As a dentist, you spend a lot of time sitting and hunching over patients. This puts you at risk of developing muscle fatigue and even injuries and may result in episodes of back, neck, and wrist pain. Fortunately, these uncomfortable scenarios can be avoided by practicing ergonomics. The Anchorage and Wasilla, AK, clinics of Four Corners Dental Group are ergonomically optimized to ensure they provide the best dental care services and care for their staff members’ health at the same time.

Here, they’ll explain which ergonomic principles they implemented in their office to help you protect your health as a dentist:

• Maintain Proper Posture: Maintaining good posture is important to prevent overexertion and muscle pain. Keep your back straight with your head and neck aligned over your shoulders, and keep your feet flat on the floor to distribute your weight evenly on both hips.

• Set Up Your Workstation: Your workstation should be set up in a way that promotes good posture. The instrument table, patient’s chair, and dentist’s chair, should be carefully placed so as to avoid overreaching or forcing you to put your body in a stressful position. Put your chair close to the patient, and place the instrument tray next to you.

• Practice Simple Stretches: Do simple stretches throughout the day to relieve stiff muscles and joints. Alternate between sitting, standing, and working next to your patients. This will allow your muscles to relax while promoting healthy circulation.

• Use Ergonomic Furniture: Use an adjustable dentist’s chair that supports your lower back and allows your feet to rest firmly on the ground. Adjust the seat height so your hips are slightly higher than your knees. The workstation should also have adequate lighting to prevent you from squinting and straining your eyes.

By following these tips, you’ll protect your health and be better able to help your patients maintain theirs. And if you’re a patient looking for a reliable dentist to restore your smile or whiten your teeth, you can trust the experts at Four Corners Dental Group. They specialize in preventive and cosmetic dentistry. Call them today at (907) 258-3384 or visit their website to learn more about their practice.