IADR Abstract Archives
Occupational hazards among Tunisian orthodontists
Objectives: Orthodontists are at high risk to develop a number of occupational hazards. Stained posture, restricted space and close contact with patients could affect orthodontist health. This study aimed to determine the pathologies threatening the orthodontist and to highlight the factors that influence the occurrence of such diseases.
Methods: A survey was carried out among 52 Tunisian orthodontists working on the public institute and private clinics. Data was collected using two softwares SPSS and Statview.
Tables and histograms were drawn with Microsoft Excel.
Results: The most prevalent musculoskeletal problems reported were neck pain (59.6%) followed by back ache (55.7%) and low back ache (48%). About 45% of the participating orthodontists reported eye problems. However, we noted that dealing with patients was the first cause of stress.
A statistically significant correlation was found between gender and musculoskeletal disorders (p=0.01) as male were concerned less than female orthodontists. There were statistically significant relations between back pain and sport practice (p=0.01), in fact, a lower percentage of back pain was noted on orthodontist having sports activities.
Conclusions: This study evidenced some points susceptible to reduce occupational risks such us leisure, sports and adequate sleep. In addition, ergonomic work and the use of some means of prevention can considerably reduce these risks.
Methods: A survey was carried out among 52 Tunisian orthodontists working on the public institute and private clinics. Data was collected using two softwares SPSS and Statview.
Tables and histograms were drawn with Microsoft Excel.
Results: The most prevalent musculoskeletal problems reported were neck pain (59.6%) followed by back ache (55.7%) and low back ache (48%). About 45% of the participating orthodontists reported eye problems. However, we noted that dealing with patients was the first cause of stress.
A statistically significant correlation was found between gender and musculoskeletal disorders (p=0.01) as male were concerned less than female orthodontists. There were statistically significant relations between back pain and sport practice (p=0.01), in fact, a lower percentage of back pain was noted on orthodontist having sports activities.
Conclusions: This study evidenced some points susceptible to reduce occupational risks such us leisure, sports and adequate sleep. In addition, ergonomic work and the use of some means of prevention can considerably reduce these risks.