Sustainable Pediatric Dentistry: A Narrative Review

Abstract

AbstractSustainability in healthcare focuses on delivering effective and ethical care while minimizingenvironmental, social, and economic harm. Pediatric dentistry contributes significantly to theenvironmental footprint of oral healthcare due to frequent patient visits, extensive use ofdisposable materials, and reliance on energy-intensive equipment. Growing global concernregarding climate change has prompted dentistry to reassess conventional practices and explore environmentally responsible alternatives. This narrative review highlights key aspects of sustainable pediatric dentistry, including environmental impact, eco-friendly materials andminimally invasive techniques, energy conservation and waste management, digitalization, education and awareness, and policy frameworks. Adoption of sustainable strategies can help pediatric dentistry balance high-quality clinical care with environmental stewardship. In addition, integrating sustainability into pediatric dental practice supports long-term oral health outcomes by promoting safer clinical environments and efficient resource utilization. Emphasizing professional education, policy support, and community engagement can facilitate widespread adoption of green practices, enabling pediatric dentistry to contribute meaningfully to sustainable healthcare systems while addressing the ethical responsibility of protecting children’s health and the environment.