Objective:

To quantify the carbon footprint of dental nitrous oxide use and identify opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while preserving patient care.

Key Findings:

• Mean carbon footprint per sedation appointment was 28.62 kg CO2 equivalent.
• Carbon footprint varied from 10.74 to 40.67 kg CO2 equivalent across sites.
• Average weekly footprint per service was 518.25 kg CO2 equivalent.
• 84% of sites used cylinder supply for nitrous oxide, while 16% used centrally piped systems.
• Average wastage was 4% for cylinder supplies and 30% for piped supplies.
• Flow rate had the greatest influence on overall emissions, with a mean flow rate of 5.84 L/min.

Interpretation:

Nitrous oxide used in dentistry has a significant environmental impact, primarily due to its greenhouse gas emissions, but remains clinically effective with a high success rate.

Limitations:

• Study focused on UK dental services, limiting generalizability.
• Variation in flow rates and administration practices may affect results.

Conclusion:

Dental clinicians should monitor nitrous oxide use and wastage, standardize training, and reassess practices to reduce carbon footprint while maintaining patient benefits.