Dentsply Sirona organised a fireside chat during IDS 2023 to inspire action and reinforce the importance of collaboration and partnership in effecting positive change.

From reducing the dental industry’s impact on the environment to increasing access to oral health, the event featured a diverse range of perspectives from Dentsply Sirona executives, Prof. Ihsane Ben Yahya (President of FDI), a representative from Haleon (formerly GSK Consumer Healthcare), and dental professionals.

As part of the Dentsply Sirona (DS) talks, hosted by moderator Tina Tosha, the session assembled experts from various parts of the industry to discuss how dental professionals can make a positive impact on the planet.

United for Sustainable Dentistry

The discussion, entitled “DS Talks United for sustainable dentistry”, centred on sustainability in the dental industry. The goal of the discussion was to inspire action and collaboration to make a positive impact on the planet and communities.

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The speakers highlighted the importance of reducing the environmental impact of dentistry and the dental industry, increasing access to healthcare, and using eco-friendly and sustainable materials to reduce waste. They also talked about the negative feelings and challenges that dentists face when it comes to implementing sustainability practices in their profession.

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Dental Professionals have a Responsibility to Reduce Environmental Impact

According to a UK founding member of the FDI Sustainability and Dentistry task team, dental professionals have a responsibility to reduce the environmental impact of the industry.

This includes reducing the use of resources and energy throughout the supply chain, from manufacturing to disposal. The goal is to create a sustainable approach to dentistry that benefits patients and the planet.

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The Era of the Anthropocene

The current era, known as the anthropocene, is the result of human activity shaping the world we live in. The Industrial Revolution, which began in England 250 years ago, led to the spread of industrialization across the world. Today, all individuals, businesses, and governments have a role to play in shaping the future of the planet.

According to the panel, dental professionals can make a positive impact by using eco-friendly and sustainable materials, reducing waste by using reusable materials, and prioritizing preventative healthcare. Sustainability is not just about being kind to the planet, but also about doing the best for patients without being detrimental to their future health.

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Overcoming Negative Feelings

Despite personal interest in sustainability, the panel pointed out that some dental professionals may feel negative emotions, such as worry or disappointment, when it comes to making changes in their vocational life.

Overcoming this apathy, they concluded, requires recognizing the importance of creating a sustainable cycle in the industry and producing the right products for dental professionals to use.