. What are PFAS?

PFAS are a large group of synthetic chemicals known for their water- and grease-resistant properties. They’re found in things like non-stick coatings, stain-resistant fabrics, and some firefighting foams. They’re not typically associated with dental materials like PMMA.

3. Exceptions:

• Indirect exposure: If a manufacturer uses processing aids, lubricants, or packaging materials that contain PFAS, there’s a slight chance of contamination. However, this is uncommon and not intrinsic to the acrylic itself.

• Adhesives or coatings: If a retainer has additional coatings for durability or aesthetics, it’s worth checking if those layers contain any fluorinated compounds, though again, this is rare.

Conclusion:

Standard acrylic used in orthodontic retainers does not inherently contain PFAS. If you’re concerned about PFAS exposure from dental products, you can review the  material safety data sheets (MSDS) provided on this page.