The Impact of Chronic Occupational Exposure to Pain on Dentists’ Mental Health

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the psychological impact of chronic occupational exposure to patient pain on dentists’ mental health. This qualitative study employed a phenomenological research design to investigate dentists’ lived experiences related to chronic exposure to patient pain. A total of 27 dentists from diverse countries were recruited through online announcements, and data were collected via semi-structured video call interviews. Theoretical saturation determined the sample size, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of recurring themes. Interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis, and NVivo software facilitated the coding and identification of patterns related to emotional strain, coping strategies, and professional challenges. The results indicated that chronic exposure to patient pain led to significant emotional exhaustion, burnout, and compassion fatigue, with many participants reporting psychosomatic symptoms such as headaches, sleep disturbances, and muscle tension. The stigma surrounding mental health in the dental profession contributed to reluctance in seeking psychological support. Workplace coping mechanisms, including peer support, mindfulness, and professional counseling, emerged as protective factors against burnout, although access to such resources varied. Ethical dilemmas, particularly in pain management and fear of malpractice litigation, further exacerbated psychological distress. Participants described struggling to balance empathy with professional detachment, leading to moral distress and emotional suppression in their clinical practice. Chronic occupational exposure to patient pain has profound psychological implications for dentists, increasing their risk of emotional exhaustion and professional burnout. Addressing mental health challenges in dentistry requires institutional changes, including improved access to mental health resources, peer support programs, and stress management training. Recognizing the emotional toll of pain management in dental practice is essential for sustaining the well-being of practitioners and ensuring high-quality patient care.