Multidisciplinary perspectives to prevent occupational health-related conditions among dental practitioners

Rajeshree Moodley,J Van Wyk

doi:10.1038/s41405-019-0010-3

Abstract

IntroductionThe prevalence of occupational health conditions is high among dental practitioners and this study investigated the role which occupational health plays in dental training.Purpose/objectivesThis study was conducted to explore occupational health and to determine the topics to include from an occupational health perspective into the dental curriculum.MethodsA descriptive qualitative study was conducted to explore the perceptions of dental practitioners, dental academics, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, occupational health specialists, ergonomists, optometrists and audiologists about dental training from an occupational health perspective in KwaZulu- Natal, South Africa. The interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approach was used in this study.ResultsThree main themes became evident that hinged on varying understanding of occupational health-related conditions to dental practice, how practitioners experience practising in the resource-poor settings and its impact on the dental practice. There was also a lack of awareness of the occupational health policies and practices, which could inform safe dental practice.ConclusionDental academics should gain input from a multidisciplinary team. An occupational health course with a student-centred approach would enrich the dental curriculum and make dental practitioners more aware of occupational health issues.

Highlights

The prevalence of occupational health conditions is high among dental practitioners and this study investigated the role which occupational health plays in dental training
The number of dental practitioners in South Africa (SA) is 12,904, which consists of 9541 dentists, 1094 dental therapists and 2269 oral hygienists serving a population of 55.91 million people.[1]
A previous study on dental practitioners in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa reported on ergonomic factors that impacted on practitioners’ health that included musculoskeletal disorders, carpal tunnel syndrome and other overuse disorders.[3]

Summary

INTRODUCTION

The number of dental practitioners in South Africa (SA) is 12,904, which consists of 9541 dentists, 1094 dental therapists and 2269 oral hygienists serving a population of 55.91 million people.[1]. 2001 suggested that health and safety stakeholder participants who were unable to attend the discusprinciples be incorporated into student training relating to the sions of their particular focus group and the data were added to needs of the profession.[10] that collected from the group This phase of the study was part of a larger study that they progress in academic years is stress, which impacts on students’ and dental practitioners’ well-being. The transcripts were sent to a participant in each management decisions and the non-response by management to the needs of students were issues with fourth and fifth year students (40 and 50%).[7] The research displays that there is a need focus group for member checking or respondent validation This was conducted to establish rigour and validity.[14] The data were thematically analysed.

RESEARCH METHODS

LIMITATIONS

Findings

CONCLUSION