Figure 1. Flowchart showing how prolonged, static postures (PSPs) can progress to pain or a cumulative trauma disorder (CTD). INTRODUCTION According to a.

Figure 1. Ask patients to scoot to the end of the headrest, then position with dental ergonomic cushions to properly support the spinal.

My previous articles on dental ergonomics published in Dentistry Today (September 2008, April 2009, and July 2009; these can be viewed at dentistrytoday.com).

When we think of ergonomics, we often think of the equipment we wear, hold, or sit upon. However, the equipment that surrounds us.

Visualizing the oral cavity has always posed a challenge in dentistry. From early fiber optic lights mounted on hand­pieces to today’s sophisticated procedure.

Historically, the importance of the dental operator stool has taken a backseat to the patient chair. Fortunately, this mindset is changing as new.

The fully seated dental operating position combined with the air turbine handpiece ushered in what has been known as the golden age of.

It has been well documented that back and neck problems are common among dentists.1 Periods of intense focus in prolonged static postural position.

Concepts of dental operator seating have changed greatly since seated, 4-handed dentistry was first embraced by the profession in the 1960s. Early designs.

In the first part of this two-part series, the growing problem of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and repetitive strain injuries in dental practitioners was.