Back Pain and Dentistry

[clownsaroundme]

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Greetings,

Is it true that a career in dentistry is guaranteed back pain? The basis for this is that one must exert torque on the lumbar and neck region (as well as other parts of the vertebra im sure) in order to gain a direct line-of-sight to the oral cavity.

Obviously certain specialities, such as endodontists, can do most of their work through a microscope and the great thing about that is that microscopes allow for neutral positioning of the vertebral column and zero-to-minimal torque exertion. HOWEVER, as well all know, the majority of people that enter the dental field are not endodontists...There are also little tricks, like working through a mirror, to eliminate SOME of the torque exertion by allowing you to stand a bit more neutral...however even this possess torque exertion and after awhile could be damaging I think. Plus the factor of loupes...Yes they make lightweight ones but anything added weight wise onto your already bent neck has to be a recipe for disaster?

A dentist I shadow has an extremely hunched-over back and says that most dentists that have been in the field for 10-20+ years tend to get like that. backpain is inevitable he says.

I worry about this because I have had a few minor back problems as a youth and worry that I am dooming myself if I continue to pursue my dreams...

Any insight guys?

 

[djeffreyt]

Greetings,

Is it true that a career in dentistry is guaranteed back pain?

Just as I cannot guarantee that a root canal treatment will be 100% successful on every patient, I cannot guarantee anyone will have back and neck pain from doing dentistry. There seem to be several dentists I know without any problems.

On the other hand, for every dentist I know who doesn't have any back problems, I know at least 20 who do have some degree of back and neck problems. If you are prone to it, then you'll likely have worse issues. If you were a contortionist prior to dental school, you'll probably be ok.

 

[dchoi]

I agree with the the person above. Also, every dentist told me to work on correct posture from day 1... Good habits!

 

[clownsaroundme]

20:1 is always a nice ratio...thanks lol :/

 

[clownsaroundme]

I agree with the the person above. Also, every dentist told me to work on correct posture from day 1... Good habits!

It's not about correct posture vs incorrect posture...it is about what needs to be done in order to be able to provide correct dental techniques to a patient...for a typical dentist, torque exertion is inevitable.

Here is a link to a guy named Dr Carter who wrote an article about this issue:

http://www.dentistryiq.com/articles.../the-inevitability-of-neck-and-back-pain.html

There is math explained, involving actual calculation of torque (in ft/lbs / newtonmeters). Let me know what you guys think and thank you all that have replied

 

[chrispyy]

There are a lot of techniques that you should learn to have proper positioning and if done right there will be no strain on the back. Also you can buy loupes that will also help you in seeing better instead of leaning in all the time

 

[UCSFx2017]

It does exist along with career-ending carpel tunnel syndrome. Usually these things can be prevented with proper posture and ergonomic tools and seating.