Occupational Hazards in Dentistry

Dental personnel are constantly exposed to a number of specific occupational hazards. These cause the appearance of various disorders, specific to the profession, which develop and intensify with years. Being unaware of the potential hazards in the work environment makes them more vulnerable to injury. Occupational hazards like biological health hazards, stresses, latex hypersensitivity, exposure to radiation (ionizing and non-ionizing), occupational respiratory hypersensitivity, as well as factors leading to the musculoskeletal system diseases. It is therefore important that all the dental personnel remain constantly informed regarding occupational hazards and implementation of preventive strategies to provide a safe working environment.Awareness regarding these occupational hazards and implementation of preventive strategies can provide a safe working environment for all the dental personnel. There is also a need for continuing dental education programs in dentistry so that dentists can update themselves with the latest and newer techniques and materials.