FOUR-HANDED DENTISTRY – TASKS OF TEAM MEMBERS AND GENERAL RULES FOR INSTRUMENT TRANSFER

Abstract

Four-handed dentistry is defined as a team-work style applied during dental care, in which the dentist is permanently aided by a dental assistant, who is actively involved in performing the dental maneuvers done to the patient. In order to implement most efficiently four-handed dentistry in dental practice, planning is essential – duties and tasks of team members should be well defined, and also the parameters of the interaction between the dentist and dental assistant, for good coordination and complementarity while delivering dental care. Teamwork skills need time to develop, the exercise and experience contributing to real improvements, leading progressively to the desired real four-handed dentistry.

Keywords

• ergonomics
• dentist
• dental assistant
• motion economy