Shahroud University of Medical siences Shahroud Journal of Medical Sciences 2423-6594 11 3 2025 08 15 Issues and Challenges of Biomedical Waste Management Practices in Dental Healthcare: An Institutional Study eng Somalee Mahapatra PhD Scholar/ Tutor, Department of Prosthodontics, Institute of Dental Sciences, Siksha O Anusandhan (Deemed to be) University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.. somaleemohapatra@soa.ac.in Manoranjan Dash Professor, Faculty of Management Science, IBCS, Siksha O Anusandhan (Deemed to be) University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.. manoranjandash@soa.ac.in Aurolipy Das Associate Professor, Faculty of Management Science, IBCS, Siksha O Anusandhan (Deemed to be) University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.. aurolipy@soa.ac.in Priyanka Debta Professor, Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Institute of Dental Science and Hospitals, Siksha O Anusandhan (Deemed to be) University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.. debtapriyanka@gmail.com Subhasis Mohanty Histopathology Consultant, Department of Pathology, SUM Ultimate Medicare, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.. subhasismohanty@soa.ac.in 2025 05 14 2025 07 08 Background: Biomedical waste management (BWM) in dental institutions is a crucial public health concern due to the risks associated with improper waste disposal. However, infrastructural limitations, inadequate training, lack of expertise, and financial constraints often hinder effective management. This study aimed to identify and evaluate the challenges associated with BWM in dental healthcare institutions and propose practical recommendations for improvement. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was adopted. The qualitative component included a thorough review of existing literature and in-depth interviews with healthcare professionals and support staff to understand current practices and perceived challenges. The quantitative component involved a nationwide survey targeting dental institutions in India, focusing on departmental waste management practices and difficulties encountered. Statistical analyses, including analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Welch tests, were performed to assess variations in types of biomedical waste across different departments. Results: The study classified the various types of biomedical waste generated in different departments. For instance, the Department of Oral Surgery primarily generates extracted teeth and post-operative tissues, while the Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology produces lead aprons and radiographic films. Significant inter-departmental variation in waste types was observed (P-value<0.05). Key challenges included limited infrastructure, ambiguous regulatory guidelines, lack of training, and cultural or administrative barriers. Interviews revealed limited awareness among staff regarding waste segregation and transport, indicating the need for more effective training initiatives. Conclusions: A comprehensive and practical approach is essential for enhancing BWM in dental institutions. Improvements in infrastructure, increased financial support, and structured training programs are critical to ensuring effective and sustainable waste-handling practices.