Ergonomics

Prolonged, awkward postures are the greatest culprits for the demise of a dental professional's musculoskeletal health1. Sustained muscle contractions can cause painful muscle ischemia and the development of "tender spots," or trigger points in muscles2.

Did you know that nearly two thirds of dentists who retire early are forced to due to a musculoskeletal disorder? And that studies show the prevalence of work-related pain in dentistry today is roughly the same as it was in 1946?  

It’s no wonder that three out of four dentists and hygienists complain of neck pain. EMG studies show that the upper trapezius muscle is the most active muscle during the delivery of dental care, which can lead to the development of a painful condition called trapezius myalgia.

You’ve had a tough day in the operatory, the sun is out, your back is aching and the green is calling. What could be better than a game of golf to work the aches out? For some dentists, just about anything!

From loupes to stools and headrests, these ergonomic products are good for your body and your bottom line.

Clinicians everywhere know the value that loupes bring to their dental practice, but how do you know when it’s time to change your loupes?

When considering ergonomics, one does not often think of some rather important considerations.

Hu-Friedy IMS Infinity Series Cassettes feature an innovative hole pattern and rail design that are said to significantly increase exposure to instruments during reprocessing, creating an optimal environment for cleaning and sterilization.

Pelton & Crane, a member of KaVo Kerr Group, is presenting a mix of new products, an updated booth and an Ergonomics and Wellness Center at this week's Chicago Midwinter Meeting.

DentalEZ® Group has introduced the new DentalEZ® TruSim™ Clinical Practice Simulator.

Handcrafted in Charlotte, N.C., Pelton & Crane's Spirit 1700 dental chair reportedly combines innovative technology with quality components resulting in an easy-to-use, durable dental chair.

DenMat PeriOptix loupes and headlights reportedly feature a lightweight frame and headlight designs that support better ergonomics, resulting in less strain on the neck and an overall more comfortable working experience. 

Henry Schein’s ergonomically designed, medical-grade silicone-handled scalers and curettes reportedly provide a secure, comfortable grip, yet maintain excellent tactile sensitivity.

Warning: some football references are found sprinkled in this read! I will not bore you with play analogies for our profession or chant with a “there is no I in team” commentary. My intention is to provoke thought as you begin 2015. 

As a dental practitioner, your hands and body make up the life cycle of your career. When you are focused on your patients, however, that is not always easy to take into consideration. 

In this Product Double-Take,  DPR talks to Dr. Cynthia Schuler about her experiences with the ergonomic benefits and other perks of the DENTSPLY Caulk Aquasil Ultra Cordless tissue managing impression system - and how it has made her job that much easier.

In part two of Dental Product Report's three-part series on ergonomics, Betty Ladley Finkbeiner, CDA - Emeritus, BS, MS, provides tips on ergonomic concepts and motion economy to decrease stress and increase productivity. Check out Part 1 and Part 3  of the series for more insight into ergonomic practices and benefits.

In part one of Dental Product Report's three-part series on ergonomics, Kevin Henry, DPR Group Editorial Director, spoke with dental professionals to get their take on the importance of good ergonomic practices. Check out Part 2 and Part 3  of the series for more insight into ergonomic practices and benefits.

In part three of Dental Product Report's three-part series on ergonomics, Garrett Ludwig, president of Diversified Design Technologies, explains how ergonomics can increase a practice's efficiency and productivity-all while saving money. Check out Part 1 and Part 2 of the series for more insight into ergonomic practices and benefits.  

If you’re dealing with daily aches and pain during the work day, Timothy Caruso has some tips for you.

If you ask Erin Roberts, DDS, about her prior dental office she answers with a chuckle, insisting that it’s a distant memory that she tries to forget.

Why should you be concerned with the design of your office and the ergonomics of the clinical treatment rooms? Ergonomics is a great buzzword, but not many doctors are energized to take action. That’s too bad.

As dental professionals, spending your day working in a small oral cavity plays a major role in ergonomics, and how your body feels at the end of the day. The dental field offers three basic types of optical aids that will magnify your small workspace: procedure scopes, surgical operating microscopes and loupes.

Deb Byington, national sales manager at Brewer, says the nature of procedures dental clinicians perform on a daily basis puts them in a lot of awkward positions, which can take a toll on the body. Brewer Ergonomic Dental Seating aims to alleviate some of that bodily stress with its advanced ergonomic tools.

We’ve all heard the saying, “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.” Well, what you told us, among other things, in this year’s dental office design survey is that even if you think it is broke, you’re still not going to fix it any time in the near future.

As a dental professional, you likely experience some type of work-related pain, from numb fingers to a stiff neck. But you don’t have to practice in pain.

These ergonomic ultrasonic inserts from Dentsply Professional are designed to give you a better grip. 

From enhanced ergonomics to pleased patients, here are 5 reasons to consider the Spirit 3000 dental chair for your practice.

Dentronix, Inc., has introduced its new cordless curing light-the LED 3000 Orthodontic curing light-which boasts speedy cure times, a light-weight body and more for the efficiency-driven orthodontic practice.

Looking for a new polishing unit? Here are 4 reasons to consider Johnson-Promident's Deldent JetPolisher 2000.