Dental hygienist and therapist Anna Middleton has shed light on the growing pressures faced by dental professionals across the UK, emphasizing the urgent need for open dialogue around mental health in the industry. Her reflections follow a recent Dental Protection survey that revealed nearly two-thirds (63%) of dental professionals feel frequently burnt out and exhausted, with nearly one in five (18%) reporting that their mental wellbeing is “of concern.” The findings, based on responses from over 1,600 dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists, therapists, and nurses, underscore a profession under increasing strain from staff shortages, extended working hours, and the ongoing pressure to meet NHS targets.
Middleton, drawing from her own experiences, acknowledged that these statistics reflect the daily reality for many in the field. She spoke candidly about the emotional toll of burnout, describing it not as a sudden collapse but a gradual loss of joy and fulfillment in her work. For her, burnout manifested in detachment, emotional fatigue, and a sense of simply going through the motions. It was only through honest self-reflection and recognizing the need for change that she began to reclaim her sense of purpose.
She highlighted a troubling culture within dentistry, where vulnerability is often seen as a weakness and where professionals are expected to keep moving forward despite their struggles. As a caregiver and often a perfectionist, Middleton noted that it took time and courage to speak openly about her mental health challenges. Yet, she found that when she began these conversations, she discovered a shared experience among her peers and a community ready to support each other. While awareness around mental health is growing, she believes there’s still a long way to go in fully normalizing these discussions within the profession.
Today, Middleton maintains her wellbeing by setting clear boundaries and striving for balance in her personal and professional life. She prioritizes rest, makes time for loved ones, and avoids the constant noise of digital distractions. Running her own business has allowed her some control over her schedule, but it also requires a disciplined approach to self-care. She acknowledges the necessity of replenishing one’s own reserves before being able to care for others effectively.
The profession itself is evolving. With direct access and recent legislative changes granting dental hygienists and therapists the ability to supply and administer certain prescription-only medicines, the scope of practice is expanding. While this progress is welcome, it also introduces new responsibilities and added stress. Middleton emphasized the importance of managing this growth intentionally—by setting firm boundaries, leaning on peer networks, and being willing to ask for help when needed.
Support systems, she said, have been crucial in her own journey. Mentors, colleagues, and organizations like Dental Protection have played a vital role in helping her navigate the challenges of the profession. She credits the wellbeing resources provided by Dental Protection—such as confidential counselling via Lyra, educational webinars, mental health podcasts, and access to a discounted wellbeing app—with helping her manage the pressures of her role more effectively. Knowing that professional, confidential support is readily available has offered her reassurance and relief.
Middleton’s message to those entering the field or currently struggling is clear: your wellbeing matters just as much as the work you do. Burnout does not indicate failure; it is a reminder of one’s humanity. She encourages dental professionals to reach out, utilize available resources, and not to suffer in silence. Self-care, she insists, is not a luxury but a necessity.
By sharing her own story, Middleton hopes to keep the conversation going. She calls on her peers to support one another, advocate for a healthier work culture, and collectively build a profession that values not just clinical excellence but emotional resilience as well.
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