IMP162 - Testing the Tools: Green Products-Article

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The article explains the differences between “green” and “holistic” dentistry and reviews products and practices that may reduce environmental impact while supporting oral health. “Green” products focus on minimizing waste and environmental harm across their life cycle, while “holistic” or “biological” dentistry considers the effects of materials and treatments on the whole body. The author notes that these approaches often question mainstream materials and treatments, including amalgam, fluoride, and root canals, and warns about “greenwashing,” or misleading marketing that appears eco-friendly without truly meeting those standards.<br /><br />The piece emphasizes that the most important long-term priority in dentistry is prevention through education, hygiene, and maintenance. It then highlights practical ways practices can become more sustainable: reducing energy and water use, turning off equipment, using LED lights and motion sensors, choosing low-flow fixtures, and selecting efficient HVAC and handpiece systems. It also recommends switching to reusable or refillable supplies, buying in bulk, and using digital software and teledentistry to cut paper use and travel-related emissions.<br /><br />The article reviews selected consumer and professional products, including herbal mouthwash, probiotic lozenges, toothpaste alternatives, eco-friendly floss, biomimetic restorative materials, zirconia implants, homeopathic wound-care kits, reusable sterilization pouches, biodegradable gloves, and amalgam separators. Many of these are presented as potentially beneficial for both patient health and sustainability.<br /><br />Overall, the author argues that dentists can reduce waste, lower costs, and support patient care by carefully evaluating products and office systems through both environmental and biological lenses.

Keywords

green dentistry

holistic dentistry

biological dentistry

sustainable oral health

dental waste reduction

eco-friendly dental products

preventive dentistry

greenwashing

teledentistry

amalgam separators