Utilizing the Finnish method to assessment the dentist's adaptability to physical, environmental, cognitive, and macro-ergonomic features in dental practice: A health promotion approach.

BACKGROUND: Dentistry, as a profession with the high stress and high precision in execution, is crucial in establishing optimal working conditions. Given the limited studies on ergonomics and physical risk factors in the dental work environment, this research aims to quantitatively assess clinical dentistry's physical, environmental, cognitive, and macro-ergonomic aspects, focusing on improving physical interactions with the environment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted from March to December 2024 in Ardabil Dental Clinics, Iran. A total of 196 dentists were randomly selected through simple random sampling. Data collection involved direct observation using the standard ergonomic quantification checklist based on the Finnish method and environmental measurements. The dentist's adaptation and acceptance of existing working conditions were also examined. Instruments used included a photometer to assess illumination (lux), a sound level meter to evaluate noise (decibels), and a WBGT thermometer to measure workplace temperature (Celsius). Data were statistically analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and one-sample t-tests. RESULTS: Among the evaluated dental offices, 81.1% were general dentists, and 18.9% were specialists, with 89.3% working in private and 10.7% in public clinics. Analysts' evaluations showed significant differences compared to the dentists' self-assessments in indicators such as physical activity, lifting loads, and satisfaction with work components. Analysts assessed these aspects as being in poorer conditions than the dentists themselves reported. Additionally, a comparison of environmental indicators with optimal standards revealed that the average illumination (1547.59 lux) was higher, while temperature (20.61°C) and noise levels72.61 dB) were lower than the standard values (1500 lux, 24.5°C, and85dB) (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Although some environmental factors in dental offices deviate from optimal standards-such as increased illumination and reduced temperature and noise levels-overall dentist evaluations indicate relative satisfaction with ergonomic conditions. Therefore, improving and optimizing these factors is recommended to enhance dentists' comfort and efficiency.