[Dentist and disability: a matter of occupational disease?].

The incidence of and background to disability claims by dentists relating to 1999 are presented on the basis of data from Movir insurance company. Possible cases of occupational related disease are indicated. Claims resulting in more than 2 weeks sick leave have been received from almost 7% of the insured dentists (excluding pregnancy related sick leave). In nearly 30% of the cases, sick leave lasted for more than 1 year (particularly due to mental and musculoskeletal disorders). Compared to the figures for 1992 long-term health related absenteeism (longer than 365 days) has increased by as much as 155%. It is estimated that at least 15% of the claims are occupationally related. Based on the 1999 data a dentist would have approximately a chance of 50% for partial or complete premature retirement due to ill health.