Prioritising wellbeing when starting work as a dentist

Starting your dental foundation training (DFT) is a major milestone, but it also comes with unique challenges that can impact your mental and physical wellbeing.

The transition from university to full-time clinical practice is demanding, and many new dentists find themselves navigating long hours, emotional fatigue, and the pressure to perform.

In a discussion among foundation dentists and wellbeing experts, several key strategies emerged to help new professionals thrive - not just survive - in their early careers.

Set boundaries

One of the most important themes was the need to set boundaries, especially with technology. Many dentists shared how difficult it can be to switch off after a long day, with thoughts of patients and procedures lingering into the night.

Simple practices like avoiding screens before bed, reading or listening to music can help the mind unwind. Creating a wind-down routine and prioritising sleep were highlighted as essential for recovery and resilience.

Take a break

Hydration and micro-breaks were also emphasised. It’s easy to overlook basic needs during a busy clinic day, but scheduling short pauses to drink water, stretch or check in with yourself can make a significant difference.

These moments of mindfulness - whether during a procedure or between patients - help reduce stress and improve focus.

Create a support network

Support networks play a vital role in maintaining wellbeing. Talking to colleagues, nurses, friends, or family about difficult cases or emotional experiences can prevent rumination and promote emotional release.

Dentists often face anxious or angry patients, and the emotional toll can be heavy. Sharing these experiences and receiving reassurance helps build confidence and perspective.

More than dentistry

Exercise and hobbies outside of dentistry were repeatedly mentioned as powerful tools for wellbeing. Joining a running club, attending group fitness classes or simply going for evening walks can provide a sense of community and a mental break from clinical work.

These activities also help cultivate flow states - moments of deep engagement and enjoyment - which are linked to increased happiness and life satisfaction.

Understand yourself

Burnout and imposter syndrome are common among early-career dentists. Recognising the signs - emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and self-doubt - is the first step toward prevention.

During the discussion, dentists shared how they manage these feelings by taking regular breaks, setting realistic expectations, and reminding themselves of their training and achievements. Mindfulness and self-compassion were recommended as effective techniques for reframing negative thoughts and building emotional resilience.

A time for work

Time management is another crucial aspect. Many dentists struggle with work creeping into personal time, especially when clinical notes and treatment planning can be done remotely.

Setting strict boundaries around work hours and scheduling dedicated time for admin tasks helps protect personal time and prevent overload.

How to prioritise wellbeing

Finally, setting wellbeing goals - whether it's improving sleep, exercising regularly, or spending more time outdoors - can provide direction and motivation. These goals should be realistic and flexible, allowing room for growth and adaptation.

Starting work as a dentist is both exciting and challenging. By prioritising wellbeing from the outset, new professionals can build sustainable habits that support their mental health, enhance their clinical performance and foster long-term satisfaction in their careers.

If you’d like to listen to the discussion in full, check out the full playlist on YouTube.