We've all seen how dentistry has changed over the past couple of decades; from expensive treatments to at-home solutions, as tech and modern machinery provide the infrastructure for advancement, patients across the globe have benefited from the varying options we've seen taking our markets by storm.

But how does all this advancement affect our world as a whole?

Dental Retainers have revolutionized dental care by providing a discreet and efficient alternative to traditional braces, however, as the popularity of these clear aligners grows, so does the concern for the environmental impact they pose. 

Each year, an estimated 25 metric tons of waste is generated from discarded dental retainers. 

Recognizing the need to address this issue, the innovative team at Banning Dental Clinic partnered with us to embark on a unique project that not only enhances their patient's experiences but also contributes to sustainability efforts in an industry that is often less concerned with initiatives and most concerned about profits.

Here's how we did it, step by step:

Enter the Skull Artwork

To achieve our vision and fully explore the subject matter in a tactile and visual way, we decided to deviate from traditional approaches.

Instead of using boring, often medical-feeling ceramic teeth to display the aligners, we were thrilled when Banning accepted and embraced our proposition for an unconventional choice?a skull.

The skull's association with rebellion, uniqueness, and individuality perfectly resonated with the clinic's mission to create a stand-out, non-generic element of surprise.

With the green light go-ahead, we began to flesh out the idea that is now known as one of our most successful yet.

  

A Fusion of Art and Sustainability

With the skull as their canvas, the team set out to create visually stunning artwork that symbolized different stages of an Invisalign treatment journey.

However, they didn't stop at aesthetics alone.

Recognizing the pressing need to address the waste generated by dental retainers, sustainability was infused into every aspect of the project. From the craftsmanship in the skulls themselves, to the box and bag apparatus design underneath each skull acting as a used retainer depository, the stage was set for this art installation to shine.

Recycling Aligners

To tackle the environmental impact of discarded aligners, the team incorporated recycling boxes into the artwork installation. Patients are encouraged to recycle their used aligners during the progress of their treatment, contributing to waste reduction efforts and promoting a greener dental care approach.

A Message of Sustainability

Furthering their commitment to sustainability, the team developed bespoke one-line graphics that conveyed Banning Dental and Skin Clinique's message on preserving the environment. These graphics seamlessly integrated with the existing artwork style of the clinic's beauty room, fostering a cohesive and impactful sustainability narrative.

Artistic Expressions and Symbolism

Each skull in the artwork represents a distinct stage of an Invisalign treatment, paying tribute to various art forms, cultural celebrations, and iconic figures. Now on display at Banning's Blackfriars location, guests are encouraged to stop by and experience the magic of each in-person.

Moving Forward

Now that the Art Installation is fully launched and collecting recycled retainers as we speak, it's up to us to continue to raise awareness on the subject, and encourage others to do the same. While we all love how convenient modern dentistry has helped us make strong decisions for our own personal hygiene and cosmetics efforts, we understand the world needs to start weighing solutions not only by their effect on the end-user themselves, but on the globe as a whole and the environments we live in on them.

Will you help us further sustainability efforts in the industry by visiting the exhibition and sharing your experience with us?