Evaluating Ergonomic Awareness in Dentistry: A Survey of Dental Students' Knowledge During Operative Procedures.

Abstract

Aim: The research aimed to explore students' self-perceptions of their clinical work and identify challenges affecting their performance in restorative and endodontic treatments.

Materials and methods: The research was conducted among 157 dental students utilizing a self-designed, validated, closed-ended questionnaire.

Results: The questionnaire received responses from 157 participants, including 88 undergraduates (UGs) and 69 postgraduates (PGs). Of these, 64% reported experiencing pain during clinical procedures, while 36% (n = 72) did not report any pain. Although 71.5% of students were aware of ergonomic posture, 28.5% of students were not. Despite this awareness, 64.5% of students found it challenging to maintain proper ergonomic postures while performing clinical tasks.

Conclusion: Although most students know ergonomic postures, many struggle to maintain them during clinical procedures. Incorporating dental ergonomics into the curriculum is crucial to improving students' well-being and efficiency.