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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
07:26
Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
Musculoskeletal disease and disability in dentists.
M G Cherniack1, J Dussetschleger, B Bjor
1Ergonomics Technology Center, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CI 06030-6210, USA. cherniack@nso.uchc.edu
Work (Reading, Mass.)
|May 8, 2010
Summary
Dentists experience significant work-related musculoskeletal injuries, leading to disability and lost work time, contrary to some US data. European and Swedish data suggest higher risks for dental professionals compared to other healthcare workers.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Dental Medicine
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Conflicting evidence exists regarding work-related musculoskeletal conditions causing disability and early retirement in dentists.
- US disability insurance data suggest low susceptibility, while European surveys and injury reports indicate higher dysfunction rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the extent of work-related musculoskeletal conditions, disability, and premature retirement among dentists.
- To compare the risk of musculoskeletal injury and lost work time in dentists with other healthcare professionals.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from Swedish dentists, including compulsory employment injury reports.
- Comparison of findings with existing data from the United States and other European countries.
Main Results:
- Data, including Swedish dentists, indicate that dentists are at the higher end of healthcare professionals for musculoskeletal injury.
- Dentists experience significant lost work time due to these conditions.
Conclusions:
- Musculoskeletal conditions pose a substantial risk for disability and lost work time in dentists.
- National differences in compensation and healthcare systems may influence the relationship between occupational exposure, injury, and retirement in the dental profession.
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