We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Impact of the dental sector on the environmental pollution: an overview
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarises the environmental impact of the dental sector, focusing on mercury from amalgam, microplastic release from resins and disposable materials, and high energy and water consumption. It evaluates green dentistry concepts and sustainable practice alternatives.
Dental waste, including metal, plastic, and chemical residues, and high energy and water consumption, significantly contribute to environmental degradation. This review highlights the environmental impact of common dental materials and practices, such as amalgam, resin composites, and disposable plastics. The aim is to examine current evidence, emphasizing mercury pollution, microplastic release, and biomedical waste handling. Moreover, it explores the emerging concept of green dentistry and provides an overview of international regulatory efforts. The paper advocates for sustainable practices in dentistry through prevention, innovation, and informed clinical choices, supported by life cycle assessment approaches.
More Papers Like This
Green Dentistry: Sustainable Practices and Materials for a Healthier Planet
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines sustainable practices in dentistry, highlighting how adoption of biodegradable materials, digital technologies like CAD/CAM and teledentistry, reduced single-use plastics, and energy-efficient clinic design can substantially lower the environmental footprint of dental care without compromising patient outcomes.
What every dentist needs to know about microplastics and dental materials.
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the sources and potential health risks of microplastics originating from dental products, including toothpastes, dental composites, aligners, and other clinical materials. Researchers found that dental products can release microplastic particles during use and degradation, contributing to both patient exposure and environmental contamination. The study calls for greater awareness among dental professionals about microplastic risks and the development of safer alternative materials.
Negative Impact of Dental Wastewater on the Environment and Human Health: A Scoping Review
AI summary Read the abstract
This scoping review analyzed evidence on dental wastewater as a source of environmental and health risks, finding that it contains physical, chemical, and microbiological hazards — including plastic particles from dental materials — that are inadequately managed in most healthcare settings.
Microplastics in Dentistry: A Review of Health and Environmental Risks
AI summary Read the abstract
This narrative review examined the sources and health implications of microplastics in dental settings, identifying dental materials, procedures, and equipment as underrecognized sources of patient and clinician exposure. The review calls for greater awareness and standardized safety protocols in dentistry.
Release of microplastics during dental procedures and denture wear: Impact on dental personnel and patients
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers found that common dental procedures like grinding and cleaning dentures release significant amounts of microplastics into the air and surroundings. Both dental workers and patients are exposed to these particles through inhalation and ingestion during routine dental care. This study identifies dental clinics as a previously unrecognized source of microplastic exposure for both healthcare workers and the general public.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.