Musculoskeletal disorders among dentists in the Greater Athens area, Greece: Risk factors and correlations

Aim: To quantify the magnitude of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in dentists working in the Greater Athens area in relation with personal characteristics, work and psychological risk factors. Methods Using cross-sectional methodology and by means of a self-administered questionnaire, 80 dentists provided information on personal characteristics, employment history, use of specific dental instruments, working and personal habits, perception of the job's physical and psycho-social demands, general health status, need for recovery at the end of a regular working day, the affected body region and the MSDs frequency. Results: A total of 83 % dentists reported at least one MSD (past year), 54 and 70%reportedmonotonous/repetitive movements and strenuous back postures, respectively, while 38 % sought medical help for MSDs of the cervical/shoulder and back region. Direct vision in the oral cavity was significantly related with a higher frequency of chronic pain in the cervical region (odds ratio, OR=6.8). Absence of a dental assistant and use of manually handled endodontic instruments were significantly related with a higher prevalence of hand senso-neural disorders (OR=3 and 3.4 respectively). Passive free-time activities were significantly related with a higher prevalence of MSDs in the shoulder region (OR=4.16). Smokers had significantly higher need for recovery at the end of a working day compared to non-smokers (OR=2.6). Conclusions Dentists could prevent or alleviate MSDs, by adopting appropriate work practices and by modifying personal habits. Education in dental ergonomics and correct working postures is of paramount importance and should preferably be introduced during undergraduate dental practice. © Springer-Verlag 2012.