Insights into Ergonomics Among Dental Professionals of a Dental Institute and Private Practitioners in Hubli-Dharwad Twin Cities, India

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of ergonomics among dental professionals of Hubli-Dharwad twin cities, India. METHODS: Investigator-developed, self-administered, closed-ended questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding ergonomics during dental practice was filled in by undergraduates, house surgeons, postgraduates, and faculty members of dental institutions and private practitioners from Hubli-Dharwad twin cities. RESULTS: Data were collected from a total of 250 participants, 50 belonging to each academic group. Overall mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 52%, 75%, and 55%, respectively. Significant correlation was found for age with attitude (chi2 = 10.734, p = 0.030) and behavior (chi2 = 12.984, p = 0.011). Marital status was significantly associated with all the three domains; knowledge (chi2 = 29.369, p = 0.000), attitude (chi2 = 29.023, p = 0.000), and practices (chi2 = 13.648, p = 0.009). CONCLUSION: Participants had considerable awareness and behavior toward ergonomics in dental practice. The high attitude score indicates stronger acceptance of ergonomics principles and guidelines during routine dental procedures. The current study highlights the situation of ergonomics in dental practice in the form of knowledge, attitude, and practices.