Introduction: The persistence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) in dentistry across career stages highlights a systemic lack of ergonomic training, with preventive strategies often overlooked in dental curricula and clinical practice. Aim: This study aims to assess the 12-month prevalence of WRMSDs among dental students and practitioners, examine associations with sociodemographic and occupational factors, and evaluate the role of ergonomic behavior in musculoskeletal risk. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 256 dental students and dentists at Riyadh University Hospital. Data on musculoskeletal pain were collected using the standard Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Results and Discussion: WRMSDs were highly prevalent among younger participants aged 18–29 years (81.2%), highlighting early career vulnerability. Clinical experience indicated that pain was most prevalent among dentists with 6–10 years of practice, particularly affecting the neck (90.9%), upper back (72.7%), wrist/hand (72.7%), and elbows (63.6%). Career-stage analysis indicated that neck pain was most prevalent among practicing dentists (82.4%), upper back pain among students (54.1%), and knee pain among specialists (47.6%). Lack of foot support emerged as a significant ergonomic risk factor, with nonadherents experiencing 2.5–3.5 times the prevalence of elbow, wrist/hand, hip/thigh, and knee pain ( P < 0.05). Despite this substantial burden, medical consultation rates remained low (19.1%–37.5%). Conclusion: WRMSDs are common in dentistry, emerging early and persisting throughout careers. Targeted ergonomic education and preventive strategies, including foot support and balanced posture, are essential to reduce risk and sustain career longevity.
Khashaba et al. (2026) studied this question.