Instruction on Holding the Hand Tools?

[brobding]

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I recently damaged my right thumb in two mountain biking accidents. Nothing major, but I do notice that when I write a lot my thumb joint near the top knuckle hurts. I also have a history of gripping my pens way to tight.

My question is, does Dschool instruct you to hold the tools similar to pen or is there a more ergonomic approach or do they just focus mostly on the business end of the tool, not necessarily how you hold it? Lastly, can you hold the tools lightly and still get the job done?

Thanks

 

[DropShot 2014]

I am a DS1 and havent gotten to use a handpiece yet, but we have been using the perio probe, explorers, scalers etc. and we were taught to use a "modified pen grasp" for all of these instruments. It is different from how most people hold a pen however. Most people have the tendency to hold instruments too tightly when they are beginning so will not be alone in this. Thumb position is important in maximizing the control you have over the instrument, but they will teach you all this so i wouldnt sweat it too much!

 

[brobding]

Thanks!
My concern is whether or not my thumb/hand can take a career of abuse. I am going to go to physical therapist and see if they give me some exercises.

If I keep my thumb straight when I write it doesn't hurt as much. However, I imagine you are instructed to hold the tools with your thumb at nearly 90 degrees with your index and middle fingers slightly bent?

I hope to get accepted to Dschool this cycle but am worried about whether or not my hand can take the abuse.

Again, thanks for your help.

 

[tinman831]

Thanks!
My concern is whether or not my thumb/hand can take a career of abuse. I am going to go to physical therapist and see if they give me some exercises.

If I keep my thumb straight when I write it doesn't hurt as much. However, I imagine you are instructed to hold the tools with your thumb at nearly 90 degrees with your index and middle fingers slightly bent?

I hope to get accepted to Dschool this cycle but am worried about whether or not my hand can take the abuse.

Again, thanks for your help.

Dentistry will take it's toll on you whether you are healthy or not. I've just finished dental school and I can feel the aches and pains some days. A couple of sports injuries really had me worried since I could barely turn my shoulder but about 4 months of recovery and I'm okay so far (knock on wood).

I'm sure you can learn to manage despite your injuries. There are ways around almost everything. A friend of mine knows someone with a partially missing finger so it's doable. Don't let it discourage you from your dream.