Knowledge, attitude, and practice of dental professionals towards green dentistry in Karachi city- a cross-sectional survey
摘要
Environmental degradation from pollution, global warming, and industrialization, is alarming with dentistry significantly contributing through mercury and plastic toxicity from improper waste handling.
AimTo evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of Dental professionals towards “Green Dentistry” working in the public and private sectors of Karachi city.
DesignA cross-sectional survey.
SettingKarachi, Pakistan (Online).
Materials and methodsAn online questionnaire was conducted among dentists of Karachi, Pakistan, from January to June 2023 collecting participant’s demographic data and assessing knowledge, attitude, and practice of eco-friendly dentistry.
ResultsWith a 61% response rate, most respondents (48.5%) were General Dental Practitioners (GDPs). Dental consultants (DC) exhibited higher awareness of green dentistry (29%) with 50% of DCs favoring digital radiography as environmentally friendly (p < 0.05). Green dentistry practices were more prevalent among DCs with 42.8% (p < 0.05) eliminating amalgam usage, while more GDPs (72.2%, p < 0.05) adopted re-usable lab coats and patient drapes.
Discussion and conclusionAwareness of “Green Dentistry” is generally lacking among participants. Both GDPs and DCs are inclined towards adopting environment-friendly dental practices. Education on energy conservation and materials is essential to reduce waste in the dental industry.