What is ergonomics in dentistry?

Ergonomics in dentistry means preventing musculoskeletal problems by enabling the dentist to adopt a more natural and comfortable posture, achiev- ing patient-friendly treatment, improving treatment efficiency, and achieving treatment accuracy.

What is the chair called at the dentist?

A dental engine is a large chair-side appliance (often including the chair itself) for use in a dentist’s office.

What is the most common dental chair position for dental procedure?

Therefore, it is recommended that the chair back be positioned so it is elevated 10 to 15 degrees from the floor (use the preset control of the patient chair to set this angle) and left in that position throughout the treatment.

Why ergonomics is important in dental hygiene?

The goal of ergonomics is to prevent soft tissue injuries and MSDs caused by sudden or sustained exposure to force, vibration, repetitive motion, and awkward posture.

Why is posture important in dentistry?

A “good” posture provides the dentist more working energy, a reduced stress level, increased comfort, lack of pain and muscular tension and a lower risk for therapeutical errors.

Where should I sit as a dentist?

9 o’clock: In 9 o’clock position the dentist is exactly at the right angle to the patient. The working areas for this position are the facial surfaces of the maxillary and mandibular right posterior teeth, and the occlusal surface of mandibular right posterior teeth.

What are the dental chair positions?

Types of Chair Positions of Operator:

• 7 o’ clock position to the front of the patients head.
• 9 o’ clock position to the side of the patients head.
• 10 to 11 o’ clock, to the back of the patient’s head.
• 12 o’ clock position, directly behind the patient’s head.

How should a dental hygienist sit?

The seat height should be positioned low enough so you are able to rest the heels of your feet on the floor. Adjust the operator chair so that the hips are slightly higher than the knees and distribute weight evenly by placing both feet firmly flat on the floor. Do not sit on the edge of the chair.

Is a dentist chair hydraulic or pneumatic?

Hydraulic dental chairs are the most common dental chair models that you will find in the market. It makes use of pumps and valves that circulate the hydraulic liquid that operates the dental chair and its position.

How does a hydraulic dentist chair work?

When a button is pressed on the console, the solenoid valve is operated: it intercepts oil in the pump and sends it to the cylinder. The cylinder enables hydraulic energy to be turned into mechanical energy thus lifting the chair to the desired height. By pushing another button, the second valve opens.

How should a dental assistant sit in her chair?

Ideally, the assistants should be seated with their left hip at the patient’s left shoulder, and knees angled toward the patient’s head (Figure 10). Most patient chairs are tapered toward the head of the chair and facilitate this position.