Dental waste disposal

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Dental Waste Collection, Disposal and Recycling

Dental practices generate various types of waste, including amalgam, impression materials, clinical waste and other potentially hazardous materials. All types of dental waste need to be segregated and disposed of inline with regulations.

Implementing efficient dental waste management practices is vital to minimise the ecological impact and maintain a clean and safe working environment. At Initial Medical we offer a range of dental waste disposal solutions including gypsum waste containers and amalgam separators. We can also collect and dispose of dental waste equipment.

What is Dental Waste?

Dental waste refers to any material generated within a dental practice that requires proper disposal due to potential health or environmental risks. Depending on the type of waste, it must be segregated and disposed of in line with regulations outlined in The Controlled Waste Regulations, The Environmental Protection Act 1990 and Article 10 of the European Union Regulation 2017/852.

Types of Dental Waste

Amalgam Waste

Dental amalgam, a mixture of metals used for dental fillings, contains mercury, which is a hazardous material. Amalgam waste includes particles from overproduction, drilling, removal, and disposal of old fillings. We have a range of specialised dental waste containers for amalgam. In addition, we can also offer amalgam separators and mercury spillage kits to prevent health risks further and protect the environment.

Clinical Waste

This includes materials contaminated with blood, saliva, or other bodily fluids. Items like extracted teeth, used gauze, and disposable instruments fall into this category. We offer dental waste containers specifically designed for teeth and, dental bridges and crowns in addition to our clinical waste disposal range.

Sharps

Dental procedures involve the use of sharp instruments such as needles, scalpel blades, dental burs and any other sharp instruments. Proper disposal of these items is crucial to prevent injuries and the spread of infections. In addition to our range of sharps bins, we can also provide Insafe safer sharps disposal bins, scalpel blade removal system and lockable safer sharps cabinet.

Chemical and Radiographic Waste

Dental practices use various chemicals for cleaning, disinfecting, and developing X-rays. X-ray films, and fixer and developer solutions create waste that requires careful handling due to their chemical composition. Proper disposal is necessary to prevent environmental contamination. As part of the dental waste container range, we have containers specifically designed for the safe disposal of X-ray foils, developer, and fixer solutions.

Pharmaceutical Waste

Expired medications or items that contain medicinal residues such as anesthetic cartridges must be disposed of in the pharmaceutical waste stream. We offer a range of solutions to dispose of pharmaceutical waste in your dental practice.

Our Dental Waste Disposal Service

At Initial Medical we can dispose of all types of dental waste from amalgam to clinical waste, including the disposal of disused dental equipment. Our ADR-accredited technicians collect your dental waste, ready for onward disposal inline with regulations. We offer a range of dental waste collection services in addition to infection control solutions.

  • Compliance assured - With regular advice and compliance audits, we can help ensure your dental waste disposal adheres to current regulations. We will also provide you with your waste documentation via our online customer portal - myInitial.

  • Accredited Technicians - Our ADR-accredited technicians are licensed to collect and carry dangerous goods including hazardous, clinical, and dental waste ready for onward disposal.

  • Scalable solutions - We offer a range of dental waste containers and tailor your collection to suit your budget and needs.

  • Sustainable waste management - Our practices range from paperless documentation to eco-friendly containers made from recycled plastic.  We reuse energy from waste disposal solutions or have dedicated dental waste recycling. Initial Medical is an ISO 14001:2015 environmentally accredited organisation.

  • Peace of mind - Focus on what truly matters, knowing your dental waste is handled safely, and disposed of responsibly through a registered waste carrier.

  • Expertise - Our Initial Medical team of experts provide advice and offer free CPD-accredited online dental waste management courses. We also provide downloadable posters and support materials such as our Follow The Colour Code resources to enhance your understanding of dental waste disposal.

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Why is Dental Waste Management Important?

Dental waste management is crucial for several reasons, encompassing both environmental and public health concerns. Here are key reasons why effective dental waste management is important:

Environmental Protection

Dental amalgam contains mercury, which if  disposed of incorrectly can lead to mercury entering water bodies, posing serious environmental risks and affecting aquatic ecosystems. In addition, dental practices also use chemicals, such as disinfectants and X-ray processing solutions. If not disposed of properly, these chemicals can contaminate soil and water, contributing to environmental pollution.

Public Health and Safety

Dental practices generate biological waste that may be contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials. Dental procedures involve the use of sharp instruments like needles and scalpel blades. Proper disposal and handling of such waste are critical to prevent the spread of infections, prevent injuries and protect public health

Compliance with Regulations

Under The Controlled Waste Regulations 2012 clinical waste is identified as controlled waste and therefore requires proper disposal under The Environmental Protection Act 1990. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal penalties, fines, or even the suspension of healthcare facility operations. Proper dental waste disposal ensures compliance and avoids legal consequences.

Our Dental Waste Range