Many dental professionals will agree that providing patients with high-quality care on a daily basis is demanding. Dentistry offers a number of fantastic opportunities, but it is not without its challenges. Without a properly managed work life balance, a dentist’s work can become stressful, causing them to feel overwhelmed and, eventually, burnt-out.[i] As such, it’s important to understand why burn-out occurs, what it is, and techniques that might help prevent it.

What is burn-out?

According to the World Health Organization,[ii] “burn-out is a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.” Those with burn-out may lack energy, feel negative towards their job, and perceive their professional worth as low.[iii] Work which puts a person under high pressure is likely to lead to burn-out, especially if this is not effectively managed. Recent studies suggest that dentists face physical and emotional problems related to stress.[iv] These include high rates of cardiovascular disease, ulcers, colitis, hypertension, lower back pain, eye strain, alcoholism, drug addiction, depression, and suicide.[v]

In a profession which is very aware of the effects that stress and anxiety have on their patients, it’s important that dentists consider the ways they manage their own stress – helping to improve their own health, prevent burn-out, and allow them to provide their patients better care.

Managing stress and preventing burn-out

Dentists often lead very busy lives, with long days in the practice sometimes making it feel impossible to take time for themselves. But, in order to do their best work, dentists must consider the ways they can look after their own health and manage stress. So, how can they do this?

Exercise

While it might feel difficult to make time to exercise regularly, saving just half an hour per day to exercise can offer the body a wide range of mental and physical benefits.[vi] Working out boosts serotonin and endorphin levels, triggering a positive feeling,[vii] and it provides a dedicated break from work. Exercising regularly doesn’t have to mean extreme sports, but can be tailored to the individual’s preferences – attend classes at the gym, go for early morning runs, or even try yoga (a great tool for stress management!). For me, personally, I have been addicted to Peloton and find time to do a 30-minute ride on a daily basis. As a result, I feel I have more energy, and I have no aches and pains.

Sleep

Sleep is crucial for recovery, and can help people live longer and healthier lives.[viii] Experts recommend that most adults get between seven and nine hours per night[ix] for a positive impact on the heart and circulatory system, metabolism, respiratory system, and immune system.[x] However, it’s not only the quantity of sleep that’s important, but the quality too. Interrupted sleep can be detrimental to health, with those who have sleep apnoea experiencing multiple interruptions to deep sleep stages every night, contributing to anxiety and depression, weight gain, and heart disease.[xi] As such, it’s important to consider the quality of sleep, and aim to get a good night’s sleep to experience its full benefits. Books I have read and recommend to others on this are “Sleep Smarter” by Shawn Stevenson and “Why We Sleep” by Matthew Walker.

Diet

Eating a balanced diet is essential for enabling the body to perform optimally.[xii] While it may be more convenient to eat fast food between patients, it is beneficial to choose a healthier option at lunch time which provides the energy needed to power the rest of the day.[xiii] This is also a great opportunity to step outside for fresh air, and give yourself a break in the day.

The value of community in dentistry

An aspect of the work that many dentists may not think contributes to burn-out is isolation and confinement. While this comes with the nature of the job, lots of time spent alone in the surgery carrying out intricate and meticulous procedures can be mentally and physically challenging. It can lead to strain on the body and fatigue, making regular breaks all the more important. Much time spent alone can also take its toll. Many dentists do not have the same opportunities as other professionals to share and solve problems with colleagues – with the rise of social media dentistry exacerbating a competitive side of the profession.[xiv]

As such, finding a community of professionals can be incredibly beneficial. The Association of Dental Implantology (ADI) is ideal for those with a special interest in implants at any stage in their careers. The Association encourages socialisation, networking, and education – supporting individual growth and learning. The ADI offers its members free attendance to the Members National Forum, discounted rates at ADI events, and access to the ADI Members-only Facebook Group – where dentists can ask the community for advice.

In order to provide the best care to patients, dentists must first take care of themselves. Burn-out can lead to low job satisfaction, and leave dentists feeling distant from their work, so avoiding this is essential. By enriching both their work and personal lives, setting achievable and reasonable goals, continuing education, and spending time with others, levels of stress may be reduced.

For more information, please visit www.adi.org.uk

[i] https://www.colgateprofessional.com.au/dentist-resources/advocates-for-oral-health/burnout-and-self-care-in-dentistry#

[ii] https://www.who.int/news/item/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases

[iii] https://www.who.int/news/item/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases

[iv] https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/features/stress-in-dentistry-it-could-kill-you/

[v] https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/features/stress-in-dentistry-it-could-kill-you/

[vi] https://www.colgateprofessional.com.au/dentist-resources/advocates-for-oral-health/burnout-and-self-care-in-dentistry#

[vii] https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/blogs/5-top-self-care-tips-for-dentists-dealing-with-stress/

[viii] https://askthedentist.com/8-hour-paradox/

[ix] https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep/how-much-sleep

[x] https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep/why-sleep-important

[xi] https://askthedentist.com/8-hour-paradox/

[xii] https://www.colgateprofessional.com.au/dentist-resources/advocates-for-oral-health/burnout-and-self-care-in-dentistry#

[xiii] https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/blogs/5-top-self-care-tips-for-dentists-dealing-with-stress/

[xiv] https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/features/stress-in-dentistry-it-could-kill-you/

If you’re looking to grow your business, but sustaining in-house milling and design isn’t feasible right now, outsource to Createch Medical.

