Dentistry, self-esteem and criticism

Dentistry is rich in opportunity for professional and personal gratification. Ongoing discussions with dentists, however, reveal increasing unhappiness in the profession, especially among younger practitioners. This observation is corroborated by Dr. H. Adelson, who found that "depression has a serious and adverse effect on the lives of many dentists today." Professional dissatisfactions do not necessarily lead to depression. But evidence shows that certain environmental demands, such as the economy and constraints imposed by insurance companies, are accelerating and subjecting dentists to significant emotional pressures. If these difficulties persist or worsen, a practitioner's self-esteem may be compromised, which in turn can affect negatively how he or she functions inside and outside of the office. It is my view that healthy self-criticism can help bolster the dentist's sense of self-esteem and can work as a prophylaxis against depression.