Occupational hazards to dental staff

Abstract

Dental professionals are predisposed to a number of occupational hazards. These include exposure
to infections (including Human Immunodeficiency Virus and viral hepatitis); percutaneous exposure
incidents, dental materials, radiation, and noise; musculoskeletal disorders; psychological problems
and dermatitis; respiratory disorders; and eye insults. Percutaneous exposure incidents remain a
main concern, as exposure to serious infectious agents is a virtual risk. Minimizing percutaneous
exposure incidents and their consequences should continue to be considered, including sound
infection control practices, continuing education, and hepatitis B vaccination. Basically, for any
infection control strategies, dentists should be aware of individual protective measures and
appropriate sterilization or other high-level disinfection utilities. Strained posture at work disturbs
the musculoskeletal alignment and leads to stooped spine. The stooped posture also involved
certain groups of muscles and joints. This may lead to diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
Continuous educating and appropriate intervention studies are needed to reduce the complication
of these hazards. So, it is important for dentists to remain constantly up-to-date about measures
on how to deal with newer strategies and dental materials, and implicates the need for special
medical care for this professional group.
Key Words: Dental staff, dentist, occupational disease