Green Dental Office Profiles


Green Dental Office Profiles

Joseph Manzi, DDS
Eastchester, New York


1. What was the easiest aspect of going green?
Being a "startup" practice made it much easier to incorporate the principles of a "green" practice. The direction I received as a member of the Eco-Dentistry Association helped greatly in achieving the goals for a healthier practice.

2. What was the most unexpected benefit of being a green dental office?
I have been impressed with all the ways going paperless has improved staff efficiency. The digital communications aspect of paperless charting has streamlined communications with patients and specialists. The ability to diagnose X-rays immediately is a great benefit - patients aren't anxiously sitting around. The speed with which my staff can process insurance claims and pre-authorizations means they are more productive. I have also found my green office attracts a higher caliber of employee who is looking for an efficient, state-of-the-art practice where they can be at the top of their game.

3. How have your patients responded to you having a green dental office?
Very positively! Many of my current patients are from my previous location, and they love the changes I've made. A patient's first impression of the office creates confidence in the practice. Being green leaves a strong positive impression that the office is on the cutting edge and looking to the future.

4. If there was one thing you could tell your colleagues to do to go green, what would it be?
My colleagues must convince themselves of the importance of going green and how it will help to improve our environment. Then take the first step and contact the Eco-Dentistry Association for guidance and review their checklist.

5. Why would you say dentistry's future is green?
As dentists, and as professionals, we all accept the responsibility of being notable in our communities. We are respected leaders. A green dental office reinforces that image and sets an example for others to follow in their own lives.

Dr. Phillip Moorad
Aesthetic Dental Health
Avondale, Arizona


1. What was the easiest aspect of "going green"?
Transitioning to green was simple and created no down time for our office treating our clients.

2. What was the most unexpected benefit of being a green dental office?
Our office feels much cleaner now that we've gotten rid of disposables. There is less clutter and it appears more organized.

3. How have your patients responded to your green dental office?
Dental patients are very observant. Our patients have noticed the subtle changes we've made and appreciate our dedication to be more eco-friendly. That perception of our dedication translates to how they perceive our care for their dental wellness. They feel we are a more responsible dental office in every aspect. Our patients tell us how happy they are we have decided to make the change.



4. If there were just one thing you'd tell your colleagues to do to "go green," what would it be?
Get rid of that old X-ray film developing system and go digital. This is a prime example of how to be more cost-effective and efficient while reducing waste and pollution.

5. Why would you say dentistry's future is green?
It just makes sense. You can become more profitable, reduce your carbon footprint, decrease toxic waste in your community, and patients love it. Green dental offices deliver a safe, high-quality service and maintain or exceed OSHA standards. When you know the problem, you become more aware and can visualize what you need to change. It's important for dentists to recognize the impact of our business practices, and to envision a clean, green future.

Dr. Steve Green
Team Green Dentistry
Fishers, Indiana


1. What was the easiest aspect of "going green"?
Knowing it's the right thing to do – after hearing Tom Friedman speak in 2009, I felt it was not only the right thing to do, but it's also patriotic.

2. What was the most unexpected benefit of being a green dental office?
I thought going green would cost more. I was surprised to find the expense was neutral at worst. I've also seen time savings and have eliminated the purchase of some unnecessary products altogether.

3. How have your patients responded to your green dental office? Very positively – I think people are very comfortable with being eco-friendly and are quick to join in.


4. If there were just one thing you'd tell your colleagues to do to "go green," what would it be?
Eliminate disposables. Sterilize and re-use instead to reduce waste and save money. Before disposables came along, we sterilized and re-used.

5. Why would you say dentistry's future is green?
Dentistry has a history of being focused on prevention. This should be no different. We have opportunities to reduce our effect on our communities and prevent the damage done by wasteful and polluting methods. As health educators, we can use the regular contact with our patients to educate them about environmental issues, too.
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