Createch Medical, in partnership with the Straumann Group, is a direct-to-lab milling service for restoring implant prostheses that allows you to confidently expand capacity without any additional investment. Focus on providing an outstanding service to clients, and let Createch Medical take care of the rest. You can access a range of implant framework solutions, manufactured with Selective Laser Melting (SLM).

Their facilities utilise ultra-precision measuring devices and five-axis high-precision milling machines. The results are high-grade products that will satisfy your clients and provide a fantastic performance.

For peace of mind, you’ll also receive a Createch Excellence warranty card with every product, to certify its quality.

Find out more today by getting in touch with the team.

 Register for your account with Createch Medical at http://www.createchmedical.com/en/file-sending/login-registro/

For more information on the Createch Medical direct-to-lab milling service from the Straumann Group, visit https://www.straumann.com/gb/en/dental-professionals/products-and-solutions/implant-borne-prosthetics/products/createch-medical.html

For any dentists looking to permanently move to the UK from overseas, or those who have already, finding the right job is an essential part of a successful experience. Though true for any clinician, navigating the additional challenges that can arise when relocating means that the team around you and the support available is even more important.

Though she moved to the UK in 2016, Dr Despoina Christidou realised in the following years just how crucial the team she worked within was for her job satisfaction. Here she shares her story:

“I qualified from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, and practised dentistry in the country for the next 31 years, including in my own private practice. However, when my personal circumstances changed and challenges arose with the organisation, I took this as an opportunity to try something completely different.

“I had been thinking about relocating for some time and Scotland was really appealing. I was interested in the history of the country and both the scenery and people made the move attractive. I moved to Scotland almost 9 years ago now and I have not been disappointed.  

“At the time that I relocated, the greatest challenge was learning all the new regulations and requirements. I had not been aware of several rules until working in a UK dental practice so there was a steep learning curve in the first 6 months. During this and the next few years, I learnt exactly what it is that I value most in the places that I work. It’s not the instruments, the technologies or the look of practice that makes the biggest difference for me – though these are still important – it’s the team around me.”

In 2023, Despoina was looking for the next step to further her career in Scotland. This is when she turned to Clyde Munro.

“When I came across a vacancy at KF Dental in Edinburgh with Clyde Munro, I was instantly interested,” she continues. “My initial impression and further research suggested it would be a great place to work, so I took my chances and moved over – and I’m very happy that I did!

“The team has been brilliant. I really appreciate the way that the practice manager runs the practice and helps everyone who works there. There is always support available and motivation for all the team; I love that. I have also been checking the Training Academy courses as I am very keen to make the most of these, with different topics covered throughout the year.”

For any clinicians thinking about permanently moving to the UK, or those who have already done so and are considering their job options, Despoina emphasises the importance of the team once again:

“It’s essential to look for a good team in the practice and the wider organisation to support you, motivate you and help you accomplish everything that you want to. I have found this to be true across Clyde Munro so I would certainly recommend them to colleagues.

“I’d also like to express how good it is living in Scotland. You have the opportunity to do many things and explore everything the country has to offer around work!”

If you are new to the UK and looking to work as a dentist, Clyde Munro understands the intricacies that come with relocating from overseas. In practice, we provide the specific training necessary for working within dentistry in Scotland. We offer webinars to update your knowledge and ensure access to mentors who can assist with clinical cases. Not only do they provide one-to-one support and case discussions, but they also supervise your professional development to ensure you’re on the right track. In addition, relevant information and support is offered as clinicians become familiar with the SDR system in Scotland, which is very different to the working structure for dentists in other countries.

Outside the practice, Clyde Munro provides assistance with opening a Scottish bank account, finding appropriate accommodation and even sourcing hire cars to help clinicians get settled.

Whether you are new to the UK or searching for your next UK-based role, find out how Clyde Munro could help you enjoy the next chapter of your life.

Find out more about the career opportunities and vacancies available with

Clyde Munro today at careers.clydemunrodental.com.

As with any aspect of life, it can feel comfortable to stick to what you know. This can apply to your work, using the same equipment, techniques, and treatment types out of habit or convenience, even when there might be a better, more efficient way of doing things. While it can come with a learning curve in some cases, embracing the digital dental revolution presents a number of benefits to the clinician, their dental team, and their patients. Digital chairside dentistry allows the clinician to offer more services to their patients, more quickly, thanks to streamlined workflows.

