Our dental office started many years ago to incorporate products that are more eco- friendly/ Green and help reduce waste products. We are a electronic office, eliminating paper charts. Our digital charting system has reduced a multitude of paper waste and chart waste.
We also have digital imaging technology in the office. We have eliminated the need for toxic x-ray development and fixer chemicals, reduced the use of lead and plastics. Our patients are exposed to 90% less radiation with the use of digital x-rays and the new technology uses less electricity.
We use a waterless vacuum system which saves in water, and we changed to a steam based surgical grade instrument sterilization unit, which contains no harmful chemicals and also reduces water use.
We have installed a special water filtration system that allows for environmentally sound disposal of old mercury fillings to prevent pollution of local water ways.
We had Recology come to our office to help locate other ways we can recycle better, both here at the office and at home. All paper products are shredded and put into our recycling bin, as are all boxes, and all allowable plastics. Some of the other office changes have been to use biodegradable cups, energy efficient washer, dryer, recycled paper.
We continue to look into new Green practice solutions and our goal is to reduce, reuse and recycle.