Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in Australian dentists and orthodontists: Risk assessment and prevention

Perceived Occupational Stress and Its Psychosocial Predictors Among Indian Orthodontists

BACKGROUND

Orthodontists, like any other medical professional, are susceptible to cumulative stressors and their undesirable consequences. The study aims to assess the self-perceived occupational stress levels and the psychological link between predictors and stress among orthodontic practitioners in India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The participants in this cross-sectional study are active members of the Indian Orthodontic Society (IOS). The data for the survey were collected by a previously validated closed-ended occupational stress assessment (OSA) questionnaire and a job satisfaction questionnaire, which were sent through the registered e-mails. A five-point Likert scale was used to assess the severity of individual stressors, and an overall severity score was obtained by summing up the individual scores. The predictors of stress based on socio-demographic parameters were assessed using a binomial multiple logistic equation. Statistical significance was set at a p-value of <0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 311 responses were received. Male orthodontists, unmarried, in the age group of 30-40 years, working in urban areas without any academic attachment were more stressed compared to the other groups in the respective categories. Tiredness/headache (39%) was reported as the most common consequence of occupational stress. The most concerning stressor was patients not wearing retainers. Orthodontists showed overall job satisfaction that is negatively correlated to overall stress (p <0.0001)(r = -0.260).

CONCLUSION

A profound variation in stress levels was found among the orthodontists with their socio-demographic and professional characteristics. Despite the stress, orthodontists were highly satisfied with their careers.

Neck and Musculoskeletal Pain Among Dentists: A Review of the Literature

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), notably neck pain, are important occupational health issues in the field of dentistry. Many studies were done worldwide to gather data about neck and back pain. They used different characteristics and risk factors. Other studies aimed to determine only the prevalence of neck and back problems among dentists. We aim to review the literature for research about the optimal factors to be assessed and the proper measures to be installed by dentists to prevent cervical pain and to be taught and shared with dental students. Such an aim requires a thorough review of the current condition. This is a brief review of the literature to shed light on the latest news on this topic. Research using keywords such as dentistry, neck pain, neck pain index, occupational pain, and dental specialties were used to skim the literature for related topics. Publications are considered based on their relevance to the topic. Topics related to other professions and pain induced by illnesses other than occupational factors are not included. The final conclusion shows that no final results were conducted regarding the optimal characteristics that the dentists should be using. Therefore, we recommend a study with an aim to determine the optimal factors to be used by dentists to prevent cervical pain and to be taught to dental students.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among dental healthcare providers: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are common in dentistry due to the prolonged static work involved during patient care, making dental health care personnel vulnerable to musculoskeletal complaints. We aimed to pool the prevalence estimates of MSD among various dental healthcare providers, including dentists, dental students, dental hygienists, and auxiliaries. Methods: A systematic search of five databases was performed (Scopus, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source). The studies that reported the prevalence of MSD among dental healthcare workers and those written in English were selected. Screening and data extraction were performed by two review authors independently. Discrepencies were resolved by another review author. Risk of bias assessment was done using a nine-item questionnaire developed by Hoy et al. Pooled estimates were calculated using meta-analysis of proportions (random effects model). Results: Among the 3090 publications screened, 234 publications were included for full-text screening. Meta-analysis was performed for 89 estimates from 88 publications. Females showed significantly higher prevalence [OR = 1.42 (95% CI = 1.09-1.84); I ² = 66.02; N = 32]. The analysis yielded a pooled estimate of 78.4% (95% CI = 74.8-82). The meta-regression showed similar prevalence over the years (Coefficient: 0.001; P-value: 0.762). Conclusions: A high prevalence of MSD was noted among dental healthcare providers, with about seven out of ten having experienced MSD in the past. This emphasizes the need for awareness and adoption of appropriate ergonomic postures by dental healthcare providers from early in their careers to minimize work-related MSD.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Dentists in the United Arab Emirates: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and Objectives: A dental environment possesses a serious ergonomic health issue on the dental team members which in turn contributes to the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). The present research is aimed at evaluating the frequency of musculoskeletal disorders and their associated sociodemographic and work environment risk factors among dentists in the United Arab Emirates. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a pretested and validated questionnaire was sent via email as well as on different social media platforms to a total of 497 dentists. A total of 179 dentists completed the study survey, with a total response rate of 36%. A binary logistic regression model was conducted to identify significant risk factors associated with WMSDs. Results: Dentists in the United Arab Emirates experience a high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (90.4%) which were associated with high levels of stress in the work environment. Furthermore, dentists in the private sector worked more clinical hours per day (p = 0.000) and had more financial stress (p = 0.007) as compared to those in the governmental sector. Gender (p = 0.007), age (p = 0.01), monthly income (p = 0.073), work experience (p = 0.037), number of patients treated per day (p = 0.049), and the use of an ergonomic dental chair (p = 0.005) were all factors associated with a greater number of affected body regions by WMSDs. Multivariate binary logistic regression for the number of regions affected by WMSDs revealed that not using an ergonomic dental chair (OR 2.70, 95% CI, 1.14-6.36) and high stress in the work environment (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.02 to1.67) were associated with more body regions being affected by WMSDs. Conclusions: This study highlights the high prevalence rate of WMSDs among dentists in the UAE. Future research should be directed towards reducing stress in the work environment, increasing awareness regarding the importance of an ergonomic dental chair, and reducing gaps between private and governmental practices.

