The field of dentistry wasn’t always known for its environmentally-friendly practices. Mercury fillings, excessive water use, and X-ray film were all accepted measures that put quite a toll on our environment. Fortunately, many dentists today are embracing eco-friendly and sustainable practices, and clinics are starting to find ways to reduce their carbon footprints while improving patient services and care at the same time. To show you what we mean, here are just a few of the ways eco-friendly dentistry is being used today to better our world.
Going Digital
Safe and reusable alternatives can often be used to reduce a dentist’s overall operating costs. For instance, replacing x-ray film and chemicals with digital x-rays can save on environmental waste and also cut supply costs. Paperless operations also make sharing information easier and more readily accessible between the dentist, specialists, and insurance companies. This saves time, paper, and boosts productivity as well.
Reducing Amalgam
Mercury fillings were once common practice. That is until we found out just how bad mercury is for our health and environment. Now, dentists are swapping amalgam for other filling materials and are taking certain steps to prevent any amalgam from reaching the sewage system and being released into the environment.
Monitoring Water Use
Dentists use a lot of water during the cleaning and surgical processes. This is why many dental clinics are now installing water meters and using flow controllers to reduce the amount of water that they use.
Using Biodegradable Products
A number of useful biodegradable products have also been introduced into the dental field. Take eco-trays, for example. These trays are made from resins that are formulated from vegetables, making them completely biodegradable and renewable. Recyclable packaging, energy efficient LED operatory lights, natural and biodegradable gauze, and many other supplies can be found today that can help dentists cut back their carbon footprint and become more eco-friendly.
Sourcing Local
The dental industry is seeing the benefit of using local supply chains and products over transporting items across borders and overseas. Using locally sourced vendors can cut down on greenhouse gas emissions and can also help to support our economy right here at home.
At Carlingwood Dental, we are committed to providing eco-friendly practices when we can! We incorporate the latest innovative technologies and keep up on the latest scientific advancements in our field to continuously offer you a better experience. If you’re looking for dental care that is future-facing and thoughtful, consider Carlingwood Dental Centre for all your dentistry needs. You can count on our top-rated expert team and state-of-the-art clinic to provide you with unparalleled treatment, planning and care. Contact us today to learn more about our clinic and what we have to offer you and your family.
