One Health Dentistry – A Narrative Review

Abstract

One Health Dentistry (OHD) uses the One Health (OH) concept in dental science to show how the health and balance of people, animals, and the environment are all connected. Zoonotic diseases are responsible for 60% of recognized infections and 75% of new infections globally, with dentists playing a vital role in the early identification of oral symptoms. Global antimicrobial resistance necessitates the immediate implementation of more prudent antibiotic utilization in dental practice and the extensive adoption of antimicrobial stewardship. In addition, dental materials such as amalgam and composites, as well as single-use plastics and disinfectants, all generate hazardous waste, which demands sustainable management guided by the “Four Rs”: Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Even though its relevance, awareness and integration of the OH approach in dentistry remain limited. Therefore, this narrative review summarizes key opportunities and challenges for dental professionals and also urges other disciplines to reflect upon and integrate the OH approach collaboratively to contribute to India’s National One Health Mission.