The Score Amazone Saddle Stool: Supporting Dental Hygienists’ Health and Posture

The Benefits of the Score Amazone Saddle Stool for Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists spend much of their workday in static or semi-static seated positions. They often lean over patients at awkward angles. Over time, this can lead to musculoskeletal problems, fatigue, and discomfort. The Score Amazone saddle stool is designed to address these challenges. Below, I outline its benefits—why it’s well-suited for dental hygienists, how it supports health, and what makes it a worthwhile investment.

What is the Score Amazone?

The Score Amazone is a saddle-style stool produced by Score Seating (Netherlands). It is designed specifically for dental and oral care professionals. Some variants include features such as a Balance mechanism, adjustable lumbar support, and hygienic upholstery.

Key Specifications

• Seat dimensions: Approximately 34 × 30 cm for the Amazone, narrower than some alternatives.

• Height options: Available in low, standard, and high cylinders to suit different working heights.

• Upholstery options: Designed for hygiene, e.g., Stamskin (antimicrobial, waterproof) and seamless variants without stitching to reduce dirt accumulation.

  
  

Benefits for Dental Hygienists

Improved Posture & Spinal Alignment

The Amazone’s saddle shape tilts the pelvis forward slightly. This encourages the natural “S-curve” of the spine. It helps avoid slouching and reduces lumbar strain. This is especially helpful when leaning over during cleanings, scaling, or polishing. Hygienists often hunch, compromising their back, neck, and shoulders.

Active Sitting & Reduced Fatigue

Some models of the Amazone, such as those with the Balance mechanism, allow slight, subtle movements. These “micro-movements” help spread load and forces over different muscle groups. This prevents certain areas from becoming overstressed. The result is a more engaged body, supporting core stability and circulation. This can significantly reduce fatigue during long procedures.

Better Access & Mobility

The design of the Amazone stool allows hygienists to move more freely around the patient. This is particularly useful when switching between positions, reaching for instruments, or adjusting posture. A compact, well-designed base with smooth castors provides excellent manoeuvrability. Dental hygiene tasks often require dynamic movement, and this stool supports that.

Reduced Risk of Musculoskeletal Disorders

The reduced strain on the lower back, neck, and shoulders leads to a lower risk of chronic injuries. Improved posture, lumbar support, and active sitting contribute to this benefit. Hygienists who transition from conventional seating to ergonomic saddle stools often report fewer complaints of pain or stiffness.

Hygiene & Cleanability

In dental environments, cleanliness and infection control are paramount. The Amazone comes with upholstery options that are antibacterial, antimicrobial, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. Seamless upholstery, which has no stitching, reduces crevices where dirt or contaminants can accumulate. This makes maintenance easier and safer.

Customization & Fitting

Dental hygienists vary in height, build, and working style. Options for lumbar support, height adjustment (low/standard/high), tilt vs. Balance mechanism, and different upholstery finishes allow for a tailored fit. Proper fit is essential for comfort and avoiding strain.

Energy, Focus & Productivity

When less energy is spent on discomfort or trying to relieve strain, more can be focused on the job. This includes concentrating on the patient, technique, and quality of work. With reduced physical distractions, you may find it easier to maintain performance over longer sessions. Additionally, better breathing and circulation from improved posture help maintain alertness.

Considerations / What to Keep in Mind

To fully realise these benefits, there are a few things to check:

• Correct adjustment: Ensure the stool fits you and your workspace. A mismatched stool can create new strain.

• Adaptation time: Sitting in saddle stools can feel quite different at first. Some discomfort is normal as your body adjusts.

• Regular breaks: Movement is still essential. No stool can fully eliminate the need to shift, stretch, and adjust positions throughout the day.

  
  

Conclusion

The Score Amazone saddle stool offers multiple compelling benefits for dental hygienists. These include ergonomic alignment, better posture, reduced risk of injury, enhanced mobility, and improved hygiene. For hygienists who spend many hours leaning, bending, and performing precise work, investing in a well-designed stool like the Amazone can significantly enhance day-to-day comfort and long-term career sustainability.

For more information on ergonomic solutions, visit Precision Ergonomics.