Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among leading factors for early retirement of dental practitioners while the application of ergonomic principles is often overlooked during dental education. The article aims to assess the need for dental ergonomics modules as an integrated part of the dental school curriculum and to quantify the significance and role of ergonomics in reducing musculoskeletal stress generated while undergoing dental training. The study design consisted of a three-part original close-ended multiple-choice questionnaire carried out among 75 sixth year students from “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania. Questions focused on the basic knowledge of theoretical ergonomics, the ISO 11226 standard and means of improvement in undergraduate ergonomics training. Most students had an average level of knowledge regarding dental ergonomic principles. Data analysis showed that 62.16% agree that the information received in the second-year dental ergonomics course was helpful in regard to time organization. A high percentage (86%) also understood the correct positioning of the patient while performing dental procedures. Although implementation of ergonomic principles in the early dental training years has a high influence in the prevention of MSDs, students do not fully understand the impact this subject has on their future careers.

The paper aims to study the impact of ozone (O3) treatment on the microstructural changes of the tooth enamel after the treatment at different time intervals. The ozonation was performed with gaseous O3 produced by HealOzone X4, the demineralization level was measured with the DiagnoDent Pen 2190 device, and the microstructure changes of enamel surface were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The results showed the exposure to O3 for 40-50 seconds enhanced enamel micro-hardness and ensures a rate of remineralization between 96.82-97.38%. In conclusion, in search of new minimally invasive solutions in the treatment of caries and to offer antimicrobial support of the oral cavity, the use of O3 as an alternative therapy to classical solutions may be a viable solution in dentistry.