UK Dentists Face Burnout and Mental Health Challenges

Key Takeaways:

• 63% of dental professionals report frequent burnout and exhaustion.
• 50% feel pressured to take on extra work, while 48% feel disillusioned.
• Staff shortages, NHS targets, and financial concerns exacerbate stress.
• Anonymous comments highlight severe mental health struggles, including suicidal thoughts.
• Dental Protection calls for NHS contract reform and GDC improvements to support the profession.

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High Levels of Burnout Among Dental Professionals

UK: A recent survey conducted by Dental Protection reveals that nearly two-thirds (63%) of UK dental professionals frequently experience burnout and exhaustion. Additionally, one in five (18%) describe their wellbeing as “of concern.” The survey, which gathered responses from over 1,600 dental professionals, highlights the significant pressures facing the industry.

Half of the respondents (50%) reported feeling under pressure to take on additional work, while 48% expressed feelings of disillusionment. These figures underscore the growing challenges within the profession, particularly when it comes to balancing patient care with personal wellbeing.

Yvonne Shaw, deputy dental director at Dental Protection, commented on the findings: “It is troubling, though unfortunately not surprising, to see that such a high proportion of dental professionals are burnt out and exhausted, and the degree to which their mental wellbeing is compromised.”

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Root Causes of Stress in Dentistry

The survey’s anonymous comments shed light on the systemic issues contributing to these challenges. Many participants cited excessive working hours driven by “unmanageable demand” for NHS appointments. Staff shortages, a target-driven culture, and financial pressures due to inadequate government reimbursement rates for NHS treatment were also recurring themes.

One respondent shared: “I care about my patients and really try to do my best by them, but I push myself and my wellbeing to the side to try to do this.” Another highlighted the lack of support for self-employed practitioners: “There is no support as a self-employed person so there is no choice whether to work or not. The dental profession is a very difficult profession to operate in when feeling unwell physically or mentally.”

These accounts paint a stark picture of the pressures faced by dental professionals. For some, the strain has become unbearable. One participant confessed: “I have thought about suicide many times. NHS dentistry needs reform and quickly.”

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Calls for Systemic Reforms

Dental Protection has emphasized the need for systemic changes to address these issues. Yvonne Shaw reiterated the organization’s commitment to advocating for reforms, stating: “We will continue to campaign for the delivery of key reforms that we know could benefit dental professionals’ wellbeing, practice and their patients.”

Among the proposed solutions is NHS contract reform, which Shaw described as essential for alleviating the pressures faced by dental teams. She noted: “The government is expected to set out a 10-year NHS strategy this year and a key plank must be providing a clear timetable for NHS contract reform.”

Reform of the General Dental Council (GDC) was also highlighted as a priority. While the GDC introduced improvements in 2024 to address the impact of investigations on dental professionals’ mental wellbeing, Shaw believes further action is needed. “We would also like to see the government take steps to ensure GDC reform is not at the back of the queue as it progresses wider regulatory reform,” she added.

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Support Services for Dental Professionals

In the meantime, Dental Protection is urging members to utilize available support services. Shaw encouraged those struggling with mental wellbeing to access the organization’s confidential counselling service, which offers both telephone support and face-to-face sessions.

“Without early support, these issues can lead to dental professionals needing extended time off work or leaving dentistry altogether,” Shaw warned. By addressing mental health concerns proactively, Dental Protection aims to mitigate the long-term impact on both individuals and the profession as a whole.

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A Profession in Crisis

The survey results serve as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing dental professionals today. From overwhelming workloads to financial instability, the factors contributing to burnout are deeply entrenched in the current system. As one respondent aptly summarized: “NHS system should be overhauled so dentists don’t feel pressured to work in what is effectively a rat race chasing targets.”

While reforms may take time, the immediate focus must be on supporting those already struggling. By amplifying these voices and advocating for meaningful change, organizations like Dental Protection aim to create a more sustainable future for the profession.