Sustainable orthodontics sets the stage for eco-friendly clear alginer treatment

Global sustainability is a highly pertinent and widely debated issue that plagues the modern world. The concept of sustainability arises from fostering a healthy relationship between humans and nature where societies and the biosphere can coexist in productive harmony and stability to support both the present as well as future generations.

Dentistry may not inherently be perceived as a sustainable profession owing to the heaps and heaps of dental waste generated from homes, offices, and dental schools. However, with new initiatives from experts and dentists worldwide, the industry has actively implemented mitigation plans and sustainable development goals into daily practice to support a shift to a greener economy.

As the dental sphere becomes more environmentally conscious, the subsector of orthodontics has also made some remarkable strives with regard to sustainable development and conservation. Modern clear aligner treatments are currently at the forefront of this sustainable orthodontic revolution.

In this article, we explore and highlight the intriguing relationship between sustainability and teeth straightening, revealing how cutting-edge materials are reshaping the future of clear aligners.

The Green Revolution: Eco-Friendly Practices in Aligner Treatment

• Bioplastics: Turning wasteland into an oasis

Traditional braces as well as conventional plastics are notorious for ending up as landfill fodder, contributing to the ever-growing plastic problem. However, clear aligners are crafted from biocompatible, plant-based plastics that can break down naturally over time. Since these biodegradable plastics can break down naturally, they leave a significantly smaller ecological footprint. By choosing PlusSmile® clear aligners, you are nourishing a sustainable choice for the planet while at the same time investing in your dream smile.

• Reducing the carbon footprint

The green journey that clear aligners like PlusSmile® go through extends beyond the materials themselves. Their manufacturing process embraces energy-efficient technologies, reducing their carbon footprint and minimizing environmental impact. Choosing clear aligners over traditional metal braces can mean contributing to a greener dental industry that prioritizes both healthy smiles and a healthy planet.

• Minimizing waste through 3D printing

Clear aligners are manufactured through a self-sustaining process using state-of-the-art 3D printing technology. This cutting-edge innovation ensures that material usage is optimized so that waste production can be minimized. As compared to traditional braces that use metal brackets and wires, clear aligners require fewer resources and are currently a key player in orthodontic sustainability.

What can we do to promote sustainability in orthodontics?

There is more to promoting sustainability than relying on manufacturing companies to produce biodegradable and BPA-free clear aligners. There are many ways we can ensure a greener presence in the orthodontic space.

• Switch to renewable energy

Orthodontics can be closely involved in reducing their practice’s carbon footprint by adopting energy-efficient practices. Transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar power can be a big, grueling yet necessary step in the future of clear aligners. Doing so can significantly reduce the clinic’s dependency on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

• Invest in energy-efficient appliances

Utilizing LED lighting and energy-star-rated equipment in your dental clinic can help reduce the energy consumption that goes into fabricating clear aligners. Other digital technologies like electronic health records and digital imaging minimize chemicals as well as reduce paper trail, which can all contribute to a more sustainable practice.

• Minimize treatment waste

Clinicians can adopt a more conservative approach when it comes to treatment processes. By prioritizing the preservation of the natural tooth structure. By reducing the need for unnecessary treatment procedures or faulty treatment steps, you can minimize treatment waste that comes out of your clinic.

• Be responsible with waste management

Medical-grade plastics used to manufacture clear aligners are much easier to dispose of as they become encumbered later on. Experts suggest that, as a rule of thumb, plastics that come out of an orthodontic office should always be considered infectious and should not be disposed of with regular municipal waste.

By implementing effective waste management strategies such as recycling and proper disposal of hazardous materials, you can also ensure that your orthodontic clinic operates in a responsible and environmentally conscious manner.

• Advocate community awareness and engagement

Orthodontists reserve the right and responsibility to raise awareness about sustainable orthodontic practices within their locality. Educating patients and the public about adopting eco-friendly approaches, such as bringing their aligners for proper disposal to the dental office at the end of their treatments, can encourage greater adoption within the communities. These small steps can contribute to creating a positive impact on oral health and the environment.

• Efficient Equipment and Technologies

Investing in energy-efficient appliances, such as LED lighting and energy-star-rated equipment, can help reduce energy consumption. Additionally, digital technologies, like electronic health records and digital imaging, minimize the need for paper and chemicals, leading to a more sustainable practice.

Takeaway

Mankind, during its evolution as a species, has not been greatly concerned about conserving the environment. However, there is an urgent and irrefutable need for greater concern and care about the management of human resources and environmental impacts arising from human activities.

As the global focus on sustainability intensifies, it is causing a fundamental shift in the way we think about and approach orthodontics. You can also play your role in making our world a cleaner and greener one by choosing clear aligners like PlusSmile®, a revolutionary clear aligner system that is quickly taking over the market.