(PO-021) Exploring Sustainable Dentistry: Nebraska Dentists' Beliefs and Awareness

Author: Sydney Armstrong
Author: Jared Smalley
Author: Sarah G. Lowman, D.D.S. MPH – Dr. Sarah G Lowman, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry
Submitter: Sydney Armstrong

Introduction: Mounting concerns about the impact of climate change on health have spurred debate and research among educators on best practices within health professions training programs to engage learners with this content in meaningful ways. Sustainable and “green” dental practices are an important part of this discussion, as dentistry is a resource-intensive practice that includes consumption of plastics, water, electricity, and chemical pollutants. However, few studies have investigated the attitudes and beliefs of practicing dentists regarding climate change, health, and environmentally friendly practice approaches. It is unclear where the gaps lie and how to best address them in dental education. Our study aims to describe common dental practice patterns that may contribute to climate change, dentists’ beliefs related to climate change and health, and opportunities for continuing education and pre-doctoral dental education.

Methods: A REDCap survey will be distributed via email to licensed dentists in Nebraska (n=1600). Survey items are grouped into four domains: (1) dental practice patterns, (2) beliefs about climate change and health, (3) interest in learning about sustainable practice and climate change, and (4) demographics.

Results: Survey results will provide understanding of dentists’ awareness and prevailing beliefs about climate change and eco-friendly practice in one Midwestern state. To our knowledge, this study will be the first of its kind. In turn, study results will inform the development of curricula aimed at equipping clinicians with the knowledge and skills to reduce the dental profession’s environmental impact while increasing sustainability.

Conclusion: This study will elucidate knowledge and beliefs among dentists related to climate change and health, and eco-friendly practice. In addition, current dental practice patterns in a Midwestern state will be described and discussed. Implications exist for the development of timely and innovative curricula in both pre-doctoral and continuing education.