Publications

26 March 2026
Work-related musculoskeletal symptoms across the dental training–practice continuum: a cross-sectional survey
Journal of Dentistry 2026 Vol. 169 Pages 106661
Objective: To estimate the prevalence, frequency, and severity of musculoskeletal symptoms and associations with preclinical history, loupe practices, and ergonomic exposures across a dental workforce and training pipeline over a 12-month period.

Methods: Cross-sectional online survey administered to dental students and clinicians assessing 12-month MSS prevalence by body region, symptom frequency and severity, loupe use and fitting practices, and exposure to ergonomic training.

Results: 308 respondents completed the survey. Musculoskeletal symptoms were highly prevalent, with practising clinicians reporting greater frequency and severity than students. Neck, upper back, and lower back were most commonly affected. Adjusted logistic regression identified an association between loupe use and neck pain (adjusted OR=2.06, 95% CI 1.25–3.41, p=0.005).

Conclusions: Findings support a prevention-oriented approach across the dental training–practice continuum prioritising early risk identification, appropriate visual ergonomics, and sustained skills-based ergonomic training.

Note: In Press, Journal Pre-proof. Open access. Available online 26 March 2026.

Keywords Musculoskeletal disorders, Dental Ergonomics, Cross sectional Survey, Dental loupes, Postural Risk, Ergonomic Training, Dental Education