Knowledge, Perception and Awareness of Eco-Friendly Dental Material Among Dental Professionals in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Environmental sustainability has emerged as a critical consideration in dental practice due to the ecological and health impacts of conventional dental materials and workflows, prompting increasing interest in eco-friendly alternatives that minimize environmental harm while maintaining clinical efficacy. Objective: To assess the knowledge, perceptions, and awareness of eco-friendly dental materials among dental professionals in Pakistan and to identify perceived barriers and facilitators influencing their adoption in clinical practice. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional observational study was conducted from July to October 2025 among dental students, house officers, general practitioners, postgraduate residents, and specialists across Pakistan. Data were collected using a structured, close-ended online questionnaire assessing demographics, awareness, perceptions of clinical effectiveness and patient satisfaction, perceived barriers, and willingness to adopt eco-friendly dental materials. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze associations between respondent characteristics and study outcomes, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 380 dental professionals participated in the study. Overall, 86.8% were familiar with eco-friendly dental materials, while only a minority reported frequent use in practice. Nearly half (47.9%) believed that eco-friendly materials might compromise clinical outcomes, whereas 87.1% perceived an improvement in patient satisfaction. A strong willingness to adopt sustainable alternatives was observed, with 91.1% willing to switch if materials were clinically proven and cost-effective, and 82.9% willing to pay a 10–15% premium. Major barriers included limited availability and inadequate awareness or training (58.5% each), followed by high cost (57.0%). Conclusion: Dental professionals in Pakistan demonstrate high awareness and positive attitudes toward eco-friendly dental materials; however, adoption is constrained by structural and economic barriers and concerns regarding clinical performance. Strengthening clinical evidence, improving access, and integrating sustainability into dental education and policy frameworks may facilitate broader implementation