Abstract
Introduction: The prevailing dominance of right-handedness in oral health practices often results in adequate ergonomic support for right-handed dominant oral health practitioners (RHDOHP). However, left-handed dominant oral health practitioners (LHDOHP) frequently face misunderstood challenges, typically finding themselves obliged to adapt to right-handed dental settings or resort to using their non-dominant hand.
Aim: This narrative literature review is aimed to investigate current literature on the experiences and practices of LHDOHPs globally, and explore recommendations made to support LHDOHP in various dental settings.
Method: Qualitative research methods were applied to this narrative literature review. Literature related to LHDOHPs, within Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally, were analysed and reviewed. Main recurring codes and themes were identified from the literature.
Result: Four themes were identified from the literature: characteristics of clinical dentistry and let-handed individuals, LHDOHPs ergonomics and musculoskeletal issues, biases experienced by LHDOHPs during clinical practice and training could increase support for LHDOHPs developing clinical practice.
Conclusion: Overall, the findings highlight that LHDOHPs working in right-handed dental settings face significant ergonomic challenges, risking their patients’ safety and their own. By introducing appropriate policies, guidelines and allocating sufficient resources in the dental setting will enable LHDOHS and LHDOHP to learn and practice in equitable conditions. This in-turn can significantly improve the safety of patients and whānau (family) receiving oral health care.