Objectives

Research into work-related factors that positively influence Oral Health Providers (OHPs) health is scarce. This study aimed to analyse which OHPs in dental services remain healthy over time in relation to work- and health-related factors.

Methods

OHPs took part in this prospective cohort study (n=168). In 2012 and 2014 they answered a questionnaire featuring questions about demographics, health indicators, work and organisational factors.

Results

OHPs were classified into three subgroups; healthy group (n=66), semi-healthy group (n=45) and unhealthy group (n=57). The healthy group reported no sick leave or sickness presence in 2012 or 2014. Factors that explained a greater likelihood of belonging to the healthy group were: good work ability, not having neck pain, perceived low exertion at the end of the working day, not having sleeping problems. They scored higher on health indicators than OHPs in the unhealthy group.

Conclusions

OHPs with no sick leave or sickness presence report much better salutogenic health, better physical work ability and lower perceived exertion at the end of their workday compared with unhealthy group of OHPs. Understanding the relationship between working conditions and well-being is crucial to target interventions for OHPs which improve work conditions and health.