Knowledge, attitude and practices towards eco- friendly dentistry among dental practioners

Aim: The survey aims to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding eco -friendly dentistry among dental practitioners. Material and Methods: The cross sectional study was conducted among 800 dental practitioners selected through a systematic random sampling. Data was collected using the pretested structured closed ended questionnaire. The first part of the questionnaire consisted of the demographic details and the second part awareness on eco-friendly dentistry, its associations and implemented strategies in their practice, their support and opinion towards this concept. Results: Among the total sample only 13.1% were aware of EFD Association. 76% (608) of the total sample reported that they were aware of harm done to the environment by dental practice. Among the total participants, majority 57.9% reported that they implement the strategy of proper protocol for waste disposal. Among the total sample 91.9% (735) of them gave positive opinion on emphasis to be made on implementing these strategies. Conclusions: Significant difference was found in gender, specialty, place of practice and type of practice related with knowledge attitude and practice on eco friendly dentistry. Significant difference was found in study subjects related with awareness on eco friendly dentistry concept, following the concept, awareness on the harm done by dental practice, opinion on emphasis to be made on implementing these strategies.

Establishing an Eco-friendly Dental Practice: A Review.

Have dentists paused to think as to where the gloves, fixer, plastic waste, mercury waste, and X-ray films used in the clinic end up after disposal? Or considered how much water, electricity, and other resources our dental clinics use? Dentists need to take off their tinted glasses and consider the effects of their dental practice on the planet. Though individual dentists generate only small amounts of dental waste, the accumulated waste produced by the profession may have significant environmental impact. Thus the concept of “green dentistry” or “ecofriendly dentistry” has evolved. Eco-friendly dentistry is an environmentally friendly way of practicing dentistry by using techniques and equipment to reduce waste, conserve energy, decrease pollution, and reduce our carbon footprint. The incorporation of eco-friendly dentistry to the dental practice is not only effective from an environmental perspective but is cost-effective for the dentist too. If a dental practitioner is looking for a way to distinguish his clinic from the others, eco-friendly dentistry could be the answer. This article reviews the scientific literature on eco-friendly dentistry and suggests comprehensive steps to start an eco-friendly dental practice.

Green Dentistry; Ecofriendly Dentistry : Beneficial For Patients, Beneficial For The Environment.

Green dentistry or eco-friendly dentistry is a practice that reduces waste and pollution, saves energy and money, incorporates high tech innovations and is wellness based. Dentists incorporate a variety of materials and equipment in practice, some of them currently in use present potential challenges to the environment. Dentists are responsible for taking several precautions to ensure that patients, staff and the environment are protected. Precautions must be taken to prevent any harmfull chemicals or materials from polluting the environment and in turn causing ” Global warming”. Green dentistry increase environmental awareness and sensitivity among dental professionals. This review article identifies some common wastes produced by dental professionals and suggestions for reducing the impact on the environment which can help ensure patient and worker safety, prevent the risk of future liability and protect our air, water and land.