Affiliations: Discipline of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, The
University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
Note: [] Corresponding author: Lisa Sakzewski, Clinic 1 – Orthodontics;School of Dentistry, The University of Queensland, 200 Turbot Street,Brisbane 4000 QLD, Australia. Tel.: +61 7 33658084; Fax: +61 7 33658199; E-mail: lsakzewski@yahoo.com
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD's) are on
the rise worldwide. These disorders have numerous repercussions, from serious
ill-health effects at the individual level to decreased workplace efficiency
and productivity affecting not only quality of life but the economy. OBJECTIVE: This review aims to provide an overview of WMSD's in the
dental profession, more specifically, among general dental practitioners and
specialist orthodontists. METHODS: Literature was hand searched from Pubmed with greater
emphasis on contemporary literature as the professionals demands have evolved
over the years. RESULTS: While there have been numerous papers published relating to
the prevalence of ergonomic problems among general dentists, orthodontists have
received little investigation. CONCLUSION: This review highlights the need for research into the
risk factors of WMSD's in the dental profession (both general dentistry and
orthodontics), as this would provide a more direct approach for prevention
which is essential as professionals work for longer years in practice.
