The labor activity of dental surgeons within the multidisciplinary context of ergonomics: a review of the domains to be considered in dental environments

Abstract

Numerous scientific studies show that dental professionals are exposed daily to various risks associated with various agents present in the workplace. The objective of this study was to conduct a literature review related to research concerning dental activity in Brazil, under the aegis of ergonomics. Using the principles of Work Ergonomic Analysis (WEA) as parameters, this study focused on giving an overview of the main ergonomic approaches addressed by researchers for a wide range of problems in this field. The method used in the study was a literature review of 48 scientific papers selected from the period of July to November 2014. The results showed that studies related to the fields of physical ergonomics focused on the dentist’s activity are widely addressed. Thus, this paper suggests new research lines on a cognitive and organizational level.

Keywords

• Ergonomic Work Analysis
• Ergonomics in dentistry
• Cognitive Ergonomics
• Organizational Ergonomics
• Physical Ergonomics.