See the chapter on Occupational Medicine in this best selling book- First Indian Multi-authored -Peer reviewed Oral Medicine book having Indian Data. published by Jaypee Publishers , New Delhi.Careless Dental Practice is Dangerous
All occupations have risks associated with them. Dentistry is a health care profession which involves close proximity to patient oral cavity, bending and holding neck in awkward positions while viewing the upper teeth or palate,use of lasers (eyes) , use of mercury , use of an dental x ray unit without lead barrier, Not fulfilling the patients expectations(consumer protection problems), improper care of patients general health.
Infectious Diseases- Walk in patients in a dental clinic would be infected with TB, HIV , Hepatitis (all kinds) B variety is most worrisome. Using quality surgical masks, gloves and head cover specially for women reduces the risk of infection to acceptable levels . Use of 0-1-6 Hep-B vaccination schedule for dental students and 0-1-2-12 vaccination schedule for surgeons is mandatory with booster dose every 5 years.
Postural Problems - The faulty posture and the excessive patient load usually results in the cervical spondylosis, low back pain, tenderness in the knee joint, and the ankle joint due to the long times of standing in clinic. this is alleviated by the sit down dentistry, four handed dentistry and using proper erect posture.
Radiation Hygiene - Use of x ray machines in small un-planned clinic with no lead barriers can lead to dangerous levels of radiation exposure which may not cause somatic changes but the damage to sperm production and ovum is definitely a problem.
Mercury Poisoning - The silver amalgam filling still remains the choice for dental fillings, most clinics in district places and rural areas use hand squeezing methods for mulling the mercury. the excess may drop off on the floor and the fumes cause a lot inhalation risk. Hg has deleterious effect on nervous system and the kidney apart from being toxic generally .Silver amalgam fillings are safe for the patients as per contemporary references.
Stress is more in health care- Long years of training, lower than expected remunerations ,interpersonal problems with patients and colleagues makes personal life hell !! This may lead to Professional burnout and alcohol and tobacco abuse .
Consumer Protection Act - Any misunderstanding with patient regarding the treatment expectations and lack of proper dental treatment delivery will result in the patient wanting his money back or worse will drag u into the consumer court.
Dentist head not cvrd posture -http://www.flickr.com/photos/emrank/3657991589/sizes/s/in/photostream/
