Dental hygienist Anna Middleton reflects on the pressures facing dental professionals today and the importance of open conversations around mental health.
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Nearly two thirds (63%) of dental professionals report feeling frequently burnt out and exhausted, while nearly one in five (18%) describe their mental wellbeing as “of concern”. These alarming statistics come from a recent Dental Protection survey of more than 1,600 UK dental professionals across the UK, revealing a profession under significant strain.
Participants – including dentists, dental hygienists, therapists, and nurses – shared how staff shortages, long hours, and the relentless pressure to meet NHS targets are taking a toll on not only their work, but on their mental health.
For Anna Middleton, a dental hygienist and therapist, these results come as no surprise. They reflect the challenges she sees daily and has experienced herself. In this article, Anna speaks candidly on the emotional toll of burnout, the importance of breaking the silence around mental health, and how both personal resilience and professional support have helped her navigate the demands of the job.
"When I read that nearly two-thirds of dental professionals are frequently burnt out and exhausted, I wasn’t shocked. I felt seen. Like so many of us, I’ve experienced the toll of long hours, high expectations, and the emotional labour that comes with caring for others. Burnout in dentistry isn’t just about physical fatigue – it’s emotional, mental, and often deeply personal.
I vividly remember the first time I realised I was burnt out. It wasn’t a dramatic collapse, but a slow erosion of joy. I became withdrawn, was running on autopilot, and found it increasingly difficult to connect with patients and colleagues. I was functioning – but I wasn’t thriving. That’s when I knew something had to change.
What makes it harder is that, in our profession, there’s often an unspoken expectation to ‘just get on with it’. We are caregivers, perfectionists, often self-employed – and vulnerability can feel like a weakness. But it’s not. It’s a strength. The moment I started speaking more openly about how I was feeling, I realised I wasn’t alone. Conversations around mental health are increasing, but we still have a way to go in truly normalising them.
Managing my wellbeing now is all about boundaries and balance. That means saying ‘no’ when I need to, prioritising rest, and making space for the things that nourish me - whether that’s exercise, time with loved ones, or simply switching off from the digital noise. Running my own business has given me the flexibility to shape my schedule, but it also demands discipline. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
The landscape of our profession is evolving. With Direct Access and the recent legislative changes in the UK allowing dental hygienists and therapists to supply and administer specific prescription-only medicines, our responsibilities are growing. This progress is exciting – but it also brings additional pressures. We must be more intentional in how we protect ourselves from overload: by setting professional boundaries, embracing peer support, and asking for help when needed.
One of the most important things in my journey has been having the right support network. I’m grateful to the mentors and colleagues who’ve helped me navigate challenging times. I’m also deeply appreciative of the support I’ve received from Dental Protection throughout my career. Their wellbeing resources – including confidential counselling with Lyra, webinars, podcasts, and a 50% discount on the Portal Premium wellbeing app – have been invaluable. Knowing that confidential, professional help is available has made a real difference.
To anyone entering the profession, or those who feel they’re barely keeping their head above water, please know this: your wellbeing matters. This work is important – but so are you. Burnout doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human. Reach out, speak to someone, make use of the support that’s available. And remember: taking care of yourself isn’t selfish – it’s essential.
Let’s continue these conversations. Let’s look out for each other. And let’s build a profession that’s not only clinically excellent, but mentally resilient too."
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Dental Protection, "Two-thirds of dental professionals "burnt out and exhausted"