Invisalign trays, with their sleek and clear design, offer an effective way to straighten teeth without the need for traditional metal braces. However, they come with a recycling challenge. Made from a proprietary blend of materials, including polyurethane resins, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, and 1.6-hexanediol, Invisalign trays aren’t accepted by standard recycling programs.

Let’s explore why Invisalign trays can be hard to recycle and look at specialized recycling solutions for these and similar products.

Why Invisalign Trays Can’t Be Recycled Locally

The materials in Invisalign trays combine several elements to achieve durability and flexibility but aren’t compatible with traditional recycling streams.

Invisalign trays fall under the category of composite materials, meaning they’re made of different materials that are difficult to separate for reuse. Standard recyclers typically focus on more common plastics, like PET and HDPE, which are used for items like water bottles and containers. The additives that make Invisalign tough through many nights’ wear are a barrier to recycling by muncipal programs.

For a deeper dive into composite materials and recycling challenges, check out our guide on composite packaging recycling.

TerraCycle has a Solution for Invisalign Trays

If you want to recycle your used trays, a specialized program may be your best option, and that means you can ask your dentist to get involved. Invisalign has partnered with TerraCycle, a company known for recycling hard-to-process items, including oral care products. Through this partnership, dental offices can set up collection points for Invisalign trays and other similar items. Patients can ask their orthodontists or dentists if they’re part of this TerraCycle program and encourage them to participate if they’re not already involved.

Alternatively, TerraCycle offers a paid option for individual consumers called the Oral Care Zero Waste Pouch, a pre-paid mail-bask pouch allows you to send in oral care items for recycling, including Invisalign trays. It’s a convenient solution if your dental office isn’t participating in the TerraCycle program.

Encourage Recycling at the Dentist’s Office

If your dentist’s office doesn’t yet participate in Invisalign’s TerraCycle program, consider bringing it up! Let them know about the environmental benefits of offering recycling options for Invisalign trays, especially since many patients go through multiple trays during treatment.

Other Ways to Reduce Waste During Treatment

1. Consolidate Appointments: To avoid the environmental impact of frequent travel, try to consolidate check-ups and pick up multiple sets of trays at once, if your orthodontist allows.
2. Keep Old Trays as Backups: Instead of throwing out each tray, consider keeping the last used set as a backup in case you lose or damage your current set.
3. Reconsider Single-Use Products: Ask your dentist about other ways to make your orthodontic treatment more sustainable, such as avoiding single-use plastic dental supplies.

While Invisalign trays aren’t recyclable in the traditional sense, TerraCycle’s specialized program provides an option for environmentally conscious patients. Recycling complex materials is a growing field, and with increased demand for responsible recycling options, more solutions may emerge. Until then, consider using TerraCycle’s services, advocating for their presence in your dental office, and making sustainable choices throughout your Invisalign journey.