Research shows that over 70% of dentists experience neck, shoulder, and lower back pain as early as their third year of training; that is how fast musculoskeletal problems may set in for dentists. This is often due to non-ergonomic stools, improper stool adjustments, poor body mechanics, and incorrect patient positioning, factors that place strain on the body. Additionally, as dental students, long hours leaning over textbooks and computers aren’t doing our posture any favors. But if we stay physically active and focus on posture improvement when we are outside the clinic, we can greatly minimize our risk of injury and enjoy a healthier, longer career as dentists.
It’s no secret that finding time to hit the gym can feel impossible with a packed schedule and a heavy workload. Physical health easily takes a backseat when you’re juggling lectures, clinical practice, and study sessions. But your well-being is just as crucial as your academic success. Linking exercise to your reward system can help turn physical activity into a motivating habit rather than another task on your to-do list.
Exercise stimulates the release of dopamine, the “feel-good” hormone that gives you the same rush you get after indulging in a sweet treat after a tough day. Engaging in core-strengthening exercises, targeting the abdominal and back muscles connected to your spine and pelvis, help maintain good posture, a must in a physically demanding profession like dentistry.
It’s easy to associate exercise with grueling cardio or intense endurance workouts but staying active doesn’t have to feel exhausting or overwhelming if you’re not into high intensity workouts. My first Pilates session at my university gym shifted my perspective on this; it wasn’t just about getting fit, it became a fun, confidence-boosting experience that improved my strength, flexibility, and balance. Going along with my friends made me want to continue, and it was the feeling of empowerment from them that helped make it a habit that stuck. Even during exam season, when there wasn’t much time left, I’d still make room for short online Pilates workouts at home.
The key is finding physical activity that fits your schedule and feels enjoyable. When exercise becomes a chore, it’s easy to drop the habit. That’s why activities like Pilates and yoga are great options, especially for those dealing with back pain. These practices focus on core strength and incorporate stretches and exercises in a supine position, helping to relieve tension and increase flexibility. Beyond the immediate benefits of feeling good, I reminded myself that regular physical activity is an investment in my future. Chronic pain and its impact on my ability to perform my job are long-term consequences that consistent exercise can help prevent, so by choosing activities I enjoy and that support my posture, I’m protecting both my body and my career.
Perfecting your posture doesn’t happen overnight – it’s a gradual process that requires consistent effort, often taking around five weeks to start seeing meaningful changes. Everyone progresses at their own pace when it comes to breaking old habits and replacing them with healthier ones. The key takeaway is this: you can’t effectively care for others if you neglect your own well-being. Ignoring the importance of posture and skipping necessary breaks won’t go unnoticed by your body; eventually, it will demand the rest you’ve denied it. To ensure a long, healthy, and rewarding career in dentistry, prioritizing good posture is essential. Many who have suffered from back injuries in the field know too well the regret of not having paid closer attention to their own health. By investing in your own physical well-being, you’re not only protecting your career but also ensuring that you can continue to provide the best care for your patients.
About the Author
Farah Farhat is a second-year Canadian dental student at University College Cork in Ireland. Prior to beginning her dental studies, she completed an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Health and Life Sciences from the University of Ottawa. She is passionate about dental public health and has researched dental health inequities in Canada, aiming to become a lifelong advocate for her patients. In her free time, Farah enjoys ceramics and embroidery, hobbies that have also inspired her journey into dentistry. She shares her experiences as a dental student at UCC on Instagram as @farahthetoothfairyy.