Evaluation of Dental Solid Waste Management in Yasuj, Iran

Due to the crucial role of dental solid waste in the spreading of pathogens and threats to human health and the environment, its optimal management is very important.
This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. The study population consisted of 40 dental centers, from among which 11 dental centers were selected through random sampling. From each center, 3 samples were collected during 3 successive days (Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday). These materials were divided into 5 categories of pathologic, chemical-pharmaceutical, infectious, semi-domestic, and sharp material, then, they were weighted using a laboratory scale. In order to assess the dental waste material management method, a 25-item checklist was used.
Findings: The maximum and minimum average weights were that of infectious waste (1920 g) and pathological waste (32 g), respectively. The maximum averaged weight per capital was related to infectious waste (43 g) and chemical-pharmaceutical waste (23.15 g), respectively. The maximum seasonal rate of waste per capita was that of infectious waste (60%) and chemical-pharmaceutical waste (21%), respectively.
The present study showed that in most of the studied centers, no plan existed for the reduction of waste production. Regarding the optimal management of solid waste, it is suggested that, in addition to teaching dentists to reduce, separate, and recycle the waste within their offices, the collection, transportation, and disposal of each component of the wastes should be performed separately and in accordance with the guidelines.