Me, we, they: identifying the key stressors affecting the dental team

Abstract

Introduction The mental health and wellbeing of the dental workforce is essential in providing oral healthcare services which are sustainable, safe and of the highest quality. Yet, there remains a lack of qualitative studies exploring the factors that negatively affect wellbeing in dentistry in the United Kingdom, not least in regard to the views and experiences of the wider dental team.Aim The aim of this paper is to identify and explore the factors that contribute to stress and burnout within dental teams as reported through the MINDSET U.K. Survey 2023.Method Qualitative data were collected in an online questionnaire which provided an opportunity for respondents to provide a free-text response. Following an inductive approach, thematic analysis was used to synthesise the findings.Results In total, 1,507 responses were received, of which 287 included a valid free-text response. The sample included 203 dentists, 69 dental care professionals, 13 practice managers/receptionists and two respondents who did not select a professional group. Six themes were identified from the data: workload; NHS system; regulatory compliance, patient complaints and litigation; financial pressures; leadership and management; and self-worth.Conclusion Current reactive approaches to dealing with the mental health and wellbeing of dental healthcare workers are insufficient. Measures need to be urgently developed and implemented to reduce or mitigate the contributing factors at the macro (system) level. These need to be considered as a priority in order to create the working conditions necessary to allow all members of the dental team to develop, flourish and feel valued.

Fig. 1

Quotes from respondents revealing depths of despair

Fig. 2

Quotes from respondents about recommending a career in dentistry