New Life Teeth’s Eco-Friendly Dentistry: A Sustainable Approach to Oral Health
Dental care, a routine aspect of healthcare, has emerged as a notable contributor to environmental pollution. Its impact stems from various dental practice sources. One primary concern is the unchecked use of gloves, masks, and packaging materials and their improper disposal.
Plus, the reliance on conventional energy sources to operate machinery, including X-ray and dental chairs, contributes to the ecological footprint of dental care. Then there are dental amalgams that release mercury, posing risks to aquatic ecosystems.
With approximately 3% of the global carbon emissions generated from dental care, green dentistry has become inevitably essential.
Green dentistry, also known as eco-friendly dentistry, emphasizes reducing the environmental footprint of dental care activities. It includes reducing single-use plastics, implementing energy-efficient technologies, and using eco-friendly dental materials.
Many dentists worldwide now realize the need to make dentistry more sustainable as they try different approaches to green dentistry to transform traditional practices.
Among such dentists is Dr. Stuart Lutton. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, he is signifying ecological transformation in oral health through his New Life Teeth Clinic.
New Life Teeth Clinic’s green initiatives aim to tackle sustainability problems through a multifaceted approach. Firstly, they’ve installed electric charging points for cars to reduce emissions related to commuting to and from dental appointments.
The clinic has also introduced recyclable cups within its facility, a small yet impactful measure contributing to responsible waste management and elimination of plastic waste.
The NLT Lab has achieved an 80% reduction in plaster models. It also aims to eliminate its impressions in the clinic within the next three years. The team opts for a cycle courier and employs biodegradable bags for their lab work when feasible.
Dr. Stuart extends the approach to materials as well. For instance, the procedures at NLT are using materials like Zirconia instead of plastic alternatives. Unlike plastic bridges, the use of Prettau zirconia bridge feels natural and is healthier for oral health. Additionally, embracing a paperless environment and energy-efficient infrastructure at NLT has diminished environmental impact.
While the efforts of clinics like New Life Teeth are commendable, such initiatives must become the industry standard to create a positive impact. Clinics can also aim for the targets set by the National Health Service (NHS), aiming for an 80% reduction in emissions from dental practices between 2028 and 2032.
By aligning with these goals, leading clinics like New Life Teeth can commit to eco-friendly practices and make administrative functions more efficient.
As patients increasingly seek providers aligned with their environmental values, clinics’ efforts worldwide signal a positive shift towards a greener future in the dental industry. With collective action, dentists can continue to forge smiles with less impact on the planet’s health.
