Managing stress in the dental environment
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Date
2015
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
South African Dental Association
Abstract
Stress is defined as "an imbalance between a perceived
demand (stressor) and a person's perceived ability to cope
with, or to meet, that demand". It is well known that dentists
are subject to a variety of stress-related physical and
emotional problems. In dental practice it may include the
difficulties in managing anxious children, or dealing with
"neurotic", difficult or uncompliant adults. Stress may also
take the form of personal insult if dentists are regarded
as incompetent when compared with their peers, or are
seen as insensitive, inconsiderate and inferior to doctors.
Attempting to stay on schedule in a busy dental practice
is a chronic source of stress. Not receiving commensurate
payment for their services, anxiety about the future and
long working hours may also act as stressors. Stress is
not good for health! It is well known that stress and poor
stress management increase susceptibility and vulnerability
to ill health including cardiovascular disease, ulcers,
colitis, hypertension, lower back pain, eye strain, marital
disharmony, alcoholism, drug addiction, mental depression
and even suicide. How does stress manifest in the
practice? It may result in absenteeism, increased incident
rate, inter-personal aggression, poor quality control, low
productivity, high aggression, low productivity, high turnover,
reduced morale, complaints and litigation.
Description
Keywords
Stress, Management, Dental practice, Dental ethics, Dental professionals
Citation
Naidoo, S. (2015). Managing stress in the dental environment. South African Dental Journal, 70(9): 388 - 389