dental hygiene clock positon

2/11/2014

Clinician Clock Positions

Learning Objectives:
By the end of this class you will be able to:



Demonstrate and maintain neutral seated position for each of the mandibular and maxillary treatment areas.



Demonstrate correct patient position relative the clinician



Demonstrate, from memory, the traditional clock position for each of the mandibular and maxillary treatment areas.



Demonstrate standing clinician position for the mandibular treatment areas. 

Recognize incorrect position and describe or demonstrate how to correct the problem.

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Clinician Clock Positions



During instrumentation the clinician moves around the patient to maintain a neutral body position.



Use the face of an analog clock as a guide to identify the clinician’s position in relation to the patient’s head.

Recommended Clock Position: Rationale:


Reduces musculoskeletal stress because the clinician can maintain neutral positioning



Provides optimal vision of the tooth surfaces during instrumentation 2

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Clock Positions
Using an analog clock face as a guide: The

patient’s head is at 12 o’clock. The

patient’s feet are at 6 o’clock. Range of Positions


Three examples of possible seated positions in relation to the patient



The range of clock positions is from 8 to 4 o’clock.

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Patient Head Position


The patient’s head position should facilitate neutral arm, wrist, and hand position for the clinician.

Right-Handed Clinician
Clock Positions

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8:00—To the Front of the Patient

9:00—To the Side of the Patient

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10-11:00—Corner of Headrest

12:00—Behind the Patient

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1-2:00—Corner of Headrest

Left-Handed Clinician
Clock Positions

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3-4:00—To the Front of the Patient

3:00—To the Side of the Patient

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