40% of dentists could quit the NHS by 2028, survey reveals
Up to 40% of dentists could quit the NHS within the next five years, according to a new survey from the Dental Defence Union (DDU).
The study showed that a significant proportion of professionals are considering leaving the NHS due to “intolerable pressures.” More than 80% of dental workers said that workplace pressure has intensified since the pandemic.
The survey of 500 dental professionals revealed that 39% are likely to leave the profession or retire in the next five years. More than 50% have cut their working hours to try to reduce stress.
Six in ten dental workers said that it has become increasingly difficult to maintain relationships with patients and colleagues in the last two years and 90% admitted to feeling ‘worn out’ at the end of the working day. Almost 85% have experienced symptoms of burnout.
The study also showed that dental professionals are using a range of self-help techniques to tackle stress and anxiety, with over 30% suggesting they use strategies, such as practising mindfulness and breathing exercises, and 65% taking breaks in the fresh air to boost their mental well-being.
Around 20% of participants have experienced a safety issue or complaint and 19% reported being abused or threatened. Despite an increase in abuse aimed at dental workers since 2020, 93% of professionals said that patients and colleagues treated them respectfully.
Head of the DDU, John Makin, said that union members are a “resilient bunch” but stressed that “you can only stretch a piece of elastic so far.” Pressures in the workplace are rising and this is contributing to high levels of stress. The DDU is calling for the government to take action to support dental professionals and “put the necessary resources and support in place to reduce delays and meet treatment demand.”
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