Title Effect of Common Aligner Cleaning Methods on Surface Degradation and Microplastic Release from Thermoplastic Orthodontic Aligners: An In-vitro Experimental Study for Evidence-Based Clinical Recommendations (This is professional, scientific, and still reflects the translational theme.) Background Clear aligners have become an increasingly popular orthodontic treatment modality owing to their esthetics and patient comfort. Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining aligner hygiene; however, commonly recommended cleaning methods may adversely affect the physical properties of thermoplastic aligners and contribute to microplastic release. Despite their widespread clinical use, comparative evidence regarding the influence of different cleaning protocols on aligner integrity remains limited. Laboratory evidence generated from this study may help establish clinically relevant recommendations for safe and effective aligner maintenance. Aim To evaluate the effect of commonly used aligner cleaning methods on surface degradation and microplastic release from thermoplastic orthodontic aligners and identify the cleaning protocol that best preserves aligner integrity. Materials and Methods This in-vitro experimental study will be conducted using standardized thermoplastic orthodontic aligners fabricated from PETG sheets. Following thermoforming and artificial aging, the specimens (n = XX) will be randomly allocated into six cleaning groups: Water rinse Toothbrush alone Toothbrush with toothpaste Aligner cleaning tablets Chlorhexidine solution Ultrasonic cleaning Following standardized cleaning cycles, the specimens will be evaluated for: Surface morphology using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) Surface roughness using a 3D optical profilometer (or contact profilometer, depending on your instrument) Microplastic release through filtration of the cleaning solution followed by particle counting and characterization using FE-SEM (replace this with FTIR/Raman if those techniques are available in your institution) The obtained data will be statistically analysed to compare differences among the cleaning protocols. Expected Outcome The study is expected to identify cleaning methods that produce minimal surface degradation and lower microplastic release while preserving the structural integrity of thermoplastic aligners. These findings may contribute to the development of evidence-based recommendations for routine aligner maintenance. Translational Significance The findings of this study are expected to bridge laboratory material science and clinical orthodontic practice by providing scientific evidence for selecting safer aligner cleaning protocols. Translation of these findings into clinical recommendations may improve aligner longevity, reduce unnecessary material degradation and potential microplastic exposure, and support evidence-based patient care, consistent with the conference theme of "Translational Dental Research – Bridging Science and Care." what do u think about this abstract