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The mindset of resilience in dentistry

BDJ In Practice volume 36, pages 19–21 (2023)Cite this article

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Dentistry can be an extremely stressful profession which calls for high levels of resilience within the practice. Dental professionals face the daily challenges of patient anxiety, complex procedures and an ever evolving field in dental technology. Hence cultivating resilience can be seen as a useful exercise to achieve for all within dentistry.

Take a look at the following instances where resilience is required within dentistry and make a note of which situations are personal to you:

  • Patient dental anxiety is very common within dentistry and therefore the ability to display compassion towards patients whilst providing a supportive atmosphere is vital1

  • There will be dental emergencies at times such as bleeding, trauma and severe pain; hence a composed dental professional is necessary to convey safety, comfort and a forthcoming positive outcome

  • Some patients can be uncooperative during procedures. It is at these times, a cool, calm and collected head is necessary to provide good dental care

  • Frequently, a dental professional's schedule may feel overwhelming, producing feelings of asphyxia and claustrophobia. Therefore, the ability to take a step back and review the situation is important

  • The evolution of dentistry is fast paced and it is up to the dentist to keep up with technological advancements

  • There may be times of ethical dilemmas when a patient's need to be cost conscious could affect the choice of procedure undertaken

  • Because of the intense nature of work life, this can affect and impact on the personal life of the dental professional. Resilience is important to maintain a balance between the two areas

  • The ever-changing dental regulations and standards married with the legal and administrative standards can cause stress and anxiety amongst dental staff

  • Dental staff can experience physical problems due to the continual bad postural placement during the working day. This can lead to long term issues such as back and spinal problems2

  • Not all clinical procedures result in a positive outcome. This can bring about stress and anxiety, especially in dentists who have admitted to perfectionism.

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References

  1. Demopoulos C A and Baker J. Managing dental anxiety with advanced behavioural techniques. Decisions in Dentistry; 2023; 9: 26-29.

  2. Pîrvu C, Pătraşcu I, Pîrvu D and Ionescu C. The dentist's operating posture - ergonomic aspects. J Med Life 2014; 7: 177-182.

  3. Mayo Clinic. Resilience: Build skills to endure hardship. Online information available at: www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/resilience-training/in-depth/resilience/art-20046311 (accessed September 2023).

  4. Verywellmind. Emotional Intelligence: how we perceive, evaluate, express, and control emotions. Online information available at: www.verywellmind.com/what-is-emotional-intelligence-2795423 (accessed September 2023).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Mind Coach, London, United Kingdom

    David Rahman

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  1. David Rahman
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Correspondence to David Rahman.

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Rahman, D. The mindset of resilience in dentistry. BDJ In Pract 36, 19–21 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41404-023-2150-3

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