The Hazards of Dental Hygiene

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses the ergonomic hazards in the dental hygiene profession, known as musculoskeletal disorders. The paper reveals that an estimated 75% of dental hygienists experience hand problems during the course of their careers. The paper examines some of the causes of musculoskeletal disorders and the use of certain strategies to reduce their incidence. The paper concludes that when dental hygienists are fully aware of work related injuries common in the dental office, they will be more likely to choose to practice ergonomic techniques that promote musculoskeletal health.

From the Paper:

"Musculoskeletal disorders are a significant work related problem that warrants attention because researchers estimate 75% of dental hygienists experience hand problems during the course of their careers. As many as 56% develop symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. The Bureau of Labor Statistics supports these findings too (Simmer-Beck, Bray, et al, 2006). Dental hygienists are also exposed to certain body positions that produce stress and pain (Nelson & Jevack, 2001). The end result may be cumulative trauma disorder (CTD) when the body becomes unable to heal itself from "the long-term effects of repetitive motion, exposure to vibration, and/or mechanical stress" (Kerschbaum, 1997, p. 162)."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Liskiewicz, T. and Kerschbaum, W. E. (1997). Cumulative trauma disorders: An ergonomic approach for prevention. Journal of Dental Hygiene, 71 (4), 162-168.
• Michalak-Turcotte, C. (2000). Controlling dental hygiene work-related musculoskeletal disorders: The ergonomic process. Journal of Dental Hygiene, 74 (1), 41-58.
• Nelson, J. O. and Jevack, J. E. (2001). Experiencing pain due to incorrect body positioning. Journal of Dental Hygiene, 75 (1), 90-129. Retrieved 15 February 2007 from Expanded Academic ASAP database.
• Syme, S. E., Fried, J. L. and Strassier, H. E. (1997). Enhanced visualization using magnification systems. Journal of Dental Hygiene, 71 (5), 202-207.
• Simmer-Beck, M., Bray, K. K., Branson, B., Glaros, A. and Weeks, J. (2006). Comparison of muscle activity associated with structural differences in dental hygiene mirrors. Journal of Dental Hygiene, 80 (1), 80-96. Retrieved 16 February 2007 from Academic One File database.

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