Proper ergonomics are critical to your long-term health and ability to practice. While this is true in all facets of veterinary medicine, it is particularly important in veterinary dentistry. Being able to safely practice and not be hindered by uncomfortable positions will improve patient care. It is well established that work related musculoskeletal conditions are a huge issue in human dentistry. Numerous studies have found that the vast majority of dentists and hygienists develop repetitive motion and posture related injuries.

These issues occur even though human dentists and hygienists are very well trained, have excellent equipment, and at least somewhat ergonomically designed workspaces. This is absolutely not the case in veterinary medicine. Veterinarians rarely invest in a proper physical plant, quality equipment, or even basic training. Unfortunately, to make veterinary dentistry as safe as possible, wholesale changes to the physical plant would be required. New tables, chairs, lights, and even dental machines would need to be purchased. Further, a commitment to training specialized in maintaining proper ergonomics during dental procedures would need to be completed, which does not currently exist.

However, there are some simple and inexpensive options that can go a long way. One of the best ways to improve ergonomics is magnification. loupes not only greatly reduce eye strain, but they also force you to sit up straight which is beneficial for your back and neck. Magnification also improves procedure quality and efficiency, the latter of which is of further ergonomic benefit. The best way to decrease hand and wrist strain and repetitive motion injuries is to use sharp instruments. This, like many other proper ergonomic investments, will also speed and improve dental procedures, which is good for staff as well as patients. Consider a new set of periodontal hand instruments and/or elevators, or getting your current equipment sharpened. Further. Saddle chairs are highly regarded as very beneficial for the back and neck. Finally, hands on training can have a side effect of improving ergonomics. Learning how to properly use equipment will go a long way to decreasing strain and stress. Further, it reduces the amount of time needed for dental therapy, again, which improves ergonomics.