Exploring the future of dental supplies and current trends in sustainable dentistry
Dental practices are in constant need of quality dental supplies from reliable dental suppliers to provide the best patient care and uphold proper hygiene standards. But today’s practices also have the environment in mind. Fortunately, they can achieve their sustainability goals and become greener by opting for biodegradable, reusable, and recyclable dental products that perform the same or better than less eco-friendly choices. By doing so, they will reduce their impact on our already overtaxed planet while still providing the quality service their patients expect and enjoy.
This article will explore ways to have a greener practice and the role a dental supplier can play. It will also take a look at the future of dental supplies and cover trends dental office managers need to know.
The future of sustainable dentistry and trends to watch
Dental practice owners and office managers have to make tough choices every day that weigh the costs and efficacy of supplies against their sustainability. A good dentistry supplier can help make these choices easier by providing eco-friendly options that do not compromise quality, durability, and function.
Efforts to build a greener practice will not go unnoticed, especially by the newer generations of patients. According to the Deloitte 2023 Global Survey, 70% of millennials and Gen Zs are actively trying to minimize their impact on the environment and make sustainable choices. By reducing dental waste, choosing recyclable and biodegradable options, purchasing reusable instruments, and conserving energy and water, practices can reduce their overall environmental impact while growing their patient base with future generations.
Sustainable dental supplies to discuss with your dental supplier
Biodegradable Syringe Sleeves
Compostable and biodegradable air/water syringe sleeves are an economical and eco-friendly disposable product. These single-use sleeves provide a reliable barrier to protect the syringe and patients from cross-contamination. They also minimize excessive disinfection to save on costs and resources. A latex-free product, the sleeves are suitable for use on patients with latex allergies.
Biodegradable Nitrile Exam Gloves
These biodegradable exam gloves are specially formulated for faster enzymatic degradation in landfills. In fact, they achieve 90% biodegradation in just 490 days versus standard nitrile, which can take 626 days to degrade just 0.8%. They also provide durable protection while ensuring tactile sensitivity and a reliable grip. Available in a range of sizes, including extra large, large, medium, small, and extra small, practitioners can benefit from the fit, function, and protection of traditional nitrile while the practice improves its sustainability.
Biodegradable Bite Block Covers
These biodegradable bite block covers are made of environmentally friendly compostable plastic. Constructed for optimum tear resistance, they provide maximum infection control. They are also highly malleable to ensure patient comfort while being convenient and cost-efficient.
Biodegradable Headrest Covers
Made of lightweight, compostable plastic, these biodegradable headrest covers are simple to use, fit over most dental chair headrests, and are disposable for easy cleanup. Available in 10” x 11” and 10” x 14” configurations, they provide optimal infection protection for the patient without negatively impacting the environment.
Sending the sustainability message home
Bamboo Toothbrushes
Sending patients home with a compostable and biodegradable bamboo toothbrush is a great way to lead by example. These toothbrushes are eco-friendly and highly effective while also being easy on the practice’s budget. Their wide bamboo handle enables a controlled grip, and their soft recyclable nylon bristles support proper teeth cleaning. Packaged individually in 100% recyclable materials, these toothbrushes come in child and adult sizes, plus pre-pasted, flat trim, and V-trim orthodontic options.
Conclusion
Whether purchasing biodegradable infection control products, recyclable tools, or reusable instruments, today’s dental practices can achieve their sustainability goals with the help of a good dentistry supplier. By choosing biodegradable and recyclable products that still deliver high performance, practitioners, patients, and the planet will all reap the benefits.
