Lincoln Orthodontics Is Now Recycling with TerraCycle

We’re always looking for ways to improve and make a difference, not just when it comes to your smile, but also in how we care for our patients and environment. That’s why we’re excited to announce a new recycling initiative in our office: TerraCycle!

What is TerraCycle?

TerraCycle is a unique recycling program that accepts items not typically included in city recycling services, such as used toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, and floss containers, and yes, even those stray aligners that always seem to end up on your kitchen counter—to minimize waste. 

Instead of ending up in a landfill, these items are collected, shipped off, and turned into new products. When our office sends our box back to TerraCycle, they’ll recycle it into things like industrial drainage pipes, storage boxes, and plant pots, just to name a few. Alternatively, the products might be transformed into filler in extruded product applications, such as plastic lumber and sheeting.

Why Are We Doing This?

At Lincoln Orthodontics, we believe that small changes can make a big difference! Dental products (and particularly orthodontic products!) are essential for keeping you and your kids’ smiles healthy, but they often generate a lot of plastic waste. If you’re like us, you’ve probably found an aligner tray or two in every room of the house by now! Instead of tossing them, now you can help turn that waste into something better. With TerraCycle, we can all do our part to reduce that impact.

This is a brand new (launched April 2025!) program in collaboration with other orthodontic colleagues and companies. Dr. Willett is the first adopter in Nebraska and is eager to help her patients take small steps and reduce our waste. Thanks to the Middle Atlantic Society of Orthodontists for spear-heading this impactful initiative.  

Here’s what you can bring to recycle at your next orthodontic visit:

• Used toothbrushes
• Empty toothpaste tubes and caps
• Floss containers
• Outer packaging of dental care products
• Used aligners
• Plastic aligner bags
• Clear retainer material
• Plastic packaging

Just give the items a quick rinse and drop them off in our TerraCycle bin during your next orthodontic appointment! Our box also has the accepted and unaccepted waste listed directly on it in case you need to reference it when recycling. Before you come in, you should remove all protected health information, such as labels, from your recyclables. 

Going Green Together

At Lincoln Orthodontics, we’re committed to more than just creating beautiful, confident smiles—we’re proud to be part of a small but impactful change toward a more sustainable future. Whether you’re starting treatment, bringing your child in for a check-up, or dropping off your recyclables, you’re part of a community that cares. It’s just one more way we can keep your family’s smiles healthy while helping the planet shine a little brighter, too. Have questions or want to learn more? Give us a call at 402-489-8841 or stop by and say hi—we can’t wait to see you!