Occupational ergonomics and related musculoskeletal disorders among dentists: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

There is an increasing concern about musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), resulting from occupational health hazards among dentists. Dentists who are susceptible to occupational health hazards could develop cumulative trauma disorders, lead to absenteeism from work, loss of productivity and performance or even long-term disability.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among dentists, explore the risk factors and identify the ergonomic preventive measures for dental professionals.

METHODS

Articles published between 2008-2020 were searched in scientific databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane Library). The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Systematic Review Checklist was used to assess the quality of the studies.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies were found to be suitable in the final review. Relevant data was extracted and summarized from the included studies. The annual prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in any body site ranged between 68% and 100%. The most predominant regions for musculoskeletal disorders among dental professionals were identified to be the lower back (29% to 94.6%), shoulder (25% to 92.7%), and neck (26% to 92%). The most frequently reported risk factors of MSDs were the individual characteristic female gender (57.1%), followed by awkward working postures (50%), long working experience (50%) and being dental specialists (42.9%). Several preventive measures were identified as the most effective ways in preventing MSDs, the use of magnification (40%) and regular physical activity (40%).

CONCLUSIONS

This review reported a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) among dentists. It critically updates and adds the latest evidence on occupational ergonomics among dentists.

Musculoskeletal System Problems in Dental Practitioners

Aim: In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the musculoskeletal system problems encountered by dentists working in an oral and dental health center in Kocaeli, Turkey. Methods: This cross-sectional study including 74 dental practitioners was carried out in 4 Oral and Dental Health Centers in Kocaeli between 15-31 January 2020. A questionnaire was used for data collection. The questionnaire consisted of two sections. The first section concerned the sociodemographic characteristics of the subjects whereas the second section consisted of the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics are presented as mean (±) standard deviation, frequency distribution, and percentage. The Chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables. Results: In the study, 70.3% of the subjects were female, 40.5% were aged over 41 years of age, and the average age was 38.1±9.4 years. It was determined that 78.4% of the dental practitioners reported pain in their necks, 50.0% in their shoulders, 67.6% in their backs, 63.5% in wrists and hands, and 68.9% in their lower backs. Moreover, the participants reported experiencing pain severe enough to affect their personal or work lives within the last 12 months in their necks (44.6%), shoulders (23.0%), backs (33.8%), hands and wrists (41.9%), and lower backs (43.2%). Conclusion: In the study, it was found that dentists have a high frequency of musculoskeletal problems. It is recommended that dentists work in a seated position and exercise between studies. Keywords: dentists, musculoskeletal diseases, ergonomics

Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among dental healthcare providers: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are common in dentistry due to the prolonged static work involved during patient care, making dental health care personnel vulnerable to musculoskeletal complaints. We aimed to pool the prevalence estimates of MSD among various dental healthcare providers, including dentists, dental students, dental hygienists, and auxiliaries. Methods: A systematic search of five databases was performed (Scopus, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source). The studies that reported the prevalence of MSD among dental healthcare workers and those written in English were selected. Screening and data extraction were performed by two review authors independently. Discrepencies were resolved by another review author. Risk of bias assessment was done using a nine-item questionnaire developed by Hoy et al. Pooled estimates were calculated using meta-analysis of proportions (random effects model). Results: Among the 3090 publications screened, 234 publications were included for full-text screening. Meta-analysis was performed for 89 estimates from 88 publications. Females showed significantly higher prevalence [OR = 1.42 (95% CI = 1.09-1.84); I ² = 66.02; N = 32]. The analysis yielded a pooled estimate of 78.4% (95% CI = 74.8-82). The meta-regression showed similar prevalence over the years (Coefficient: 0.001; P-value: 0.762). Conclusions: A high prevalence of MSD was noted among dental healthcare providers, with about seven out of ten having experienced MSD in the past. This emphasizes the need for awareness and adoption of appropriate ergonomic postures by dental healthcare providers from early in their careers to minimize work-related MSD.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Ergonomic Hazards Among Healthcare Workers in a Saudi Government Hospital

Background

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) affecting healthcare workers (HCWs) must be considered and addressed as a serious issue. Thus, it is important to incorporate ergonomics into clinical practice to prevent MSDs. The objectives of this study were to investigate HCWs’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding ergonomics in a large governmental healthcare facility.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in which the participants were interviewed to complete a validated four-section questionnaire (demographic data, knowledge, attitudes, and practice information related to ergonomics). The questionnaire was newly self-developed based on a literature review and was pilot tested after development.

Results

This study included 273 HCWs. Their average knowledge score regarding ergonomics was 2.6, or “fair to good.” Overall, the participants reported good attitude scores, with a total average score of 1 and 2, or “agree to strongly agree.” The findings also indicated that appropriate ergonomics practices were often not implemented, as the average practice score was 1 to 2, or “always to sometimes engaging in bad practice.” The risk factors of being Saudi, being a woman, and having low academic achievement were associated with poor knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to ergonomics among HCWs.

Conclusion

This study showed that the majority of the participants had fair knowledge and good attitudes toward ergonomics at work while practicing. However, the practice of ergonomics at work was not implemented. It is important to apply ergonomics at work to prevent MSDs; therefore, ergonomic principles should be included in the undergraduate health curriculum for all HCWs, with emphasis on practicing ergonomics in their routine clinical work.

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Sources of occupational stress amongst dentistry academics

BACKGROUND

Dentistry professionals may experience significantly higher occupational stress than other health professionals and dentistry academics may have specific work content and context sources of stress.

AIMS

The aim of this study is to identify common sources of occupational stress, and how these are associated with wellbeing, in dentistry academics.

MATERIALS & METHODS

A cross-sectional online survey with staff in Dentistry departments in Australia and New Zealand. Assessment included 23 items from five general domains of occupational stress from the NIOSH-Generic Job Stress Questionnaire, a 23-item list of sources of stress and the 22-item Psychological General Well-Being Index. Analyses used descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression.

RESULTS

A total of 107 respondents (average age 50 ± 11.7 years, 56.8% men) completed the survey. Leading sources of occupational stress were job future, time pressure at work, work overload, and administration demands. A multiple linear regression model significantly predicted wellbeing, F(8,77) = 13.141, p = .000, adj.R²  = .53, but there were no significant associations for any of the specific sources of stress.

CONCLUSION

The combination of time pressure, workload and responsibility, job dissatisfaction, low social support, and uncertain job future was inversely associated with wellbeing amongst these dentistry academics. Future studies should consider the development and evaluation of interventions to address these concerns.

Prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among dental professionals: A scoping review

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are highly prevalent among dental professionals. Studies examining the prevention of dental work-related MSDs have been completed globally. OBJECTIVE: To identify and evaluate the available evidence regarding MSD prevention in dental practice, and to identify knowledge gaps. METHODS: An electronic search was conducted across multiple scientific databases. Identified articles were assessed according to inclusion/exclusion criteria. Systematic reviews, interventions and published expert opinion were included. RESULTS: Five systematic reviews, 27 intervention studies and 21 expert opinion articles were included. There was overall consensus that use of ergonomic equipment is beneficial in MSD prevention. Knowledge gaps identified included: a lack of systematic reviews on the role of exercise and therapy in MSD prevention; a lack of high-quality intervention studies; a lack of research in general outside of ergonomic equipment use. Expert opinion articles have been published despite a lack of dental-specific research. CONCLUSIONS: Whilst more robust research is required, current evidence supports the use of optical enhancement, saddle chairs, and wide-diameter silicone-handled instruments in MSD prevention. Knowledge gaps were identified relating to the use of exercise, therapy, and education in the prevention of dental work-related MSDs. Further research is required, specifically high-quality intervention studies.

