A SPOTLIGHT ON SUSTAINABLE DENTISTRY BY THE PROBE
We are pleased to share that our founder, Davinder Raju, was recently featured in an insightful interview with Probe Dental Magazine. The piece, titled "Future-proof your dental practice," explores Davinder's mission to make dentistry more sustainable through his initiative, Greener Dentistry Global. Here are some key takeaways from the interview:
A Passion for Sustainability
Davinder's dedication to sustainability is deeply rooted in his upbringing and professional experiences. Raised with a profound respect for nature, he became increasingly aware of humanity's impact on the planet. A pivotal moment during his Master's in minimal intervention restorative dentistry led him to draw parallels between the human microbiome and the global ecosystem. Just as an imbalance in the oral microbiome can lead to health issues, unsustainable dental practices disrupt the health of our planet.
Sustainability as a Business Advantage
Davinder emphasises that adopting sustainable practices is not only beneficial for the planet but also makes sound business sense. With 40% of Gen Z consumers in the UK preferring businesses with strong environmental credentials and 73% willing to pay more for sustainable products, the future market is clearly leaning green. Moreover, millennial employees are likelier to stay with employers who prioritise environmental standards, which can enhance staff retention and morale.
Challenges in Sustainable Dentistry
Despite the clear benefits, several barriers hinder the widespread adoption of sustainable practices in dentistry. Patient safety remains a top priority, leading to a heavy reliance on single-use plastics. Davinder calls for a balance between maintaining safety standards and reducing environmental impact. He advocates for reintroducing common sense and developing systems to minimise reliance on single-use plastics while ensuring patient safety.
Greener Dentistry Global: Making Sustainability Achievable
Greener Dentistry Global aims to simplify the journey towards sustainability for dental practices. The online hub offers a community forum for sharing ideas and product recommendations, creating a comprehensive database of eco-friendly dental supplies. The practice accreditation scheme further ensures transparency and reduces greenwashing by requiring practices to be completed and providing evidence for various sustainability initiatives.
Support from Henry Schein
Henry Schein's Practice Green initiative has been a significant supporter of Greener Dentistry Global. Their endorsement at the FDI World Congress and efforts to connect like-minded individuals have been invaluable in advancing the cause of sustainable dentistry.
Future Challenges
Looking ahead, Davinder identifies clear aligners and potential amalgam bans as significant challenges. The forecasted growth of the clear aligner market poses a recycling dilemma, while the possible ban on amalgam in Europe necessitates the development of more durable and eco-friendly materials. Davinder stresses the importance of focusing on prevention to reduce the need for restorative materials and mitigate environmental impact.
This interview underscores our commitment to promoting eco-friendly practices within the dental industry. By addressing the challenges and leveraging the opportunities presented by sustainability, we can ensure a healthier planet and a thriving dental profession.
For more information, join us at Greener Dentistry Global and explore how to make a difference.
Find out more about Henry Schein’s Practice Green initiative at https://info.henryschein.co.uk/practice-green