Developing a mentoring culture in dentistry. Making a difference in a changing world

This paper follows the recent series published in Primary Dental Care on the subject of mentoring. It is intended to place mentoring in a broader societal, professional, ethical and philosophical context. The introduction of the mentoring approach into human affairs in general, and the workplace in particular, is evidence of a fundamental shift both in the way we work together as individuals and in how we view and value ourselves as human beings. This paper reflects on the changes in thinking and attitudes in society that have led to the emergence of mentoring and coaching as elements in the approach of positive psychology. It then seeks to learn from the experience of the adoption of mentoring and coaching in other areas of work and society. It goes on to consider what impact this might have on underlying beliefs and attitudes within the profession of dentistry, and who might become the mentors and the mentees. Finally, it presents mentoring as an expression of the values and the culture of a caring profession seeking to promote the 'good life' both for its patients and for its practitioners.