Probably the most commonly asked question we’ve had since opening, the simple response is that our practice focuses on water and energy conservation while reducing waste in the day-to-day practice of dentistry. We recently helped sponsor Rogue Valley Earth Day and exhibited our practice in April, and this question came from almost everyone.
One of my favorite statistics involves the waterless vacuum system. A traditional wet vacuum generates suction through the use of clean, fresh, drinking water. The average system can use (waste) upwards of 200,000 gallons of water in one year. They also use oil-based lubricants and generate less suction than a dry vacuum. Being a smaller practice, our dry system saves us roughly 300 gallons of water per day in waste, while running at a lower RPM (which requires less energy) without the need for petroleum based lubrication (waste/service). Systems such as these make Green Dentistry rewarding!
How can you help? Our population is growing, and our demands grow with it. It should be no surprise to anyone that a little bit goes a long way towards water conservation. A person who brushes for 2 minutes with the water on wastes about 90 glasses of water per day! Recently, the Eco Dentistry Association, of which our practice is a Gold Certified Member, implemented a “Save 90 a Day” commitment challenge. Are you ready to make an easy change? To learn more, please visit the page set up by the EDA at: http://www.ecodentistry.org/green-dental-patients/save-90-day-patients/
My practice offers comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry. I believe in a conservative, quality-focused approach to care and enjoy the opportunity to meet, discuss, and plan dental care for the present and future with my patients. We currently welcome new patients at 727 N. Main, Ashland, across from The Breadboard.
