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Keep moving Busy dentists may feel they do not have the time or energy to exercise, but in such a sedentary career, even simple adaptations can help. This could be as basic as walking to the waiting room to collect and receive patients, going for a walk at lunchtime, or walking to and from the work place.


Making connections Dentistry can be viewed as a rather solitary profession, a factor that does nothing to alleviate stress levels. The clinical working environment is usually relatively small, with an even tighter focus on the patient. Busy dentists often find themselves sitting still for extended periods, with little opportunity to interact with colleagues, even in larger practices. Having worked in a one-surgery practice, I am only too aware of the isolation that can be experienced as a dentist. Seeking out opportunities to regularly speak with other dental


practitioners, such as through peer review or social gatherings, can reduce stress factors and help you maintain an important perspective on day-to-day issues.


Positive moves It is important to remember that we are in control of where we choose to work. Think about what key factors allow you to feel valued and increase satisfaction in your working environment. If any factors are missing, what could reasonably be done to alter this? Would you consider changing to a job which better meets your needs? Such changes may have perceived negative factors such as increased travelling or lower pay, but long term you may be happier in the workplace.


Patient autonomy As dentists we are constantly identifying and diagnosing multiple diseases in our patients, and we will each have our own views on how these should be managed. We must remember that patients have their own perspective and beliefs which will impact on the decisions they make about their treatment and general oral healthcare. We may not always agree with them but it is important that we allow patients to retain ownership of their problems and that we do not take them on as our own.


Time management Effective time management can significantly reduce stress in the workplace. Team work is key, so form a good relationship with the reception staff who organise the appointment book, and with your dental nurse. The more research there is into the causes of job dissatisfaction and occupational stress, the more we can learn to implement the most effective ways of tackling it, both at an individual and organisational level. National schemes such as Investors in People, as well as training and advice provided by the likes of the MDDUS Risk Management team, have helped many dental practices develop effective management systems which address potential stress points in practice and work to reduce stress occurring in the workplace. As dental practitioners, we will inevitably be exposed to stress throughout our working lives. We are all affected by stress differently so it is important that we are able to manage it effectively and aim for fulfilling, valuable and successful professional careers.


Sameera Teli is a dentist and editor of SoundBite


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