Analysis of occupational stress, burnout, and job satisfaction among dental practitioners

BACKGROUND: Dental practitioners can be prone to stress because of the long working hours, high patient expectations, and work environment. OBJECTIVE: To investigate dimensions of occupational stress among dental practitioners leading to burnout and to model its causality with job satisfaction. METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted for five months. A sample of 302 practicing dental practitioners was selected using the consecutive sample technique. This sample included dental practitioners working in clinical and non-clinical departments of public and private sector universities as well as those doing private general practice. A self-administered structured questionnaire based on the Work Stress Questionnaire was sent using Survey Monkey. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Spearman correlation was applied between stress scores and job satisfaction. A Chi-square test was applied to look into the association between stress levels and different categories. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed. RESULT: The prevalence of overall occupational stress was high among dental practitioners (83.4%). Occupational stress was greatest in females (55.8%), dental practitioners in the private sector (55.7%), and general dental practitioners (GDPs) (47%). The overall prevalence of job satisfaction among dental professionals was 30%. Occupational stress was significantly associated with burnout and job dissatisfaction in dentistry. Stress levels and working hours were statistically and positively associated, whereas the association between stress levels and job satisfaction was inversely and significantly associated. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of occupational stress among dental practitioners was high and the level of job satisfaction was moderate. The model between these variables was well-fitted.

The Most Important Risk Factors Affecting the Physical Health of Orthodontists: A Pilot Study

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the most frequent problems in the physical health of orthodontists and to determine which factors in the working environment of dental specialists have the most important influence on the physical health of orthodontic practitioners. This survey was conducted using a questionnaire that was distributed among orthodontists and dental specialists. The questionnaire consisted of 42 questions: 36 closed-ended questions with 1 or multiple possible answer choices, and 6 open-ended questions. The survey was carried out online and responses were collected anonymously. The study included 266 questionnaires completed by orthodontists and dental practitioners with a mean age of 34.5 ± 10.1 years. The results showed that 71% of orthodontists and 90% of dental practitioners experienced different types of pain during their workday and after work. The most common health problems among orthodontists were shoulder and neck pain. Orthodontists’ health status was better than dentists’. Usually, orthodontists experience shoulder and neck pain. The factors that helped orthodontists avoid health disorders were: the use of individually adjustable backrests and saddle-type chairs, assuming a neutral sitting position, keeping work equipment as close as possible, and breaks in between patients during work.

Risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders of dentists in Kuwait and the impact on health and economic status

BACKGROUND

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders have become a great health issue among dentists. However, it is never been examined among dentists in the State of Kuwait.

OBJECTIVES

The purposes of this study were to define the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) among dentists in the State of Kuwait, to identify risk factors for WMSD, and to explore relationships between WMSD and absenteeism/productivity.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional design was used in this study. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to dentists at government, private, and academic dental clinics.

RESULTS

A total of 186 questionnaires were returned (80% response rate). The results showed that 88 (47%) of responding dentists experienced WMSDs. Dentists self-reporting WMSD were older (36.4 (10.3) years vs. 32.6 (9.33); P = 0.01), in practice longer (11.7 (10.4) years vs. 8.2 (8.4); P = 0.013), and worked longer hours (34.9 (10.6) hours vs. 30.4 (11.5); P = 0.08) than dentists not reporting WMSD. A significant association was found between rating of pain and lost days from work (x2 (10, n = 85) = 20.96, ρ = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

Dentists' occupational procedures expose their bodies to prolonged and awkward postures, thereby subjecting the dentists to unnatural forces and stresses on crucial movement and functioning joints. Cumulative exposures to such postures lead to WMSDs. Generally, WMSD has a considerable impact on the health and economic status of the individual, family, and workplace. WMSD increases absenteeism and reduces productivity.

