Reducing Waste and Pollution (Ecodentistry‪)‬

Our series explores the four "Rs" of green dentistry: re-think, reduce, re-use and recycle. In our last column, we discussed the foundational concept in green dentistry: re-thinking. We can take a moment to re-think our routines to begin practicing dentistry in a way that reduces waste and pollution; saves water, energy and money; incorporates high-tech innovations; and focuses on a wellness approach to patient care. Here, we delve into reducing: eliminating waste and pollution before it occurs and using technology and patient education to help. Modern dentistry requires us to find efficiencies in all areas of our practice. Efficiencies of time provide us the freedom to spend more time building relationships and educating our clients; we know that patients who are more connected to us are more likely to follow our hygiene recommendations. Efficiencies of materials make resources available for managing personal well-being, giving back to community and re-investing in continuing education.