A step towards sustainability in current dental practice: a cross sectional study

Abstract

Background: Preservation of planet should be of utmost importance. All practicing dentists collectively produce an amount of waste which can turn out to be extremely harmful to the environment. Biomedical waste management and eco-friendly approach in dental practice should be leveraged for a better future. Aim was to assess the changing trends regarding biomedical waste management and eco-friendly approach in regular practice among dentists of Ahmedabad. Methods: A questionnaire-based study consisting of 17 questions was conducted among practicing dentists of Ahmedabad city. A total of 301 dentists voluntarily participated in the study. Results: Most of the practicing dentists (98.7%) were aware about the biomedical waste management categories and 90.4% were known to the colour coding system used for waste segregation and disposal. A standard method of mercury waste management and sharps disposal was practiced by 53.7% and 88.4% of total participants respectively. Most of the participants were using disposable suction tips (91.6%) and disposable syringes (98.9%). However, 71.6% and 28.4% participants were using autoclavable patient drape, head cap and mask. Conclusions: Comparison based on experience revealed that dentists with lesser experience are more prone to having eco-friendly choices. Comparison based on qualification revealed that paediatric dentists were having the least eco-friendly approach in regular practice compared to other groups. Concept of eco-friendly dentistry was familiar to majority of the dentists but, use of various eco-friendly alternatives were not preferred equally by all dentists.