A standardized protocol for the comprehensive assessment of dental hygiene work

BACKGROUND

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent in dental hygienists. Although engineering controls and ergonomic training is available, it is unclear why this intransigent problem continues. One possible barrier is that a comprehensive, standardized protocol for evaluating dental hygiene work does not exist.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to generate a valid and reliable observational protocol for the assessment of dental hygiene work.

METHODS

An iterative process was used to establish and refine an ecologically valid video acquisition and observation protocol to assess key activities, tasks, and performance components of dental hygiene work.

RESULTS

Good inter-rater reliability was achieved across all variables when the final coding scheme was completed by three independent raters.

CONCLUSIONS

This work provides an exemplar of the process required to generate a comprehensive protocol for evaluating the work components of a particular job, and provides standardized nomenclature for use by scientists and practitioners interested in understanding and addressing the pervasive issue of work-related disorders in dental hygienists.

Nordic Assessment of Occupational Disorders among Dental Students and Dentists in Saudi Arabia

Objectives

Ergonomics and the avoidance of occupational or work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are crucial for a future dentist's career, as studies have linked WRMSDs to some serious complications, including early retirement. This study aimed to investigate the level of knowledge and awareness about ergonomics and the prevalence of WRMSDs among dental students and dentists in Makkah province, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted of 322 dental students and dentists from two universities in Makkah province, Saudi Arabia, using a self-report questionnaire to measure ergonomic awareness and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to measure WRMSDs.

Results

Among the respondents, only 4.82% could correctly explain ergonomics, 14.16% had attended a course or workshop on ergonomics, 55.12% were familiar with preventive techniques for WRMSDs, and 37.95% were familiar with remedies/treatment for WRMSDs. Females were significantly more aware of WRMSDs than males. There was 81.33% who had trouble (pain, aches, or discomfort) in one or more parts of their body during the previous 12 months. The most common sites for WRMSDs were the upper back (48.19%), wrists/hands (44.27%), lower back (43.98%), neck (36.45%), and shoulder (33.43%). In most body parts, WRMSDs were more common among males and participants from a governmental university than among females or those from a private university.

Conclusion

Both dental students and dentists in Saudi Arabia lacked awareness of ergonomics and experienced high levels of WRMSDs. More educational efforts and attempts are needed to boost dental professionals' knowledge about musculoskeletal disorders related to dental profession and built the skills to cope with them.

Organizational types in relation to exposure at work and sickness - a repeated cross-sectional study within public dentistry

Objective: Organizations and state agencies that provide dental care continuously face various and novel demands related to the need for dental care. However, rearrangements of work tasks by reducing the number of tasks performed by dental personnel might make the work more monotonous, repetitive, and static within an organization. The aim of this study is to compare how two dental work organizations, with different staffing and clinic size, are perceived by dental personnel focusing on physical and psychosocial conditions, leadership, work ability and presenteeism in 2012 and 2014.Material and Methods: This repeated cross-sectional study included personnel from the Public Dental Service in Sweden. There were 282 dentists, dental hygienists, and dental nurses who answered a questionnaire 2012 and 299 in 2014.Results and conclusion: In 2012, nine per cent of medium clinics reported poor leadership compared with 27% in 2014. For large clinics, 17% perceived poor leadership in 2012 compared with 31% in 2014. A higher proportion of the employees reported presenteeism due to high physical load (43%) and high psychosocial load (21%) in 2014 compared with 31% and 13% in 2012. These results indicate the need for work place interventions promoting health among dental employees.

Work ability and productivity among dentists: associations with musculoskeletal pain, stress, and sleep

Purpose

Work ability can be measured by the work ability index (WAI), and work-related questions measuring productivity loss in terms of quality and quantity of work. Dentists have high occupational risk of musculoskeletal pain and the exposure of ergonomic strain is already high during dental education. The aim was to evaluate work ability and productivity among dentists, and to identify gender differences and associations with sleep, stress, and reported frequent pain.

Methods

The study population comprised 187 dentists (123 women and 64 men) who had been working as dentists between 5 and 12 years. Participants completed a questionnaire regarding sleep, stress, presence of pain at different sites, work ability assessed by WAI, and productivity in terms of quality and quantity of work.

