While at first glance the dental profession may not seem physically demanding, surprisingly many in the dental field experience physical discomfort. In fact, a recent research journal study reveals that a vast majority of those employed in this vocation experience ongoing pain. The purpose of this article is to explain what conditions specifically affect people in dentistry and what can be done to help alleviate their illnesses.

The March 2017 Journal of Back in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation published a research study in which dentists, dental assistants, and dental technicians completed an analysis of a health questionnaire. The findings revealed that neck pain is a common complaint. While nearly 76% of dentists, nearly 91% of dental assistants, and 40% of dental technicians experienced neck discomfort, only 40% of those surveyed had sought care for their neck symptoms. The authors of the analysis conclude: “Taking into account that these discomforts affect the performance of both professional and daily activities, their prevention is necessary to avoid the consequences that they entail.”

When one realizes what a dentist, assistant or hygienist has to do each work day, it becomes clear why they are susceptible to injury. First, they are sitting somewhat hunched over their patient, possibly in a crooked posture for long periods of time throughout the day. They also keep their upper limbs in the same position for long periods. This puts great stress on the neck and upper back, as well as the lower back.

Recently, while at a social function, I met a dentist who had to stop practicing her profession in her early 50s due to excruciating pain in her neck and upper back. She told me that she would have loved to continue practicing, but the long hours of sitting and caring for her patients while they performed their tasks were more than she could physically bear.

Being myself in the chiropractic profession, I treat various people, both dentists and dental hygienists, for the care of their neck, middle and lower back pain. Once their discomfort is relieved and they are able to perform their professional duties comfortably, many return periodically for preventive maintenance care.

Chiropractors are considered the “go-to” specialists for common spinal conditions. A chiropractor will have an initial evaluation with the patient and will discuss the symptoms they have. It is also helpful to know if the patient’s activities of daily living are hampered. The chiropractic doctor will also perform a physical exam to determine what is causing the pain. X-rays of the spine are often useful to identify the origin of the problem and rule out more serious pathologies. Since chiropractors are trained to help realign and restore proper spinal movement by gently and safely manipulating or adjusting the areas that have pinched or irritated nerves, they are in an ideal position to assist dental professionals. .