Health and retirement

Abstract

This chapter deals with the occupational health and safety concerns faced by oral health professionals, as well as how they may prepare for and enjoy their retirement. The most common occupational health hazards experienced by oral health professionals include physical dangers, such as blood-borne viruses, therapeutic radiation and biomaterial chemicals, harmful noise, vibration, and ergonomic stress. Many dentists may also encounter psychological stress and occasionally even workplace violence. Retirement is both a psychological and a social phenomenon, with personal and financial implications, all influenced by individual and cultural characteristics. It is a stage of life usually associated with reduced activity, responsibility, and stress; however, there are many pathways to approaching and preparing for retirement and oral health professionals are encouraged to consider the broad range of approaches that may be taken in this stage of their professional lives.