Sustainability in Dentistry: An Overview for Oral Healthcare Team Members

Abstract

Background With rising awareness of the health-related impact of climate change and environmental degradation, there is clear interest by oral health professionals to deliver services in ways that minimize environmental impact.Discussion We summarize key principles related to sustainability in dentistry. Domains for action such as disease prevention, carbon footprint reduction, and management of plastics, nitrous oxide and antibiotics are discussed. Resources are identified to support teams to implement sustainable practices including the FDI World Dental Federation’s Interactive Toolkit and Massive Online Open Course. By understanding key concepts of sustainability, recognizing domain areas for action, and referencing available resources, dental teams will be empowered to move further toward sustainable practice.Continuing Education Credit Available: A CDA Continuing Education quiz is online for this article: https://www.cdapresents360.com/learn/catalog/view/20The practice worksheet is available online: https://doi.org/10.1080/19424396.2024.2439728

Keywords

• Sustainability
• climate change
• waste management
• carbon dioxide
• carbon footprint
• plastics