In modern life, silicone products, due to their softness, safety, and easy-to-clean properties, are widely used in oral care, children's products, sports protection, and stress relief tools. From baby teething rings to adult mouthguards for nighttime bruxism, from sports mouthguards to stress-relieving chew toys, silicone products seem to have become a universal choice for many people to relieve anxiety and protect their teeth. However, is this seemingly harmless habit truly harmless to dental health?
Silicone Material "Safety Threshold": Compliance is the Key Prerequisite
The safety of silicone products depends first and foremost on whether the material complies with international and regional standards. High-quality food-grade silicone must pass total migration testing (i.e., the release of harmful substances at high temperatures must not exceed safety thresholds), heavy metal content testing (such as lead, mercury, and cadmium), and physical property testing (such as tensile strength and resilience). Studies have shown that after heating compliant silicone at 100°C for two hours, the total migration level is only 0.5-2 mg/dm², far below the 10 mg/dm² standard required by most countries, and there is no risk of heavy metal precipitation. However, the hidden dangers of inferior silicone cannot be ignored. Some non-standard products may contain plasticizers (such as phthalates), industrial dyes, or recycled materials, which can release carcinogens such as formaldehyde and benzene under high temperatures or prolonged use. Furthermore, silicone with a low elastic modulus (too soft) can easily deform and harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of oral infection. Silicone with a high elastic modulus (too hard) can cause stress concentration and wear on tooth enamel. Therefore, choosing silicone products with reputable certifications (such as FDA, CE, and SGS) is the first step to ensuring oral safety.
The "Mechanical Risks" of Chewing: The Critical Point from Relief to Harm
When chewing silicone products, the interaction between teeth and silicone involves complex mechanical processes. The elastic modulus (a measure of material stiffness) of silicone directly influences stress distribution during chewing: a higher elastic modulus results in greater instantaneous pressure on the teeth; a lower elastic modulus results in a more even pressure distribution but may last longer. These mechanical properties may cause the following problems:
Enamel Wear and Microcracks
Long-term chewing of silicone products may cause microabrasion or hidden cracks on the enamel surface, particularly at the cervical region (where the tooth meets the gum). Enamel is the hardest part of the tooth, but it is only approximately 2-2.5 mm thick and cannot be regenerated once worn. A study using scanning electron microscopy found that after three months of continuous chewing of silicone products, the surface roughness of the enamel increased significantly, increasing the risk of dental caries.
Periodontal Tissue Damage
Excessive forceful chewing or unilateral chewing can compress the gums and alveolar bone, leading to gum recession or loose teeth. Periodontal tissues are sensitive to pressure, and prolonged localized pressure can disrupt the blood supply to the periodontal ligament and accelerate alveolar bone resorption. Clinical data show that long-term use of silicone products in patients with periodontal disease may accelerate alveolar bone resorption by 20%-30%.
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
Chewing involves complex movements of the temporomandibular joint. Long-term overuse or improper posture can cause joint clicking, pain, or limited mouth opening. The elastic properties of silicone products may alter muscle contraction patterns during chewing, leading to masseter muscle hypertrophy or uneven joint loading. Some users, relying on silicone stress-relieving toys to relieve anxiety, may instead develop TMD due to excessive chewing frequency.
The "Hidden Traps" of Usage: A Lifecycle Challenge from Children to Elderly
Different populations have varying tolerances for silicone products due to their physiological characteristics and intended use. The following scenarios require special attention:
Infants and Children: Design Flaws and Neglected Cleaning
Infant teethers should be one-piece, non-porous designs to prevent bacterial growth. Products with crevices or difficult-to-clean structures can harbor residual milk or food debris, which can become a breeding ground for caries-causing bacteria. Furthermore, children who rely on silicone teethers for long-term relief from teething discomfort may experience tooth enamel wear or altered bite due to improper chewing pressure.
Teenagers and Athletes: Misconceptions About Sports Mouthguards
Sports mouthguards must be customized to individual oral structures to ensure a secure fit and cushioning effect. Universal silicone mouthguards can cause tooth displacement or joint damage due to improper sizing. Especially during high-speed sports, concentrated pressure can lead to tooth fractures or root resorption.
Bruxism Patients: Lack of Maintenance for Custom Mouthguards
Bruxism patients often use silicone mouthguards for protection. However, if they are not regularly adjusted and cleaned, concentrated pressure can lead to tooth wear and worsening periodontal disease due to tooth loss. Long-term use of the same mouthguard can also reduce its protective effectiveness due to material aging and increase stress on the temporomandibular joint.
Scientific Usage Recommendations: A "Rational Approach" that Balances Risks and Benefits
Material Selection: Look for Authoritative Certifications and Test Reports
When purchasing silicone products, prioritize products certified to international standards (such as FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 and EN 71-3). Also, review data such as total migration and heavy metal content from third-party testing agencies. Avoid products with fragrances, pigments, or pungent scents to reduce the risk of allergies.
Usage and Frequency Control
Infants and Toddlers: Use no more than three times daily, each time for no more than 10 minutes. Sterilize with boiling water and dry immediately after use.
Adults: Use stress-relieving chew toys for no more than 15 minutes daily, avoiding constant pressure. Those with bruxism should replace their custom-made mouthguards every six months and undergo regular dental checkups.
Athletes: Choose custom-made sports mouthguards, which are remade each season to ensure a proper fit.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Extending Lifespan and Safety
Wash silicone products daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild toothpaste. Avoid using detergents containing alcohol or abrasives.
Store in a dry, well-ventilated place away from high temperatures (such as hot water or hot drinks).
Soak and disinfect regularly with a dedicated cleaning solution to reduce bacterial growth.
Explore Alternatives: Reduce Dependence on Silicone
Infants and toddlers can use frozen towels or silicone spoons (not chew toys) to relieve teething discomfort. Adults can replace silicone products with exercise, meditation, or chewing sugar-free gum (containing xylitol).
Those who suffer from bruxism should consult their dentist and consider muscle relaxants or biofeedback therapy.
The popularity of silicone products reflects the public's dual needs for oral health and emotional management, but their safety is not absolute. By choosing compliant products, controlling frequency of use, strengthening cleaning and maintenance, and exploring alternatives, we can minimize the potential harms of silicone products.