Exploration of the Formation Characteristics of Biofilm During Invisible Orthodontic Treatment and Its Correlation with Orthodontic Pain

Abstract

Invisible orthodontics has become one of the mainstream methods of orthodontics due to its advantages such as aesthetics, comfort, and removal. However, orthodontic pain still seriously affects patients' treatment compliance. Oral biofilm is the core of oral microbiota, and its formation and evolution are regulated by factors such as appliance wearing and changes in oral environment. This article reviews the research on changes in oral microbiota during invisible orthodontic treatment, clarifies the formation stages, components, and structural characteristics of biofilms, analyzes their association mechanism with orthodontic pain, and explores the impact pathway of biofilm inflammation on periodontal pain perception. Research has found that wearing invisible orthodontic appliances can alter the local physical barriers and microenvironment of the oral cavity, promoting the formation of pathogenic bacterial biofilms mainly composed of streptococci and actinomycetes; Biofilm releases inflammatory factors and metabolic products that stimulate periodontal nerves, or worsen periodontitis, thereby exacerbating orthodontic pain. This article aims to provide theoretical basis for clinical regulation of oral biofilm to prevent and alleviate pain related to invisible orthodontic treatment, and to provide reference for optimizing treatment plans and improving patient experience.