Perio: Principles of Positioning and Dental Ergonomics/ Principles of Instrumentation Grasp and Fulcrum

Question 1

Define Ergonomics and state why it is so important in Dentistry

Answer 1

– Ergonomics can be defined as ”the applied science of equipment
design, as for the workplace, intended to maximize productivity by
reducing operator fatigue and discomfort”

– Ergonomics includes the knowledge of how work can be organised
and conducted in an efficient, comfortable and healthy way not
leading to injury!

Question 2

List 3 groups of Musculoskeletal disorders, give examples of them and
list common causes for them

Answer 2

Common causes of MSD symptoms:
– Repetitive motions
– Excessive force with working motions
– Static and Incorrect posture straining neck, shoulders and back
– Vibrating tools

Question 3

Describe and demonstrate the characteristics of Neutral Positioning for
the dental clinician (operator)

Answer 3

Question 4

Describe and demonstrate the characteristics of Neutral Positioning for
the dental patient

Answer 4

Question 5

Describe and demonstrate the characteristics of Neutral Positioning of
equipment

Answer 5

Lower the patient chair until the
tip of the patient’s nose is just
below the clinician’s waist

Question 6

List and describe what Ancillary Equipment may be of benefit to the
Dental Operator in maintaining good posture and positioning

Answer 6

– Magnification loupes: Magnifies treatment area by improving visual sharpness Reduces strain to clinician is not leaning forward
– Magnification loupes with Co-axial illumination
– Bambach (saddle chair)

Question 7

Describe and demonstrate correct clinician (patient-operator) positioning
using an analogue clock face as a guide

Answer 7

Question 8

Have an understanding of Quadrants and Sextants and the difference
between them

Answer 8

Question 9

12’oclock position is for when probing which sextant?

Answer 9

Sextant 2 and 512’ oclock is for anterior teeth, chin up when maxillary, chin down when mandibular

Question 10

What position should right handers sit when perio probing sextant 1?

Answer 10

Question 11

What position should right handers sit when perio-probing sextant 3?

Answer 11

Question 12

What position should right handers sit when perio-probing sextant 4?

Answer 12

Question 13

What position should right handers sit when perio-probing sextant 6?

Answer 13