Common Workers’ Compensation Claims in Dental Offices — And How WSDA L&I Advantage Has You Covered
Most dental teams don’t think of their workplace as hazardous, but workplace injuries are more common than many realize. From accidental slips to the slow onset of repetitive motion injuries, dental professionals experience a wide range of injuries that can fall under workers’ compensation, or Washington State Labor & Industries (L&I), coverage.
Recognizing the Hidden Risks in Dental Practice Work
According to state and industry data, some of the most common workers’ compensation claims in dental offices include:
- Slips, trips, and falls from spills or cords or uneven flooring.
- Needlestick and sharps injuries during instrument handling.
- Back or shoulder strains from working with patients or moving equipment.
- Repetitive strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or neck and shoulder pain from sustained posture and repetitive hand motions.
While sudden accidents grab attention, repetitive use injuries are often the most frequently reported by dental practices. Over time, micro-movements, poor ergonomics, and long hours at the chair can add up to serious discomfort and costly claims. Even a single claim can have lasting financial and administrative impacts on a dental practice. Premium increases, lost productivity, and the complexity of navigating the L&I system can strain both staff and practice owners. For small or mid-sized dental practices, managing claims efficiently is critical to keeping operations smooth and sustainable.
Meet WSDA L&I Advantage: Your Partner in Workers’ Compensation
That’s where WSDA’s L&I Advantage program comes in. Formerly known as WSDA Retro, the program continues to provide free, expert workers’ compensation support to WSDA member practice owners through our experienced partners at Employer Resources Northwest (ERNwest).
Key program features include:
- Strategic Claims Management: Expert guidance through every step of the L&I process, from injury reporting to resolution, to help reduce claim costs and prevent future premium increases.
- Dedicated Support: Work directly with knowledgeable professionals who understand the unique environment of dental offices.
- Return-to-Work Reimbursement: Receive up to $50,000 per claim in wage reimbursements when bringing injured employees back on modified duty.
- Completely Free for WSDA Members: No enrollment fee, just support when you need it most.
ERNwest works with WSDA member dentists to provide expert claims management and guidance. Here are their thoughts on common claims and injuries they see in their work:
“Working closely with dental practices, we've seen how even small improvements — early provider visits, offering light duty, or ergonomic adjustments — can drastically change the trajectory of a claim. Our partnership with WSDA allows us to share our proven strategies and proactive claim management with members, ensuring they have the support they need to navigate complex claims and maintain long-term cost savings. This on-the-ground perspective helps bridge the gap between L&I policy and what actually happens in dental offices.”
Kaylynn Wollen - ERNwest Claims & Performance Specialist
Injuries, from both incidents and repetitive motion, are part of the reality of dental practice. But with WSDA L&I Advantage, you don’t have to navigate L&I claims alone. You’ll have expert support, reimbursement opportunities, and peace of mind — all included with your WSDA membership. Enroll in WSDA L&I Advantage today to ensure your office has expert help when an injury does occur.
How to Get Started:
- Visit wsda.org/advantage.
- If you are a WSDA member, sign up using this form.
- If a claim is filed pertaining to your practice, our partners at ERNwest will reach out to YOU to establish a claims management strategy.
