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Dentists are at high risk for musculoskeletal disorders due to occupational health hazards. In India, even though the population is high, there is still a lack of awareness about the prevalence of work- related musculoskeletal disorders among dentists in this rapidly growing occupational sector. Identifying the common sites of ailment and comparing them with the contributing factors associated with these musculoskeletal symptoms can help to develop ergonomic recommendations for the dental profession in Chennai city. This study was aimed at investigating the common sites of ailment and comparing them with the contributing factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders among dentists in the city. Using stratified sampling method, 297 dentists were selected and given questionnaire based on the type of ailment, common sites of ailment, duration of ailments, treatment modalities, and effectiveness of therapy. The dentists reported that the most common sites of ailment were shoulder (n 5 106/297) neck (n 5 78/297), and lower back (n 5 67/297). This study revealed the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints among the various age groups of dentists is common in the shoulder and neck regions. Dentists should implement right ergonomic designing in their dental clinics along with regular exercise and relaxation techniques, which help them to combat stress, thus improving the quality of life, resulting in consistent long-lasting work efficiency.
