Evaluation of Quantity and Quality of Dental Solid Waste

Introduction: Today, one of the most important environmental issues is dental solid wastes that because of the presence of hazardous, toxic and pathogen agents have special importance. In this study, solid waste produced in Shahroud general dental offices was studied. Methods: In this descriptive study, all dental offices in Shahrood were selected. From each office 3 samples were analyzed at the end of successive working days (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday). Samples were manually sorted into different 64 components and by means of laboratory scale were measured. Then, measured components were classified on the basis of characteristic and hazardous potential as well as material type. Results: Total annual waste produced in dental offices in Shahrood is 2425.48 kg. Production percentages of infectious, domestic type, chemical and pharmaceutical, and toxic wastes were 46.0%, 43.8%, 9.2% and 1.0%, respectively. Conclusion: For the proper management of dental waste, it is suggested that in addition to educating dentists in waste reduction, separation and recycling inside the offices, each section of dental waste be managed separately and according to related criteria.