Nilesh Parmar discusses the rise of Facebook groups as an essential outlet for addressing challenges within the dental community, particularly regarding professional struggles and mental wellbeing.
In recent years, these groups have gained popularity as dentistry can often feel isolating. They provide a sense of camaraderie, reminding dentists that they are not alone in their experiences.
The Facebook group I help manage experienced explosive growth during COVID-19, a time when many felt disconnected. During this period, we saw an all-time peak in daily posts and interactions, as dentists supported each other through uncertainty. I believe this was a particularly special moment for the profession, as it reinforced the power of community.
Since then, the group has only continued to grow, often described as a ‘hive mind.’ In dentistry, a problem shared is a problem halved – having access to insights from up to 20,000 fellow professionals makes it an invaluable resource for learning, seeking advice, and navigating difficult situations.
This underscores a broader issue: dentistry is a demanding and often stressful profession, especially with increasing regulatory pressures. Dentists need support, and these online communities provide just that.
Engagement in these groups should be encouraged, as they foster camaraderie, help reduce feelings of isolation, support mental health and offer a platform for open discussion.
The importance of anonymity in Facebook groups
The queries we receive in these groups vary widely. Some are straightforward, such as, ‘Can I use equipment A on patient B?’ or ‘Could you take a look at this X-ray? What do you think?’
However, others are far more complex, involving sensitive topics like workplace bullying or sexual harassment. In such cases, anonymity is crucial, as many members prefer to seek advice without revealing their identity, particularly when colleagues or friends are also part of the group.
This highlights a deeper issue within the profession. The fact that so many dentists feel the need to post anonymously suggests an underlying fear of judgment or criticism. In healthcare, including dentistry, professionals may worry about being ostracised for asking a question that others perceive as basic or unnecessary.
It also reflects a reluctance to admit gaps in knowledge. In a field where confidence and expertise are fundamental to patient care, acknowledging uncertainty can feel daunting. The pressure to appear competent can discourage open discussions, even when collaboration is more vital than ever.
Seeking help should never be seen as a weakness. Dentistry is complex and the profession is constantly evolving, making peer support and shared knowledge invaluable. Unfortunately, fear of judgment often prevents professionals from engaging in open dialogue.
While I wouldn’t necessarily describe it as bullying, discussions in these groups can sometimes escalate into harsh criticism. This is why many members prefer to remain anonymous – it provides a sense of protection while still allowing them to access valuable advice.
However, not all anonymous posts are necessary. Overuse of anonymity can negatively impact group culture, as open discussions help build trust and engagement. Striking the right balance is essential to maintaining a supportive and constructive online community.
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