Revitalizing Dental Careers: Evidence-Based Approaches to Mitigate Burnout and Enhance Work Engagement Among Dental Professionals

Abstract

Purpose. This phenomenological study explored the lived experience of engaged general dentists in Southern California, focusing on the job resources they use to maintain work engagement and prevent burnout. This study aimed to understand how dentists balance workplace demands with supportive resources to sustain long-term career satisfaction.

Conceptual Framework. Guided by the job demands-resources (JD-R) model, this study examined how workplace stressors (job demands) and support systems (resources) influence burnout, engagement, and professional fulfillment.

Methodology. A qualitative phenomenological design was used to analyze the experience of 10 engaged dentists in Southern California with at least 5 years of experience. Participants were selected purposefully, and data were collected through one-on-one, semi-structured interviews to gain insight into their perspectives on maintaining engagement and well-being.

Findings and Conclusion. Three key themes related to how dentists integrate resources to balance professional demands emerged: (a) cognitive reframing, (b) professional resources, and (c) personal resources. The review of interview transcripts led to 15 codes, all supported by participant narratives, illustrating the essential role of mental strategies, workplace support, and personal well-being in sustaining engagement.

Recommendations. This study highlights the importance of professional and personal resources in preventing burnout and fostering long-term career satisfaction in dentistry. Future research should expand these themes through diverse methodologies to refine best practices for supporting dentists’ mental health, engagement, and professional fulfillment.