Occupational Health Hazards in Current Dental Profession- A Review

Abstract

Dentists, as well as other dental personnel are constantly exposed to a number of specific occupational hazards. These cause the appearance of various ailments, specific to the profession, which develop and intensify with years. In many cases they result in diseases and disease complexes, some of which are regarded as occupational illnesses. Relying on relevant literature, the present paper discusses occupational hazards like stressful situations, latex hypersensitivity, allergic reactions due to various dental materials, exposure to radiation (ionizing and non-ionizing), percutaneous exposure incidents (PEI), hazard due to nitrous oxide gas, as well as factors leading to the musculoskeletal system diseases and diseases of the peripheral nervous system. Awareness regarding these occupational hazards and implementation of preventive strategies can provide a safe working environment for all the dental personnel. There is also a need for continuing dental education programs in dentistry so that dentists can update themselves with the latest and newer techniques and materials.

Wrong postural hygiene and ergonomics in dental students of the University of Valencia (Spain) (part I)

“…In relation to the dental profession, educational strategies are needed to promote the adoption of preventive measures and create a safer working environment …”

“…1 In relation to the dental profession, educational strategies are needed to promote the adoption of preventive measures and create a safer working environment. 2 Valachi and Valachi 3 identified strategies to prevent the multifactorial problem of dental operators' developing MSDs, such as maintaining the lower curvature of the back to favour correct posture and lessen pressure on the vertebral discs and muscles; using magnification instruments with 20-degree flexion of the neck; and adequately adjusting the dentist chair at the start of treatment, resting the lumbar region against the back of the chair. Additional strategies include the avoidance of static postures, alternating between the sitting and the standing position in order not to excessively load the lower back region; shifting the position of the feet; avoiding twists and turns whilst working; and positioning of the patient at the correct height, as a common mistake amongst dental professionals is to position the patient too high.…”

Pneumoconiosis and respiratory problems in dental laboratory technicians: Analysis of 893 dental technicians

“…Dental staff is exposed to various physical, chemical and biological harmful conditions in the working environment [1,2]. Defining the working conditions and risks that are likely to be experienced is mandatory in order to take work-related preventive measures.…”

Relationship between radiological (X‐ray/HRCT), spirometric and clinical findings in dental technicians' pneumoconiosis

“…Some occupational diseases may be seen in dental technicians because of several physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic and psychosocial conditions in their workplaces . Occupational asthma, rheumatoid syndrome, chronic beryllium disease and pneumoconiosis can be mentioned among these diseases .…”