1. PROS
• Reduces waste and
pollution.
• Saves water, energy
and money.
• Is high-tech.
• Supports a wellness
lifestyle.
CONS
• Many dentists don’t
know about green
dentistry
• Most dental practices
are privately owned
and don’t get any
funding for their
efforts towards green
dentistry
Our Opinion Pros & Cons
Green
Dentistry
The Eco-Friendly
Dental Practice
š ›
Baillie H. Haley C.
Andrea D. Larissa J.
Keala B.
We believe “green
dentistry” is an
achievable goal that
should be worked
towards one step at
a time.
“It is our belief that there
should be no such term as
“environmentalists.” To
refer to a segment of
society who cares about
the health and welfare of
the planet as such is akin
to using the term “human
rightists” for those who
show compassion and
offer aid to their fellow
human beings.”

2. The Ideal Green
Office
What is “Green Dentistry”?
1
Green dentistry is a high-tech
approach that reduces the
environmental impact of dental
practices and encompasses a
service model for dentistry that
supports and maintains wellness.
The ultimate goal of green
dentistry is to go beyond
preventing pollution to the point of
promoting sustainability.
Number of papers in a chart: 6
Paper from autoclave bags
recycled
Plastic from autoclave bags
recycled
Operating room towels instead
of patient napkins
Digital radiographs in place of
traditional film
Fluorescent bulbs where
practical
SOL-U-GUARD surface
disinfectant used
Hardwood flooring in non-
clinical areas
Linoleum flooring in clinical
areas
Ultra-low VOC latex paint on
walls
2
Green dentistry can be
accomplished through many
different aspects of the dental
office, including:
-digital charts
-sterilization methods
-operatory lighting
-radiographs
-paint
-flooring