Self-Perceived Sources of Stress and Burnout Determinants in Dentistry - A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction. In recent decades, under the influence of various factors, there has been a serious increase in psycho-emotional tension and stress. Furthermore, considering unprecedented times of global pandemic threat, stress levels can rise significantly. Dental profession is physically and mentally stressful as dentists encounter a number of occupational hazards of a biological, chemical, physical, and psycho-emotional nature. Objective. The current review paper aimed to answer the question: what are the most important stressors and burnout determinants in daily dental practice? Materials and Methods. The Web of Science Core Collection database was searched for according to the PRISMA guidelines in September 2022. Empirical studies - observational, experimental, cross-sectional, and longitudinal studies published in English were considered for inclusion. Results. The initial search yielded 355 articles. Eighteen studies met inclusion criteria and were considered for the final analysis. Two articles reported identical data; therefore, they were not included in the current report. Finally, this review presented 16 reports with a total of 8, 824 subjects. Conclusions. Both long-term and short-term stress can cause negative effects on practitioner’s physical, mental, and emotional functioning. As healthcare providers, dentists should be aware of these risk factors, as well as they need to be sufficiently motivated to know the risks and inconveniences of their profession, learning effective strategies how to deal with adverse conditions, factors, and relationships. Providing information on this issue will contribute to increasing dentists’ awareness and improving their personal and professional performance.