Dr. Namrata Patel

Dr. Namrata Patel, Green dentistry pioneer, is the first dentist to make a serious commitment to green sustainable business practices in San Francisco. Dr. Patel takes a unique approach to combine dentistry and conserve the environment, using non toxic products, reducing waste and being minimally invasive.

Dr. Nammy conducts research and development to set standards in Green Dentistry and serves as a Enviro-mentor for the San Francisco Environment Agency to help small business become green.

Dr. Nammy graduated with honors from University of Southern California School of Dentistry. Currently, she serves on the New Dentist Committee with the California Dental Association and is a guest member of the Scientific Sessions Board of Manager.

Please tell us a little about yourself.

I was born in my living room in a little villageof 8 houses in India. My family immigrated to San Francisco when I was 6 years-old. I went to the local public schools. I attended the University of the Pacific and received my undergraduate degree in Biology. I was inspired to become a dentist while I was volunteering for a non-profit government clinic at UOP. I really loved interacting with patients and making them feel at ease. It was then I decided to pursue dentistry. I went on the University of Southern California, where I received my Doctor of Dental Surgery.

How have you implemented and incorporated the Green Dentist approach in your practice and team care?

We have taken many measures to be environmentally conscious.

• Patient relationship: We create partnership with our clients so we codiscover, diagnose and treatment plan with our clients.

• Materials and equipment: We use digital imaging, which means no toxic fixers or lead waste in the water. Digital charting means no paper use.OSHA-compliant natural cloth covers and bibs.Steam-based surgical sterilization vs. machines that use chemicals.

Restorations and materials that don't increase hormone levels. Nontoxic disinfectants. Mercury-free office so no silver fillings are placed. Safe protocol set-up for mercury filling removal. We also use nontoxic disinfectants, so there are no glutaraldehyde components. Our amalgam sequestration filter separates mercury during removal, which is safely removed yearly. We also prioritize and discuss silver mercury filling replacements. Our in-house CEREC® machine allows us to replace crowns, lessening discomfort and reducing the need for additional visits.

• Office design and administration: Green Dentistry offices are U.S. Green Building Council LEED Silver Certified. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Which means that five key areas of human and environmental health" including are taken into account which are Sustainable site development, Water savings, energy efficiency and materials selection. We used non-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, FSC-certified (Forest Stewardship Council) wood, so there's no off-gassing. The air is HEPA-filtered, eliminating the stale, medical aroma. We use distilled water for all of our cleaning.

• Natural capitalism and the green business network: Organizations such as the Green Chamber of Commerce, Green America, Eco Dentistry Association, or other certifying organizations connect green businesses and organizations to create an effective green corporate network structure. Services such as Dharma Merchants, New Resources Bank, The Green Office, and others allow you to support other businesses with sustainable bottom lines and attract like-minded clients in the process.

What type of marketing promotes your presence and how do you use marketing to reach out to "green friendly" patients?

Most of our clients are referred to us by other clients. Our clients support and believe in what we're doing and go out of their way to help spread the word.

What are some of the challenges you have faced in becoming a Green Dentist? How did you overcome them?

The structure was very difficult to put together. Hiring employees, finding funding, and marketing the practice. I had to invest into alot of EDUCATION. I took a mini-MBA for dentists and continue to take courses. By seeking out additional education, it has helped me to put together a business plan and to take strategic actions to ensure a successful business. It was also difficult explainng what a green dentist is without people being skeptical.

What makes you smile?

My clients make me smile. I have been blessed with so many great people from the community. I feel like they are more like my friends than clients.