Evaluation of knowledge, attitude, and practices about the health-related occupational hazards among dental practitioners in Pondicherry, India

Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the awareness of occupation-related health hazards among dentists practicing in and around Pondicherry and to investigate the various occupation-related health problems among the practicing dentists in Pondicherry. Methodology: A validated questionnaire was responded by 278 dentists. The data collected were statistically analyzed to find the mean and proportion. Results: Work-related stress was considered by 59.93% (163) dentists as a reason for taking a toll on the health of dentists. Respiratory problems were reported by 52.94% of those who had systemic problems. Needle stick injury during working was reported by 65.56% (177). Strained eyes at the end of a working day were reported by 44.85%, and eye injury due to projectiles at least once a year was reported by 24.26%. Conclusion: It is absolutely necessary for the dental professionals to be aware of the problems they might be exposed to in their practice so that adequate precautions can be taken to prevent them from early burnout.