🦋 Hello everyone!
How are you? I hope you have had a peaceful summer filled with joy.
I am now back home from vacation. I had some lovely quality time with family in Spain and Greece. My batteries are recharged and I am ready to give it all to all dentists out there in the world.
Being a dentist coach and mentor is not just about offering comforting words or easy solutions. It’s about addressing the harsh realities, sharing experiences, and sometimes discussing uncomfortable truths. In my journey from seeking validation to striving for sincerity and genuine impact, I have come to realize the pressing need to listen, especially to the younger generation of dentists. Their self-awareness, in contrast to my generation, is truly commendable. There may be several reasons for this shift, such as more attentive parenting or exposure to social media, but the fact remains: it’s time to pay attention to what dentists have to say.
The Struggles of Dentistry
I have walked on both sides of the dental profession, having been an employed dentist and the owner of my own dental clinic. I understand the unique challenges and struggles faced by dentists in both scenarios. However, one common theme has emerged as I’ve transitioned into a coach for dentists: it’s time to listen to their voices.
The Younger Generation’s Perspective
I am genuinely proud of the younger generation of dentists. They possess a level of self-awareness that is refreshing and promising. Unlike my generation, they don’t simply follow instructions blindly. They question, they seek meaning, and they are unafraid to challenge the status quo. This shift is significant and offers hope for the future of dentistry.
The Need to Listen
Many dentists today are not happy, and it’s crucial that we stop and listen to their concerns. The consequences of neglecting their voices could be severe. I have initiated a survey for dentists to better understand the factors causing stress and burnout in the field. The overwhelming response highlights financial stress due to low salaries coupled with an overwhelming workload as a common issue faced by dentists worldwide.
The Stressful Reality of Dentistry
Dentistry is inherently stressful. The pressure to provide quality care in a short amount of time, administrative burdens, and the constant feeling of isolation can take a toll on a dentist’s well-being. Every dentist aspires to improve their skills, but oftentimes, courses are used as bait to retain them in their current positions. This many times hinders professional growth and adds to the frustration.
The Indoctrination of “Patients Come First”
One significant factor contributing to the burnout dentists experience is the deeply ingrained belief that patients always come first. While this commitment to patient care is essential, it often leads dentists to neglect their own well-being. The culture of self-sacrifice can have detrimental effects on mental and physical health.
Communication and Solutions
The time has come for effective communication and meaningful solutions. The younger generation of dentists is demanding change, and it’s our responsibility to respond. The dental community must unite, share insights, and work collectively to address these challenges. Dentists need support and a platform to express their concerns, ideas, and innovations.
The Generation of Change
Late Millennials and Gen Z generation of dentists is poised to revolutionize the field. We are already witnessing dentists leaving their workplaces, changing their career paths, or even exiting dentistry altogether. This trend should not be ignored, as it could lead to a crisis in dental care, leaving people without the treatment they need.
The Hypothetical Strike
Consider the unthinkable: what would happen if dentists went on strike? Last week, doctors and dentists in New Zealand took a stand, highlighting the urgency of change in the profession. Our lack of unity and the isolation in which we work have contributed to this dire situation. The stress and workload have reached unsustainable levels.
The Call for a Six-Hour Workday
In a previous blog post, I discussed the idea of a six-hour workday, which many dentists believe would significantly improve their quality of life and work. Dentists face such high levels of stress that it’s nearly impossible to recharge within the limited hours they have outside of work. This is not a sustainable situation, and it’s time for our profession to prioritize mental well-being just as we prioritize oral health.
Looking Ahead to the Global Dental Collective Event
I am eagerly anticipating the Global Dental Collective event in London on October 20th. This dentist gathering is unlike any other global dental event. It is a platform for dentists, to share their thoughts and concerns openly. This event is about addressing the challenges that dentists find most pressing. We need more gatherings like this, ones that prioritize dialogue and action over tradition. It’s time to bring balance to dentistry, to find equilibrium between patient health and the well-being of the provider and the profession.
The time for change in dentistry has arrived. We cannot afford to ignore the voices of dentists, especially the younger generation, who are leading the charge for a better future. It’s time for dentists to come together, communicate openly, and work towards solutions that improve the profession’s well-being and sustainability. Let us prevent a mental health crisis within dentistry while continuing to prevent oral illness in our patients. The future of dentistry depends on our ability to listen and act.
🌷I wish you all a wonderful Monday and week.
Take care 🦋
Christina
Great opening topic
A lot to chew on.
6 hour work day is so critical
As a surgeon, I can’t tell you how many 14-16 hour days I did. Running from one hospital to another back to the office, ect….loved it… but wouldn’t recommend it.
Now with 2 children entering dentistry and 2 in nursing… one anesthetist… my manta is enjoy life. Enjoy your work Yes but at the expense of a life well lived.
Mental
Physical
Emotional
Spiritual
4 pillars to a healthy balanced life.
So yes… I am in agreement
You may not get rich
But you’ll love a better life.