Special Ergonomics Lecture Presented to Dental Students
On March 18, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine (GSDM) Clinical Assistant Professor Dr. Daniel Moran and Clinical Professor at Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Dr. Caren Jacobs teamed up to present a two-part Special Ergonomics Lecture. This lecture, targeted specifically at dental professionals, was well received by those in attendance.
Dr. Moran’s portion of the lecture titled, “The Effects of Dentistry on the Dentist,” provided an overview of what practicing does to the dentist’s body long-term and how to avoid physical burnout. His lecture was complemented by humorous slides to get across his points. This lecture was spearheaded by Dr. Moran after receiving support of his idea from both Dean Jeffrey W. Hutter and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Dr. Cataldo Leone. They were pleased to have a lecture focused on the health of the dentist and dental student in addition to GSDM’s main focus on patient health.
Dr. Moran addressed the most common long-term issues seen among dentists: musculoskeletal disorders, ear and eye injuries, and stress. While discussing causes and symptoms for each of these issues, Dr. Moran also included useful tips. He encouraged the students to take rest periods in between patients to stretch and stand, wear goggles that fit securely around the sides of eyes, blink often, take five minute eye breaks with eyes closed, and to wear loupes. An important tip presented on how to avoid emotional burnout over stress was to not set unrealistic goals regarding income or technical skill.
Following Dr. Moran’s presentation, Dr. Jacobs, with the help of her students, presented a lecture titled, “Ergonomics for Dentists.” Several ergonomic factors that effect dentists include: force, repetition, static posture, and mechanical, environmental and psychosocial stresses. Dr. Jacobs explained that the force of gripping a tool too tightly could be alleviated by purchasing larger diameter tools and those with hollow shafts or crosscut handles. The team provided a handout of stretches and even demonstrated some for the audience. As the lecture continued, nearly everyone in the auditorium was sitting up straighter in their chairs.
Dr. Moran spoke of his personal experience with some of these occupational issues. He hopes to continue to give this lecture and perhaps expand it in the future. Dr. Moran emphasized that, “Your body is your most important tool.” He explained to the audience that this lecture was, “not to alarm you but to concern you enough to pay attention to this issue in order to prevent it.”