Adopting this type of software also allows practitioners to future-proof their dental practice, both by integrating modern technology, and training their dental team to operate digital equipment and software, preparing for future digital dentistry.

Enhanced communication

Spare your patients the discomfort of conventional impression taking when you utilise an intraoral scanner in your practice. They are able to map out and create a three-dimensional model of the patient’s anatomy, without the need for using traditional impression materials, waiting for impressions to set, or causing the patient any discomfort or anxiety. Intraoral scanners are able to produce highly accurate representations of a patient’s mouth, while eliminating the risk of human error.[i]

The scans produced using this type of dental impression are also a fantastic tool for communication. This means that clinicians can effectively explain a patient’s situation, allowing them to understand any issues they have, and describe any potential treatment plans. In doing this, your practice will likely see a rise in case acceptance as patients have a better understanding of the treatment they need. Additionally, clinicians can more effectively communicate with other professionals quickly, using accurate visual data.[ii]

Reliability in treatment planning

Employing digital software can also help you to better plan treatment, and share with colleagues and dental technicians where needed. Additionally, with the implementation of a 3D printer, for example, you are able to carry out a number of additional services within your own practice.

In a similar way to conventional impression taking, manual model making can generate inconsistencies due to human error. However, by using a 3D printer to produce dental appliances, you can improve accuracy.[iii]Research suggests that 3D printed models can be truer to the original reference when compared to conventional stone casts, making them preferable in many clinical scenarios.[iv] 3D printers also improve reproducibility,[v] helping to save time, reduce the risk of errors, and improve the experience for patients. This is perfect for reliable and predictable treatment when providing things like dentures and night guards, for example. 3D printers can provide practices with accuracy, efficiency, and precision which can contribute to improved treatment outcomes and an increase in patient satisfaction – giving your practice a boost.

Quality care from start to finish

For practices who would like to offer complete workflows from within the practice, and even the same appointment, a chairside milling machine may be the ideal option. This allows clinicians to scan the patient, plan the restoration, and provide the restoration very quickly.[vi] This means that, should a patient require a zirconia crown, for example, they can expect a faster service, without having to wait in between appointments for manufacture in a dental lab. As this chairside equipment becomes more accessible for some, clinicians are able to carry out more treatment in house, for greater flexibility and shorter treatment times where appropriate.

For clinicians who are ready to embrace the digital revolution, and introduce chairside CAD/CAM workflows into their practice, Clark Dental offers professionals the cutting-edge Cerec Primescan intraoral scanner, Primeprint 3D printer and the Primemill milling machine. The equipment works together to offer a seamless digital experience. With these systems you can create accurate, high-grade surgical guides for guided implant treatment and even produce zirconia restorations, in-house. Clark Dental also ensures that you are adequately supported, for total peace of mind. Additionally, practices are still able to collaborate with dental labs when handling complex cases to ensure the very best outcomes.

As digital dentistry continues to offer clinicians more benefits, and become more user friendly, there has never been a better time to step out of your comfort zone, and into the future. By mastering one aspect of the digital chairside workflow at a time, perhaps beginning with intraoral scanning, then 3D printing, for example, the process becomes very easy, and soon enough you’ll be able to offer patients a unique treatment experience. This level of customisability, communication, and convenience will enable you to attract new patients, and offer your existing ones a more streamlined and reliable treatment experience.

For more information call Clark Dental on 01268 733 146, email

info@clarkdental.co.uk or visit www.clarkdental.co.uk

STUART CLARK

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Having grown up within dentistry, Stuart has developed an unparalleled understanding of the industry. He is a technical specialist in digital imaging, pulling on his extensive experience as a Technical Director for Schick Technologies. Stuart is also an expert auto-CAD surgery designer and dental equipment engineer.

[i] Gurgurova, G., M. Grancharov, and G. Yordanova-Kostova. “ADVANTAGES OF INTRAORAL SCANNING IN ORTHODONTICS.”

[ii] Gurgurova, G., M. Grancharov, and G. Yordanova-Kostova. “ADVANTAGES OF INTRAORAL SCANNING IN ORTHODONTICS.”

[iii] Tas, Hilin, et al. “Evaluation of the accuracy of dental casts manufactured with 3D printing technique in the All-on-4 treatment concept.” The Journal of Advanced Prosthodontics 14.6 (2022): 379.

[iv] Tas, Hilin, et al. “Evaluation of the accuracy of dental casts manufactured with 3D printing technique in the All-on-4 treatment concept.” The Journal of Advanced Prosthodontics 14.6 (2022): 379.

[v] Tsolakis, Ioannis A., et al. “Comparison in terms of accuracy between DLP and LCD printing technology for dental model printing.” Dentistry Journal 10.10 (2022): 181.

[vi] Gupta, Gaurav, et al. “Customized Zirconia Crown in Pediatric Dentistry From Concept to Reality.” Avicenna Journal of Dental Research 15.1 (2023): 27-31.