Analysis and prevention of ergonomic risk factors among dental students

Abstract

Introduction Dentistry is a high‐risk profession for the development of work‐related disorders. Dental students are also exposed to several risk factors. The goal of the study was to determine and localise musculoskeletal pain during dental work, afterwards to measure electromyography signals from the muscles groups mostly affected by the musculoskeletal pain. Study was done in order to provide possible suggestions for the most effective preventive measures of MS pain among dental students. Materials and Methods In order to solve the objectives, the research was realised in two segments. In the first part of the study, specially designed questionnaires were used to determine the frequency of musculoskeletal pain, risk factors and preventive measures among students. The second part of the study included electromyography analyses of muscular activity of students during dental work. Inclinometers also were set up in the purpose of monitoring inclination of the spine. Results Results of the questionnaire study indicated that pain during work was frequent, 81.8% of all the subjects reported pain during work. The recorded muscle activity of the neck muscles indicated a high ergonomic risk, while the muscle activity of the shoulders and back muscles indicated a medium risk. Work with a back flexion of 20 degrees and more indicates that students are at risk. Conclusion Dental students used to work in unnatural working position. High ergonomic risk occurred in neck muscles. Students should be aware of the potential risks during work and to learn how to prevent it. Regular physical activity is strongly suggested to the students in order to avoid ergonomic problems.

Ergonomic Risk Assessment of Dental Students—RULA Applied to Objective Kinematic Data

“…By using a validated posture assessment instrument, “Branson’s dental operator posture assessment instrument” (PAI), researchers found a strong prevalence of postural problems among dental students [ 12 ]. In 2020, a study analyzed the students’ muscle activity during dental work using electromyography and recorded the spinal tilt via an inclinometer; this revealed a high ergonomic risk during dental work due to back flexion of more than 20 degrees and unfavorable muscle activity of the neck muscles [ 33 ]. Furthermore, by using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), a study of dental students found that they were required to maintain a posture that can lead to muscle fatigue and pain [ 8 ].…”

Occupational stress among dental professionals

“…Stress affected dentist at the beginning of their career, even during their studies 47,48,49 . Increased workload, time constraints and some aspects of clinical training, were identified as the main stressors among dental students 50,51 .…”

“…It has been observed that even during the study of dentistry, students are exposed to the stress and consequences it causes [47][48][49][50][51][52][53][54][55] . A study conducted by Dunalp and Stewart indicates that 38% of the surveyed dentists feel constant worry and anxiety 56 .…”

Satisfaction Factors with a Dental Unit Chair System in South Korea: A Dentist’s Perspective

“…The dentist’s chair may affect the dentist’s musculoskeletal health [ 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 ]. The backrest angle and shape should be suited for the dentists’ health and comfort, and the design should not burden the human body, especially with the dentist’s long-term use [ 29 , 30 , 31 ]. Additionally, smooth chair movement is required in the process of treatment, considering durability and noise.…”

“…The dental unit chair causes eye fatigue due to light [ 8 , 9 ]; should feature an appropriate size and angle of the patient seat [ 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 ], and the appropriate usability of the foot controller [ 14 , 15 ]; the water fountain and cuspidor should be convenient [ 16 , 17 ]; and there should be harmony between the monitor and the overall treatment system [ 21 , 22 ], as well as size and stability of bracket table and controller [ 23 , 24 ]. It is selected by various factors, including the overall design [ 29 , 30 , 31 ]. However, it is difficult for dentists to choose a suitable dental unit chair, considering all factors.…”