Managing Stress, Distress and Coping Strategies in Dentistry

Abstract

Background: Dysfunctional social behavior deriving from work distress is common among practicing dentists. 1.2 Aim: This paper appraises prevalent stressors for practicing dentists, not only in North America, but also in dental practices in all other continents. This critique aims to describe from a dentists’ viewpoint, what is wrong, why it is wrong and what can be done about it. Deconstruction of stressors: Among the main reasons are misdirected motivations, unfulfilled performances, inadequate coping strategies, unsatisfied needs and frustrations arising from unreasonable expectations. Social changes, financial constructs and professional stressors can all play a part. Discussion: Abuse by financiers, patients and staff, with inadequate skills, muddled management of resources and jumbled attitudes, may precipitate anything from unexplained mood changes to psychotic episodes. These forces may work to convert stress to distress. Concluding remarks: Hopefully this exposition provides answers, novel thinking, fresh insights, orderly approaches, practical skills and coping strategies for dentists to improve their role as health care providers in a community.