Dental clinicians are at high risk for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Up to 96% of dental hygienists report pain due to clinical work habits, including repetitive movements, bending, twisting, reaching, incorrect operator and patient positioning, and a static posture. Ergonomics is the science of fitting the working environment to the practitioner, instead of forcing one’s body to acclimate to the environment. Practicing proper ergonomics can increase productivity, decrease pain, and lengthen one’s career. At the conclusion of this course, participants will learn ergonomic techniques, exercises, proper patient positioning, and equipment choices to allow them to practice pain free.
Educational objectives
- Identify unique musculoskeletal disorders that affect dental professionals
- Assess ergonomic equipment to maintain proper positioning
- Review patient and operator positioning to improve ergonomics and reduce pain
STEPHANIE BOTTS, BSDH, RDH, CEAS, has been a full-time clinical dental hygienist for 13 years. She is a certified ergonomics assessment specialist providing in-office and virtual ergonomics consulting and coaching to dental professionals through her company, PosturePros. She also provides CE to dental and dental hygiene associations on the topic of ergonomics. Her experience as a clinical dental hygienist and ergonomics expert has allowed her to recognize the unique challenges of practicing pain free in the dental setting. Stephanie believes that dental professionals can practice pain free and ensure career longevity by learning effective strategies to optimize proper ergonomics both inside and outside the operatory.
Photo credit: 78346406 © Melpomenem | Dreamstime.com
QUICK ACCESS code 22050
Course Includes
- 1 Lesson
- 1 Test
- Course Certificate
CE credit(s): 3
Course Type: Written
Published Date: May 2022
This continuing education (CE) activity was developed by Endeavor Business Media with no commercial support.
This course was written for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, from novice to skilled.
Educational methods: This course is a self-instructional journal and web activity.
Provider disclosure: Endeavor Business Media neither has a leadership position nor a commercial interest in any products or services discussed or shared in this educational activity. No manufacturer or third party had any input in the development of the course content.
Requirements for successful completion: To obtain 3 CE credits for this educational activity, you must pay the required fee, review the material, complete the course evaluation, and obtain an exam score of 70% or higher.
CE planner disclosure: Laura Winfield, Endeavor Business Media dental group CE coordinator, neither has a leadership nor commercial interest with the products or services discussed in this educational activity. Ms. Winfield can be reached at lwinfield@endeavorb2b.com.
Educational disclaimer: Completing a single continuing education course does not provide enough information to result in the participant being an expert in the field related to the course topic. It is a combination of many educational courses and clinical experience that allows the participant to develop skills and expertise.
Image authenticity statement: The images in this educational activity have not been altered.
Scientific integrity statement: Information shared in this CE course is developed from clinical research and represents the most current information available from evidence-based dentistry.
Known benefits and limitations of the data: The information presented in this educational activity is derived from the data and information contained in the reference section.
Registration: The cost of this CE course is $39.00 for 3 CE credits.
Cancellation and refund policy: Any participant who is not 100% satisfied with this course can request a full refund by contacting Endeavor Business Media in writing.
Provider information:
Dental Board of California: Provider RP5933. Course registration number CA code: 03-5933-22050. Expires 4/30/25 0:00. “This course meets the Dental Board of California’s requirements for 3 units of continuing education.”
Endeavor Business Media is a nationally approved PACE program provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.
Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.
11/1/2022 to 10/31/2024.
Provider ID# 320452
AGD code: 770
Endeavor Business Media is designated as an approved Provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHPNW (January 1, 2022–December 31, 2024). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit. AADH code:
Endeavor Business Media is an ADA CERP–recognized provider.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of dental continuing education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.
Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to CERP at ada.org/goto/cerp.
