Abstract:

  Background and aim: The purpose of this study was to analyze the components of waste products generated at dental centers.

  Materials and methods: In this study, 37 dental centers were studied in 9 regions which were selected using regional sampling pattern. Each of the three waste samples at the end of three consecutive working days (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday each week) were analyzed. Samples were separated manually and weighed and divided into 64 different components. Measured components were categorized based on the characteristics and potential hazards. The Excel software was used for data and statistical analysis.

  Results: The total amount of waste generated per year in dental offices was 62661.60 kg. The volumes of generated infectious, domestic, pharmaceutical, and poisonous chemical waste products were 50.50%, 39.04%, 9.55%, and 0.91% respectively. These findings were similar to the results of other researches conducted prior to this study.

  Conclusion: Understanding the components of dental waste materials is essential for proper waste management including collection, processing, transport, and disposal of hazardous products.