KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF GREEN DENTISTRY AMONG DENTAL PROFESSIONALS IN CHENNAI: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53274/IJCRD.2026.7101Keywords:
- Green dentistry,
- Eco-dentistry,
- Sustainability,
- Dental practitioners,
- Waste management,
- Environmental awareness
Abstract
Background:
The increasing environmental burden generated by healthcare systems has brought attention to sustainable clinical practices, including dentistry. Single-use plastics, radiographic chemicals, sterilization materials, and mercury disposal contribute significantly to ecological pollution. Green dentistry aims to minimize environmental impact through waste reduction, resource conservation, and the elimination of toxic materials. Understanding the current awareness and practices among dental professionals is essential for integrating sustainability into routine care.
Aim:
To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices related to green dentistry among dental practitioners in Chennai and identify gaps and opportunities for sustainable adoption.
Materials and Methods:
A descriptive, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among 100 dental practitioners in Chennai between July and August 2024. A structured, pre-validated 20-item questionnaire assessing demographic data, awareness, attitudes, and sustainability-related practices was administered online after obtaining informed consent. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results:
Among the 100 participants, most were aged 20–30 years (50%) and engaged in private practice (73%). Awareness of green dentistry was moderate, with 32% somewhat familiar and 30% familiar with the concept. Implementation lagged behind awareness: only 17% used eco-friendly materials exclusively, 46% adopted LED lighting, and 29% followed biomedical waste disposal protocols. Recycling practices were limited (13%), and composting was negligible (1%). Attitudes were positive, with 65% willing to invest in training and 45% willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly products. Preferred future initiatives included renewable energy use (33%) and eco-friendly office design (26%).
Conclusion:
Although awareness and attitudes toward green dentistry were positive among practitioners, the translation of knowledge into practice remains limited. Strengthening training, integrating sustainability into dental curricula, and providing policy-level support may enhance the adoption of eco-friendly dental practices.
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References
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