Rethinking How We Sit: Why Many Dentists Are Choosing Salli Saddle Stools

For dentists, posture isn’t just about comfort—it’s about career longevity. Long hours of leaning over patients, often in awkward positions, can take a toll on the body over time. Back pain, neck tension, shoulder fatigue—it’s common, and for many, it becomes part of the job. But it doesn’t have to be.

In recent years, more dental professionals have started rethinking their workstations, including the chair they sit on every day. One option that’s gaining traction in the dental field is the saddle stool, particularly models like the Salli Saddle Stool, which was originally developed with ergonomics in mind.

Here’s why it’s becoming a preferred option—not because it’s trendy, but because it helps solve real, everyday problems.

1. Encourages a More Natural Sitting Posture

The saddle stool is shaped to position your pelvis similarly to how you would sit on a horse. That might sound odd at first, but it actually helps your spine align in a natural, upright position—something that’s hard to achieve in most traditional stools.

For dentists, this upright posture helps reduce the strain on the lower back and shoulders during procedures. Over time, it can make a noticeable difference in how your body feels at the end of a long day.

2. Less Pressure, More Comfort

Traditional seating can put pressure on the tailbone, hips, and even soft tissues in the pelvic area—especially during long procedures. Many saddle stools, like the split-design options, reduce this pressure by distributing weight more evenly.

It’s not about sitting perfectly still, either. These stools encourage small shifts and movements throughout the day, which can help reduce stiffness and fatigue.

3. Greater Range of Motion

Dentists often need to move quickly and smoothly around the patient while staying close to the treatment area. A well-designed saddle stool supports that kind of mobility. Because your legs are in a wider, angled position, it’s easier to shift, reach, and reposition without twisting your spine.

This mobility can help make procedures more efficient and reduce the subtle strain that builds up from repetitive movements.

4. Helps With Circulation and Muscle Engagement

One overlooked aspect of sitting is how it affects blood flow. The posture promoted by saddle stools—open hip angle, upright spine—may improve lower-body circulation compared to traditional sitting. It also may lightly engage the core muscles, which can help maintain balance and posture throughout the day.

These small benefits add up, especially during long sessions where you're focused on the patient and not your own posture.

Final Thoughts

Saddle stools aren’t a cure-all, but they do offer a thoughtful alternative to the standard seating most dental professionals are used to. For many, making the switch has helped reduce daily discomfort and improve overall posture—things that matter a lot when you’re spending decades in a physically demanding profession.

Like any tool, it’s worth trying for yourself and seeing how your body responds. At the very least, it’s a conversation worth having—about how we care for our own health while caring for others. To see out range of Salli Saddle Stools for Dentists please click here