Seño, Genevieve I.

Dentistry 161
2013 - 10885

Ergonomics in Dentistry – Reflection paper

Knowing the proper placement of equipment, especially in the dental operatory area,
provides a great impact on how the dentist works and how the patient gets his/her
treatment.

The placement of the cabinet greatly depends if the dentist himself/herself has a dental
assistant to help around. If he/she is practicing two-handed dentistry, the cabinet should
be placed at an area near him/her so that he/she would be able to get the things needed
upon working on the patient. In the dentist’s part, less energy would be spent, as he/she
does not have to move around just to acquire the supplementary things needed for the
operation. Aside from that, it would also make the patient feel more at ease, as the
procedure would be done quicker. Most of the time, the cabinet is also placed in the 12 o’
clock position.

For the placement of the sink, it should be placed on the working side of the dentist. This
also makes it more convenient for both the working dentist, and the patient receiving the
treatment as it assures the patient that the dentist observes proper sanitation.

These factors that make up the structure of the dental operatory area prove to be just as
significant as any other rules established in the clinic. Following the guidelines for better
ergonomics in dentistry would provide a happier and healthier place for both patients and
dentists.