CONCLUSIONS Based on a limited number of studies , the use of ergonomic saddle seats and dental loupes leads to improved working postures .
The use of loupes appears to relieve shoulder , arm and h and pain .
However , their effect on neck pain is scarce .
None of the studies reported on the effect of the saddle seats on musculoskeletal pain .
OBJECTIVES Musculoskeletal disorders affect a high percentage of dentists , dental hygienists and therapists .
Static and awkward working postures are considered as major risk factors .
Proper seat selection and use of magnification loupes are promoted for their ergonomic benefits .
The aim of this review was to evaluate the existing empirical evidence on the effect of the above interventions on ( i ) correction of poor posture and ( ii ) reduction in musculoskeletal pain .
Effect of magnification lenses on student operator posture.
A distinct body of literature supports the association between clinical postures of the dental practitioner and work-related musculoskeletal disorders ( WRMD ) . Several aids or devices have been tested to improve clinical posture in the interest of decreasing WRMD . The use of magnification lenses while performing dental procedures may increase the quality of work and decrease the likelihood of musculoskeletal problems . To date , only anecdotal and personal opinions had existed regarding the benefits of using magnification lenses , and no empirical evidence had authenticated the contention that use of magnification lenses exerts a positive change in operator posture . The objective of this study was to assess the effect magnification lenses had on the posture of dental hygiene students . Using a r and omized crossover design , research ers videotaped nineteen senior dental hygiene students performing an intra-oral procedure with and without the use of magnification lenses . The tapes were then evaluated by a panel of five dental hygiene educators calibrated in the use of Branson 's Posture Assessment Instrument ( PAI ) . Results of a paired t-test indicate that the posture of the students while wearing magnification lenses was more acceptable ( p=.019 ) than when wearing traditional safety glasses . Results of this study indicate a quantifiable change in acceptability of posture for clinicians wearing magnification lenses  and suggest that the use of such lenses in dental education may be warranted
CONCLUSIONS Based on a limited number of studies , the use of ergonomic saddle seats and dental loupes leads to improved working postures .
The use of loupes appears to relieve shoulder , arm and h and pain .
However , their effect on neck pain is scarce .
None of the studies reported on the effect of the saddle seats on musculoskeletal pain .
OBJECTIVES Musculoskeletal disorders affect a high percentage of dentists , dental hygienists and therapists .
Static and awkward working postures are considered as major risk factors .
Proper seat selection and use of magnification loupes are promoted for their ergonomic benefits .
The aim of this review was to evaluate the existing empirical evidence on the effect of the above interventions on ( i ) correction of poor posture and ( ii ) reduction in musculoskeletal pain .