A survey has found that over one third of dental hygienists (35%) and 30% of dental therapists are unable to take breaks during the day to eat or drink.
In addition, around 32% of hygienists and 38% of therapists said the impact of staff shortages on the delivery of quality care is affecting their mental health.
This comes after Dental Protection undertook a survey with over 1,300 UK dental professionals.
The survey also found that:
- Some 42% of dental therapists and 28% of dental hygienists worry about the impact of exhaustion or burnout on patient care
- Around 30% of dental therapists and 35% of dental hygienists are not able to take breaks during the day to eat and/or drink
- And some 38% of dental therapists and 32% of dental hygienists worry about the impact of staff shortages on the delivery of quality care.
One of the survey participants commented: ‘Dental hygienists are expected to be able to deliver high quality care in 20-minute appointments.’
Another also said: ‘The job is no longer about providing patient care. It’s now about making sure we tick every box so we meet targets set. The pressure to deliver this care while we are so busy, see patients double-booked or sit and waits, it’s enormous and I have considered moving professions’.
‘Recipe for disaster’
Lauren Lennon is a dental therapist based in Manchester. Commenting on the survey results, she said: ‘It is genuinely concerning to come across statistics like this. Especially in an era in which mental health receives heightened emphasis across all areas of our lives – and the dental field is notorious for high burnout rates!
‘Taking breaks is essential for creating a work-life balance. It’s not just about grabbing a quick bite; it’s about maintaining physical and mental health.
‘Not having the opportunity to eat during your workday is a recipe for disaster, potentially leading to fatigue, decreased performance, and adverse health effects. This situation shows the urgent need for change to cultivate a more supportive and sustainable working environment for healthcare professionals in the dental field.
‘By addressing staff shortages and promoting a better workplace culture we are enhancing job satisfaction, and ultimately ensuring dental care professionals can continue providing quality care to patients while safeguarding their own health and happiness.’
What are your thoughts on these statistics? Are you unable to take breaks? Get in touch: [email protected].
