As the dental profession navigates a rapidly evolving landscape, one theme is set to dominate conversations in 2025: sustainability. With increasing awareness of climate change and environmental challenges, the integration of eco-friendly practices in dental hygiene is no longer optional, it’s essential.
Understanding sustainability in dentistry
Sustainability in dentistry is about balancing oral health and environmental care. It’s about doing what we do best, delivering top-notch care, while also being mindful of our impact on the planet. Think of it as a mix of preventative care, reducing waste, conserving energy, and embracing digital and eco-friendly innovations.
Here’s a staggering fact: Dentistry contributes about 3% of the healthcare industry’s carbon footprint.
1. That’s a big deal! From disposable products to energy use and travel emissions, our profession leaves a mark. But the good news is, we can change that. A 2022 Pew Research Center survey found that 75% of people across 19 countries see climate change as a major threat. 2. For us in dental hygiene, this means stepping up, adopting green practices like early disease detection, reducing single-use plastics, and using energy-efficient tools.
More than 67% of today’s consumers want to support businesses that prioritize sustainability. 3. And when you think about it, why wouldn’t they? From climate disasters to pollution, the urgency to act is clear. Dental practices that show they care about the planet naturally build trust and loyalty with their patients.
The truth is, we didn’t create the climate crisis, but we have the power to be part of the solution. It’s time to redefine progress, not as endless growth, but as sustainable practices that work for both people and the planet. Plus, going green often means saving green. Preventative care is less resource-intensive, digital records cut paper costs, and energy-efficient appliances lower utility bills.
Emerging trends in sustainable dentistry Prevention
Prevention has always been at the heart of what we do, but now it’s also a sustainable strategy.
Techniques like Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) and Airflow technology are helping hygienists remove biofilm more effectively while preserving tooth structure. The result? Healthier teeth and less invasive treatments.
Innovations like biomimetic peptides (e.g., Curodont) and compounds like hydroxyapatite are also changing the game. These unconventional therapies help treat demineralization and offer alternatives to fluoride, reducing the need for resource-heavy restorative treatments.
Digital dentistry
No one liked impressions anyway! Digital scanners are reducing waste and improving diagnostics. Scanners provide detailed visuals that help us discuss preventative interventions, like early orthodontics or occlusal guards, with patients. Not to mention, they provide avenues to mobile and teledentistry, providing better access to care for communities.
Eco-friendly products
The market for sustainable dental products is booming. Brands like Elims, Suri, David’s, Risewell, and Carifree are paving the way with biodegradable toothbrushes, refillable floss containers, strategic product development, and more. Companies are also teaming up with recycling programs like TerraCycle and Pact to reduce waste.
Patient education
Hygienists are in a unique position to champion sustainability. By teaching patients about eco- friendly oral care options and preventative models like CAMBRA (Caries Management by Risk Assessment), we empower them to make choices that benefit their health and the planet.
The future of dental hygiene
The journey toward sustainability requires collective action and you can pave the way.
Start by supporting companies that positively impact the dental industry and the planet. Look for brands offering recyclable or biodegradable products, reduced packaging, carbon offset shipping, and those utilizing biofuel or clean energy manufacturing. Companies like Beesure, Purlife, and Directa Dental are leading the way in making sustainability accessible.
Stay informed through continuing education; the FDI World Dental Federation offers a sustainability course and toolkit to help dental professionals take actionable steps toward greener practices. Connect with dental professionals in the industry that are championing sustainability in dentistry. Interact with them, ask them questions, and see how you can get involved.
Engage with patients by encouraging eco-conscious habits, such as water-saving techniques and recycling oral care products. Highlight the benefits of prevention, promoting technologies like salivary testing, and emphasizing regular checkups to foster patient awareness and reduce resource intensive treatments.
Why it’s time to act
Sustainable dentistry isn’t just a trend, it’s a paradigm shift. By prioritizing sustainability, dental hygienists can play a pivotal role in addressing global environmental challenges while enhancing their profession. As we look ahead to 2025, focus on integrating green practices into every aspect of dental hygiene and your life. The time for action is now. As preventative specialists, we can transform the future of dentistry into a model of sustainability, innovation, and care.
About the author:
MA, RDH Brittany is a dental hygienist with over a decade of experience, is dedicated to enhancing oral health and community well-being. She is raising a family deeply rooted in regenerative practices and a homesteading lifestyle and aspires to live sustainably and pass these values to future generations. Brittany’s unwavering commitment to her community fuels her anticipation for a future where she can leverage her expertise for positive transformation. As a prominent opinion leader in sustainable dentistry, she unites her passion for sustainability and oral health, contributing significantly to the field.
