Abstract

The oral cavity hosts a resident microbiota that maintains a symbiotic relationship with the host, promoting physiological and immunological homeostasis. However, alterations in the oral environment can induce dysbiosis, facilitating the development of periodontal diseases and their association with systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. This article reviews current evidence regarding microbiological changes induced by orthodontic treatments, comparing fixed appliances with clear aligners. While some studies suggest that aligners provide periodontal advantages, others report dysbiosis associated with both treatments, indicating that oral hygiene may be the main protective factor. Given the growing relevance of the oral microbiota in personalized medicine, it is essential to investigate microbial changes linked to each type of orthodontic treatment.

Keywords:Oral microbiota; Orthodontics; Dysbiosis; Periodontal health; Clear aligners; Systemic diseases