Thriving in dentistry starts with putting yourself first

In the fast-paced world of dentistry, it is easy to neglect the most vital element of your practice: you! The everyday demands of managing patient care, keeping a smooth workflow, and handling unexpected stressors, can affect your wellbeing. Prioritising self-care is not just practical, it is crucial. By focusing on your mental and physical health, you can develop resilience, increase happiness, and provide even better patient care.

Here, we share practical strategies to help you manage stress, integrate self-care into your day, and cultivate a positive mindset to thrive in your career as a dentist.

Establishing healthy boundaries is vital for sustaining work-life balance in dentistry. Learning to say no when necessary is not just empowering but indispensable. 

While it is tempting to take on extra responsibilities, especially when short-staffed, overcommitting can quickly lead to burnout. By being assertive and recognising your limits, you can conserve your energy and reduce workplace stress. Whether postponing a challenging case or declining additional shifts, knowing when to step back can save you from becoming overwhelmed.

Scheduling in personal time is another crucial element to protect your wellbeing. Simple activities such as catching up with friends, taking a walk, or immersing yourself in a hobby can rejuvenate you and enable you to return to work refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges.

Additionally, explore other strategies for enhancing your wellbeing by incorporating goal-setting and self-reflection techniques into your routine.

Mindfulness is a simple yet effective tool that can help dental practitioners manage stress and improve emotional regulation. Even with a packed schedule, incorporating mindfulness into your routine can create the mental space needed to navigate the demands of clinical work. One quick technique is mindful breathing: inhale for four seconds, hold your breath for four seconds, and then exhale for four seconds. In just 16 seconds you can reset your focus and feel more centred.

Integrating small moments of mindfulness throughout your day can lead to significant benefits. Whether you are on a break or commuting, dedicating just five to ten minutes of mindful activities – like walking meditation or deep breathing – can improve your ability to manage pressure, boost your energy levels, and build emotional resilience over time.

Burnout is all too common among dental practitioners, making it crucial to recognise the early signs before they escalate. One valuable but simple strategy is to speak up. Opening up about your challenges or simply checking in with a colleague or supervisor can equip you with the support and guidance you need. 

Kaejenn, a dentist who faced burnout, took the hard step of telling his boss about what he was experiencing. “They actually started guiding me and allowing me to take my time with my patients to build my confidence again,” he said. 

Another key to preventing burnout is designing a daily routine that nurtures mental and physical health. Incorporating mindful practices, regular exercise and scheduled downtime can assist you not just in maintaining your wellbeing but also in enhancing it. These small yet effective actions can have a lasting impact on your overall health.

For further techniques and insights, dive into Dr Kaejenn Tchia’s guide to beating burnout.

You are not alone in navigating these challenges. At Dental Practitioner Support, we are here to listen and guide you through any issues you may face. Explore our resources to discover how we can support your mental health and wellbeing. If you are ready to talk, call us anytime on 1800 377 700. We are here for you, 24/7, offering confidential support whenever you need it.