...relationship occupational environment. This could include many different concepts such how we position ourselves, how we position our patients, how we utilize equipment, how our work areas are designed and how all of these impact our health (Hodges, 1998).

As a dental assistant, ergonomics is important to your health and longevity in the profession. How often does your back ache at the end of the workday? How many days of work are missed due to work-related illnesses? Let me explain how starting with the basics can prevent these.

What is the best sitting position for you? Neutral-sitting position is ideal. This is sitting upright with your back straight and weight evenly distributed over the seat. Legs should be slightly separated with feet flat on the ring around the base of the chair. Your thighs should be parallel to the floor and front edge of the chair even with the patient's mouth. Position your chair close to the side of the patient with knees facing toward the patient's head. The height of the chair should be such that your eye level is 4 to 6 inches above the operator. This will give you a good line of vision into all areas of the patient's mouth.

If your chair has an arm support, it should be at the level of your abdomen and be used for reaching and leaning forward. The position of the mobile cart or cabinet top should be over your thighs and as...

NOTE: All illustrations and photos have been removed from this article.




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