Results

Poor sleep quality and high level of stress were reported by 31% and 48.1% of participants, respectively, with no gender differences and no association with age. The prevalence of frequent pain ranged 6.4–46.5% with shoulders being the most prevalent site. Thirty-three percent reported reduced work ability. Poor sleep, high amount of stress, and multi-site pain were associated with decreased work ability.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of pain was shown among dentists. Decreased work ability in terms of productivity loss was associated with poor sleep quality, high amount of stress, and multi-site pain. Preventive actions at the workplace should promote good musculoskeletal health, and measures taken, both individual and organizational, to minimize the risk of high, persistent stress and work-related pain.

Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomic practice among dentists in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Background

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) is the second most common cause of disability. MSD due to the occupation are called work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) and are common among dentists.

Objective

Assess the prevalence of self-reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) and to identify associated ergonomic practice among dentists practicing in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

Dentists practicing in Jeddah were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study using a self-administered survey. The survey consisted of 20 close-ended questions. The survey included questions regarding demographics, dental practice, general health status, exercising, ergonomic practice, musculoskeletal pain location, the severity of pain using a numeric pain rating scale (0–10), interventions sought, and missed work due to WMSD.

Results

A sample of 234 dentists participated in this study. Prevalence of WMSD was found to be 70%. The most common location for WMSD pain was in the low back (85%) and neck (84.6%). Female dentists and dentists not exercising regularly had an increased risk of WMSD. The prevalence of CTS was 9%, and its risk increased with age and practicing in the private sector. Among the dental specialties, the least to report WMSD or CTS were maxillofacial surgeons and orthodontists. The reported ergonomic practice reached as low as 24%.

Conclusion

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders and inadequate ergonomic practices were common. Ergonomics training intervention programs targeting dentists is suggested as a preventive measure for longer and healthier career lives.

Prevalence and occupational risk factors of musculoskeletal diseases and pain among dental professionals in Western countries: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis

Background

This review aimed at examining the prevalence of musculoskeletal diseases and pain among dental professionals in Western countries. Furthermore, possible occupational risk factors were analyzed.

Methods

The literature search was conducted from June to July 2016, with an update in December 2017 using the databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, LIVIVO, Science Direct, PubMed, and Web of Science. The quality assessment was performed with a standardized instrument consisting of 10 items. A meta-analysis was carried out to compute pooled prevalence rates for musculoskeletal diseases and pain.

Results

A total of 41 studies were included in this review; 30 studies met the criteria for the meta-analysis. Prevalence rates of musculoskeletal diseases and pain among dental professionals ranged from 10.8% to 97.9%. The neck was the body region affected most often (58.5%, 95% CI = 46.0–71.0) followed by the lower back (56.4%, 95% CI = 46.1–66.8), the shoulder (43.1%, 95% CI = 30.7–55.5) and the upper back (41.1%, 95% CI = 32.3–49.9). Potential occupational risk factors included an awkward working posture, high number of treated patients, administrative work, vibration, and repetition.

Conclusions

Musculoskeletal diseases and pain are a significant health burden for dental professionals. This study showed high prevalence rates for several body regions. Therefore, suitable interventions for preventing musculoskeletal diseases and pain among dental professionals are needed.

The prevalence of occupational health-related problems in dentistry: A review of the literature

The study was conducted to report on the scope and prevalence of occupational health related-problems experienced by dentists, dental therapists, and oral hygienists in their practice of dentistry.

BACKGROUND

Professional practice and dental training have many risk factors, and the dental team should be able to recognize these factors to protect themselves. The prevalence of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, stress, percutaneous injuries, ears, and eyes are of concern. The dental team should also not forget hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV as risks in practice. Dental practitioners should protect themselves by self-recognizing risk factors and by maintaining proper working conditions.

METHODS

The study targeted all empirical research, case studies, and systematic literature reviews written in English. All articles selected were subjected to a data analysis process. Data were captured on an Excel spreadsheet and reported in a comprehensive table.

