Dentistry
Generic job families |
Specialist areas |
Functional requirements |
Details/health and safety factors |
Exposure prone procedures |
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Majority of dental procedures are exposure prone |
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Outpatient work |
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Working singlehanded |
Physical and emotional resilience |
May present problems for dentists suffering from psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety, chronic pain or fatigue from any cause |
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Examining/diagnosis |
Sitting for extended periods Using variety of instruments, including needles, drills, suction etc Use head set with light and magnification Upper limb movements often in awkward or hyperextended position Need to accommodate patients with a variety of health conditions and work in especially awkward positions e.g. patient with curved spine who can’t lie down |
May present problems for dentists with musculoskeletal problems especially neck and lower back, upper limb disorders May present problems for dentists with advanced/arthritic condition of the hands which limits dexterity May present problems for dentists with visual acuity problems May present problems for dentists with neurological or other problems affecting fine motor skills and coordination |
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Concentration for extended periods |
May present problems for dentists suffering from psychological problems such as depression and anxiety, or fatigue from any cause |
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Taking X rays |
Leaving room or wearing lead jacket |
May present problems for dentists with spinal problems and when pregnant. However there is normally an option to leave the room |
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Upper and lower jaw restoration |
Procedure takes up to 90 minutes |
May present problems for dentists with musculoskeletal problems especially neck and lower back, upper limb disorders
May present problems for dentists with advanced/arthritic condition of the hands which limits dexterity
May present problems for dentists with visual acuity problems
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Extraction |
Standing for up to 40 minutes Depends on technique and body position rather than strength |
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Root canal treatment |
Use microscope Procedure takes up to 90 minutes |
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Cosmetic surgery/implants |
Procedures can take up to 4 hours |
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Dealing with aggressive patients (patients may became aggressive when scared) Risk of bites from some patient groups |
Resilience Skills to calm patients down |
May present problems for dentists suffering from psychological problems such as depression and anxiety |
Management/running business/Care Quality Commission assessment |
Management, business and medico legal knowledge |
Resilience |
Stressful part of role, especially if limited training May present problems for dentists suffering from psychological problems such as depression and anxiety |