Dust, chemistry and fine motor skills - the working environment in the laboratory

A dental laboratory is a fascinating blend of craftsmanship material technology and fine mechanics. But it is also a place where you must be alert to your own safety. You grind and polish you work with chemicals and heat and you sit for many hours in precise concentrated work. Good working conditions do not happen by themselves — it is something you learn and stick to.

§Dust from grinding and polishing

When you sand and polish gypsum acrylic metal or ceramic fine dust is released you shouldn't breathe into your lungs. So extraction at the workplace and respiratory protection are absolutely central. Get into the habit from day one of turning on extraction before turning on the machine — not the other way around. Certain vapors and particles from dental materials can be harmful to health with repeated inhalation.

§Chemistry: acryl monomers, acids and solvents

Work with, among other things, acrylic involves chemicals that can irritate skin and airways, and some can cause allergies over time. You must know the safety data sheets of the products, use gloves and respiratory protection according to the rules and ensure good ventilation. Take it seriously: an allergy to a substance you work with daily can in the worst case mean you can no longer stay in the trade.

§Heat, flames and machines

Wax must be heated metal can be cast and soldered and ceramic is fired at high temperatures. Hot surfaces and flames cause burns if you are careless. Grinding boring and milling machines have rotating parts that do not forgive loose hair jewelry or frayed sleeves. Learn the machines' safety functions use protection for eyes and hands and never take shortcuts to save a few seconds.

§The eyes and fine work

Much of the profession involves small components and high precision. This strains the eyes, and grinding dust and splinters can damage them. Use good lighting and optional magnification, and always have eye protection on when working on machines. Also take micro-breaks so your eyes get to rest.

§Ergonomics: take care of your neck, back and hands.

You often sit bent forward with your hands in fine, repetitive movements. This strains the neck, shoulders, back, and wrists. You prevent this by adjusting work height and chair correctly, varying your work positions, and taking short breaks. This type of strain injuries builds up over years - good habits must start from the beginning.

• 01Set the bench, chair and lighting so you work with a straight back and relaxed shoulders.
• 02Switch between work tasks, so the same joints aren't strained all day.
• 03Always use extraction and respiratory protection during grinding and polishing.
• 04Take micro-breaks during monotonous, precise tasks - this prevents repetitive strain injuries and tendinitis.

“You must be able to sustain the trade for many years. It's determined by the habits you develop in the first weeks.”