RESULTS

The literature addressing occupational health among dental practitioners included mainly cross-sectional studies and review papers (2001-2016). Forty-nine studies were included in the review. Musculoskeletal disorders remain the most researched occupational health-related problems in dentistry. Eye protection compliance was low among practitioners. Percutaneous injuries especially among young dentists and students were still a concern.

CONCLUSION

Occupational health-related problems are still prevalent in current dentistry practice, despite changes in equipment and surgery design. The reported prevalence of occupational related-health problems and other findings of investigative studies highlight the need for continuous professional education and a need to improve clinical practice aspects of dentistry curricula.

Changes in division of labour and tasks within public dentistry: relationship to employees work demands, health and work ability

OBJECTIVE

By 2023, fewer dentists are expected in Sweden, at the same time as the demand for dental care is expected to increase. Older people, in particular, are expected to require more dental health than previous generations. To meet this demand, the public sector dentistry in Sweden is moving towards changes in division of labour among dental professionals, including dentists, dental hygienists and dental nurses. However, the impact of this reallocation on the physical and psychosocial wellbeing of employees is unknown. The aim of this study was to compare workplaces with an equal or larger proportion of dental hygienists than dentists (HDH) with workplaces with a larger proportion of dentists than dental hygienists (HD) on the physical and psychosocial work load, musculoskeletal and psychosomatic disorders and sickness presence.

MATERIAL

A total of 298 persons employed in the Public Dental Service in a Swedish County Council participated in this study.

CONCLUSION

The medium large clinics HDH reported 85% of employee's with considerably more high psychosocial demands compared to employees in medium HD (53%) and large HD (57%). Employees in medium large clinics HDH also reported sleep problems due to work (25%) compared with employees in medium large clinics HD (6%), large clinics HD (11%) and small clinics HDH (3%). Clinic size does not seem to influence the outcome of the HD and HD clinics to any great extent. Of all employees, about 94-100% reported high precision demands and 78-91% poor work postures.

Prevalence of musculoskeletal pain of the neck, upper extremities and lower back among dental practitioners working in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Studies have shown that dentists have a higher incidence of work-related musculoskeletal (MSK) pain than those in other occupations. The risk factors contributing to MSK pain among Saudi dentists has not been fully studied so this study aims to estimate the prevalence of MSK pain and investigate its associated risk factors among dentists in Saudi Arabia.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

A cross-sectional survey was carried out in the capital city Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, using random cluster sampling. 224 surveys were distributed among dentists with a 91.1% response rate (101 women and 103 men).

OUTCOMES

The prevalence of MSK pain and its associated risk factors were investigated.

RESULTS

184 (90.2%) respondents reported having MSK pain. Lower back pain was the most commonly reported MSK pain (68.1%). Gender and age were reported to be predictors for at least one type of MSK pain. Older age was associated with lower back pain (OR 1.23; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.50) and women had double the risk of shoulder pain (OR 2.52; 95% CI 1.12 to 5.68). In addition, lower back pain was related to the time the dentist spent with patients (OR 0.28; 95% CI 0.14 to 0.54), while shoulder pain (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.06) and lower back pain (OR 1.06; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.10) were significantly related to years of experience.

CONCLUSIONS

MSK pain is common among older and female Saudi dentists. Research on the impact of exercise and the ergonomics of the workplace on the intensity of MSK pain and the timing of its onset is required.

Musculoskeletal Disorders and Working Posture among Dental and Oral Health Students

The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in the dental professions has been well established, and can have detrimental effects on the industry, including lower productivity and early retirement. There is increasing evidence that these problems commence during undergraduate training; however, there are still very few studies that investigate the prevalence of MSD or postural risk in these student groups. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of MSD and conduct postural assessments of students studying oral health and dentistry. A previously validated self-reporting questionnaire measuring MSD prevalence, derived from the Standardised Nordic Questionnaire, was distributed to students. Posture assessments were also conducted using a validated Posture Assessment Instrument. MSD was highly prevalent in all student groups, with 85% reporting MSD in at least one body region. The neck and lower back were the most commonly reported. The final year dental students had the highest percentage with poor posture (68%), while the majority of students from other cohorts had acceptable posture. This study supports the increasing evidence that MSD could be developing in students, before the beginning of a professional career. The prevalence of poor posture further highlights the need to place further emphasis on ergonomic education.