Here are the main occupational health risks associated with working as a Dental Professional, with prevention advice.
Dental procedures generate aerosols containing blood, saliva and bacteria, creating serious infection transmission risks including hepatitis and other blood-borne pathogens.
Working in confined oral cavities with sustained static postures causes extremely high rates of neck, shoulder and back disorders in dental professionals — career-ending in many cases.
Managing anxious patients, clinical perfectionism, high patient volume and business pressures create significant stress and burnout in dental teams.
High-pitched drill noise and sustained exposure to dental equipment sounds cause hearing damage and tinnitus in dental professionals over time.
Dental amalgam, disinfectants, bonding agents and impression materials expose dental workers to mercury vapour and sensitising chemicals requiring careful handling.