Green dentistry can help save the planet

As concerns for our planet’s health intensify, every industry, including dentistry, is exploring innovative ways to reduce its environmental impact.

Green dentistry, sometimes referred to as ‘eco-dentistry’, represents an exciting convergence of healthcare and environmental stewardship. But what exactly does this mean, and how can adopting green dentistry principles make a significant difference? Let’s dive in.

What is Green Dentistry?

Green dentistry is an approach that minimises the environmental impact of a dental practice. This not only includes the use of sustainable materials and methods but also involves eco-friendly practices in waste disposal, energy conservation, and patient care.

Benefits of Green Dentistry

• Reduced Waste and Pollution
  • Traditional dental practices produce a significant amount of waste, from disposable bibs to plastic toothbrushes. Green dentistry advocates for biodegradable or recyclable alternatives. Further, by using digital imaging instead of traditional X-rays, harmful chemicals and radiation can be reduced.

• Energy and Water Conservation
  • Modern green dental practices are installing devices to reduce water usage during treatments and utilise energy-efficient lighting and equipment, thus conserving vital resources.
    
• Healthier Work and Treatment Spaces
  • Green dentistry often intersects with holistic dentistry. By choosing non-toxic materials for treatments and ensuring better indoor air quality, we provide a safer environment for both patients and staff.

  At Lifestyle Dental, we use state-of-the-art digital dentistry to help enhance the experience for our patients, as well as helping to reduce our environmental impact.

What are we doing to help green dentistry

1. We’ve incorporated digital scanning technology, minimising traditional postage, and transitioned to paperless procedures using Clinipads for tablet-based patient consent.
2. We prioritise the proper disposal of dental materials, especially plaster models and waste amalgam from metal fillings.
3. We collaborate with eco-conscious companies like TePe, which is actively converting its products and packaging to recyclable materials.
4. Supporting innovations in sustainability, we back TePe’s initiatives in using plastic substitutes like bamboo. Learn more about their commitment here.

How can you play a part?

Beyond the clinic, personal choices also make a difference. Embracing sustainable dental routines by switching to bamboo toothbrushes, organic toothpastes, and other green dental products can make a marked difference in our daily environmental footprint.

Additionally, the ripple effect of education cannot be underestimated. Much like all environmental endeavours, the more informed individuals become, the more profound the collective effect. By sharing insights and knowledge about green dentistry with friends and family, we can amplify the movement towards a more sustainable future in dental care.

The Future is Green

While the dental industry’s overall carbon footprint might be a fraction of larger sectors, every bit counts. By integrating green practices, dentistry can play its part in a global movement towards sustainability. Green dentistry doesn’t just promise a brighter smile but a brighter future for our planet. 

At Lifestyle Dental, we’re committed to pioneering such practices, ensuring that our pursuit of oral health goes hand in hand with the health of our Earth. Join us in this mission and let’s pave the way for a greener future together.

Need a dental appointment in Preston? Book your free consultation today. If you have any questions about green dentistry, feel free to ask a member of our team.

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