Optimizing human factors in dentistry

Abstract

Occupational health hazards among dental professionals are on a continuous rise and they have asignificant negative overall impact on daily life. This review is intended to provide the information regardingrisk factors and to highlight the prevention strategies for optimizing human factors in dentistry. Riskfactors among dentists are multifactorial, which can be categorized into biomechanical and psychosocial.

To achieve a realistic target of safety and health at work, prevention is clearly the best approach; therefore,musculoskeletal disorders can be reduced through proper positioning of dental worker and patient,regular rest breaks, general good health, using ergonomic equipment, and exercises designed to counteractthe particular risk factors for the dental occupation. However, substantial evidences are still required toelucidate the potential risk factors and to formulate effective prevention programs.

Key Words:Dental ergonomics, ergonomic culture, musculoskeletal disorders, occupational

hazards, prevention strategies, risk factors