Introduction: Dental ergonomics aim to improve the safety and efficiency of dentists, reducing possible occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Factors affecting dental ergonomics include gender, tooth position, and use of equipment such as magnifying loupes. Since work habits are acquired early during undergraduate dental training, it is essential to assess the ergonomics of students at the preclinical training level.
Objectives: The present study aimed to assess the ergonomics of preclinical dental students in different clinical settings and their correlation to potential MSDs.
Methods: Student posture was assessed during preclinical restorative training using the Dental Ergonomics Assessment rubrics visual scale. The variables tested were use of magnification, gender, and tooth position. Musculoskeletal (MS) pain was reported using a questionnaire. Results were analyzed statistically using Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon t-test (P < 0.05). Spearman test was used to determine the correlation between posture and pain.
Results: Use of magnification and tooth position significantly affected student posture. Female students had worse posture in certain clinical situations. Reported MS pain positively correlated with poor posture.
Conclusion: The use of magnifying loupes could have a positive impact on the ergonomics of dental students during their preclinical training, possibly decreasing the risk of developing MSDs.
Keywords: dental students; ergonomics; loupes; magnification; musculoskeletal disorders; posture.
© 2020 American Dental Education Association.