Awareness of dental ergonomics amongst dental practitioners and post graduates in Chennai city- A cross sectional study

Abstract

Context: Clinical eminence is a result of enhanced quality and productivity. Dentistry is a heath field which is equipment stationed, and this makes Dental Practitioners susceptible to a lot of physical and cognitive stress which might ultimately reduce the spirit of daily clinical practice markedly. Considering poor ergonomics as one of the biggest occupational hazard for dentists, a discursive understanding of equipment ergonomics becomes critical to prevent and overcome work related musculoskeletal disorders and establish clinical longevity.
Aim: The aim of the study to assess the awareness of Dental Ergonomics among Dental Practitioners and Post graduates in Chennai city.
Materials and Methods: The cross sectional survey was conducted among 208 Dental Practitioners and post graduates in Chennai city by randomly circulating the questionnaire containing 39 multiple choice questions online and through handouts. All responses from the participants were collected, recorded, tabulated and scored. The data thus obtained was interpreted.
Results: The scoring of participants following assessment of ergonomics in daily practice revealed that only 20.2% of the study population was good whereas 68.3% of the participants were fair and 11.5% poor. 64.4% feel knowledge on ergonomic principles is insufficient among dentists and 87.5% want ergonomics to be a part of the dental curriculum.
Conclusion: The awareness of dental ergonomics is seemingly low among dental practitioners, the reason behind it not being bridged with its clinical application. Theoretical and practical inclusion of basic ergonomic principles need to be initiated at an early stage before improper postural habits develop and work related musculoskeletal disorders become a concern.
Keywords: Awareness, dental ergonomics, musculoskeletal disorders, occupational hazard.