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💡 Read through to the end for an exclusive polishing discount + a free chairside stretch guide!
As a dental professional, your hands are your most valuable tools. But the constant pinch force required for instrumentation, polishing, and suction can take a serious toll on your hand and wrist health. Over time, excessive pinch force can contribute to pain, fatigue, and even long-term injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. It can even affects your neck and back!
The good news? There are simple ergonomic solutions that can dramatically reduce strain while keeping you efficient and comfortable. Here are three essential products every clinician should be using to minimize pinch force and protect their hands:
1. Ergonomic Mirrors: Wide, Light, and Balanced
A standard thin-handled mirror requires a tight grip, leading to unnecessary muscle tension. Instead, choose an ergonomic mirror with a wider handle, textured grip, and balanced weight distribution. These features allow for a lighter, more relaxed hold, reducing pinch force and hand fatigue throughout the day.
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2. Suction Devices: Free Your Non-Dominant Hand
![Not using a suction device](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/a726dc_fda22c7be7cd408abd80ecda8fd504c0~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_980,h_1307,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/a726dc_fda22c7be7cd408abd80ecda8fd504c0~mv2.jpg)
One of the biggest mistakes I see in the operatory? Holding the suction yourself while working. This not only increases pinch force but also leaves you without a free hand to use your mirror properly—forcing you into awkward postures.Using a hands-free suction attachment allows you to work with both hands, reducing strain on your fingers, wrists, and shoulders while improving ergonomics and efficiency.
![Using a hands-free suction device](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/a726dc_d3dc309b1c024fae97308546e9ff3a68~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_980,h_1190,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/a726dc_d3dc309b1c024fae97308546e9ff3a68~mv2.jpg)
3. Cordless Polishers: No More Fighting Against the Cord
Traditional corded polishers require constant grip adjustments and excess pinch force just to maneuver around the patient’s mouth and resist the pull of the cord. A cordless polisher eliminates this struggle, giving you smoother movement with less strain. The result? A more comfortable experience for both you and your patient.
🎧 Listen to the Podcast!
If you want to hear more about how pinch force affects your hands—and what you can do about—tune into my podcast episode on ergonomic tips for dental professionals!
Exclusive Offer: 10% Off All Polishing Products!
To make it easier for you to work pain-free, I’m offering 10% off all polishing-related products for a limited time (code: Polish10 at checkout) through 2/28/25.
Plus, with every polishing order, you’ll receive a free chairside stretch guide to help you incorporate small movements that prevent pain and stiffness throughout the day.
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🛒 Shop now and take care of your hands before injury takes over!
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