Whether you’re new to dentistry or a seasoned veteran, being happy in your career (and your life) is essential to longevity and peace of mind. Take a quick personal assessment:
- Are you happy?
- Are you content?
- Are you stressed?
- Do you feel valued?
- Are you a sunny-side up person?
- Are you a worrier?
- Do you like what you do?
Dental clinicians are in the smile business, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to the struggles of life. We’ve compiled some great articles from DentistryIQ, RDH, and Dental Economics that have suggestions to help make your life better, so you can help your patients have better lives too.
Manage your health
Health comes first. Think good sleep, healthy lifestyle habits, and safe exercising. Health isn’t just a one-time project; you’re in it for life. You can make systemic health a priority using the scientific advancements we have at our disposal. Here are some tips:
- Ouch! What’s wrong with my hands?
- 8 safe and effective exercises
- 5 myths of strength training
- Exercises that might cause more harm than good
- Triple threat: 3 signs you might have sleep apnea
Manage your mood
To be able to enjoy life, you must be happy within. That includes mood, outlook, and general well-being enhanced with meditation, yoga (in your chair!), mental timeouts, and even just deep breaths. If your mood is affecting your work or personal life, there’s help—you’re not alone. Here are some tips for a healthier outlook that will have positive effects on the rest of your life:
- Wellness 101 for new dental hygienists
- Promoting health and wellness throughout your career
- 5 things to know about your body before practicing dental hygiene
- Dentistry is hard. It’s OK to ask for help
Manage your workspace
We spend too much of our lives at work to be uncomfortable or in pain. Dental professionals are particularly prone to musculoskeletal disorders on the job. By focusing on ergonomics, overall health, and workspace customizations, you’ll be able to practice longer and more comfortably. Here are some tips to make your work area fit you and your needs:
- Trapezius myalgia can make dentistry a pain in the neck—or head
- Ergonomic loupes: Your key to practicing smarter
- How hygienists can avoid the hunchback
- Saddle stools: Finding that perfect fit
- The truth about dental instrument sharpening
- 5 ways to stay healthy on the job (that you should already be doing)
Managing your health, your mood, and your workspace will lead to a healthier mind, healthier body, and healthier outlook. Make time to make your life better.
Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Clinical Insights newsletter, a publication of the Endeavor Business Media Dental Group. Read more articles and subscribe.
