Green dentistry: a way forward for oral-health professionals

Between the west coast of the United States and Hawaii lies a floating mass of plastic debris – sometimes referred to as the “eighth continent” – weighing an estimated three million tonnes. This huge accumulation of plastic is a striking reminder of the environmental impact of waste. To visualise this, imagine something three times the size of France or 4.5 times the size of Germany, with the weight of about two million cars, and enough plastic to fill 300,000 garbage trucks.

The problem of plastic waste goes beyond visible debris. Nano- and microplastics, tiny fragments of plastic 0.001-1000µm in size, are ubiquitous in European environments. These plastics, mostly polyethylene – which can be found in human bodily fluids and even in foetuses – come from a variety of sources, including cosmetics, synthetic clothing fibres and the degradation of larger plastic items.

Challenges in dental clinics

Larger dental clinics, equipped with sophisticated technology and serving many patients daily, face significant challenges in implementing sustainable practices. The main challenge is the significant initial investment required for green technologies. Upgrading to more energy-efficient equipment, installing solar panels, and adopting water-saving systems can be costly, but they promise long-term savings as well as environmental benefits.

In addition, the sheer volume of waste generated in larger clinics is significant. Single-use plastics, disposable instruments, and packaging are major contributors to environmental pollution. Implementing comprehensive waste management and recycling programmes is essential but logistically complex. In addition, training staff and ensuring compliance with new protocols takes time and resources.

Smaller dental practices face their own unique challenges. Limited space and resources can hinder the implementation of green technologies. For example, installing water-saving devices or energy-efficient systems in older buildings may not be feasible without extensive – and possibly expensive – renovations.

In addition, smaller practices often lack administrative support, placing the burden of researching and implementing sustainable initiatives on the practitioners themselves. Balancing clinical duties with the added responsibility of managing sustainability projects can be overwhelming.

The landscape of dental practices across Europe is diverse, with significant differences in economic conditions, regulatory environments and cultural attitudes towards sustainability. Northern and Western European countries, with robust environmental policies and financial resources, generally find it easier to adopt sustainable practices. These regions often benefit from government subsidies and grants that support green initiatives in healthcare.

For example, countries such as Sweden and Germany have strong regulatory frameworks that promote sustainability, making it easier for dental practices to invest in green technologies. In contrast, countries in southern and eastern Europe may still struggle with economic constraints and less-stringent environmental regulations. In such regions, local efforts and initiatives are critical to promoting sustainability in dental care.

Key sustainable approaches

To address the environmental impact of dental clinics and practices, it is essential to adopt comprehensive approaches that integrate sustainability into all aspects of operations. By focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, environmentally friendly products, and sustainable operations, dental practices can significantly reduce their environmental footprint. Key sustainable practices include:

1. Energy efficiency: Adopting energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of dental practices. Utilising renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, further enhances sustainability.
2. Water conservation: Implementing water-saving devices, such as low-flow faucets and waterless vacuum systems, can drastically reduce water consumption. These systems not only conserve water but also lower utility costs.
3. Waste management: The proper disposal and recycling of dental materials is critical. Dental clinics and practices can reduce single-use plastics by opting for reusable or biodegradable alternatives. For example, stainless-steel suction tips and reusable sterilization pouches can replace disposable ones.
4. Eco-friendly products: Choosing dental materials and products that are non-toxic and environmentally friendly is essential. This may include using biodegradable dental floss, bamboo toothbrushes, and eco-friendly packaging for dental supplies.
5. Sustainable operations: Adopting digital record-keeping to reduce paper usage, utilising telehealth services to minimise travel emissions, and encouraging sustainable commuting options for staff and patients are all effective strategies.

Material selection and implant dentistry

The choice of materials in dentistry – especially in implant dentistry – plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability. The choice of materials has a significant impact on the environmental footprint of dental practices. By choosing biocompatible and environmentally friendly materials, dental professionals can reduce the environmental impact associated with dental treatments and procedures.

In general, dental practices should prioritise materials that are sustainably sourced and have minimal environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. This includes choosing materials that require less energy and water to manufacture and that produce fewer greenhouse gases. In addition, materials that are recyclable or biodegradable at the end of their lifecycle can help reduce waste and pollution.

In implant dentistry in particular, the focus should be on materials that are not only durable and biocompatible but also environmentally friendly. Titanium, for example, is widely used in implants because of its strength, durability and compatibility with human tissue. However, the production of titanium can be energy-intensive and harmful to the environment. Therefore, further research into alternative materials such as zirconia – which has a lower environmental impact and similar biocompatibility – may be beneficial.

In addition, the longevity and durability of implant materials is of paramount importance. Long-lasting implants reduce the need for replacement, minimising waste and the environmental impact of producing new materials. Using high-quality materials that extend the life of dental implants can lead to fewer procedures over time, contributing to a more sustainable practice.

Furthermore, the manufacturing processes for dental materials should adhere to sustainable practices. This includes minimising energy consumption, reducing waste, and implementing recycling programmes within manufacturing facilities. By supporting manufacturers that prioritise sustainability, dental practices can further reduce their environmental footprint.

Overall, careful consideration of material selection in both general and implant dentistry can make a significant contribution to sustainability efforts. By choosing environmentally friendly, durable, and biocompatible materials, dental professionals can improve the environmental sustainability of their practices while maintaining high standards of patient care.

As the field of periodontology advances, integrating sustainable practices is both a challenge and an opportunity for dental professionals across Europe. Larger clinics must navigate the financial and logistical complexities of green technologies, while smaller practices must balance sustainability with limited resources. The different regulatory and economic landscapes across Europe require tailored approaches to sustainability.

By adopting green practices, dental professionals can contribute to global environmental efforts while improving the quality of care for their patients. The journey to sustainable green dentistry requires collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to environmental responsibility to ensure a healthier planet and a brighter future for all.