Sir, based on an FDI World Dental Federation publication, dentists and students face high burnout and mental health risks, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic.1 Stressed work environments contribute, with signs appearing even during studies. The FDI urged dental associations and schools to take action: raise awareness, create accessible support like counselling, normalise mental health discussions in workplaces, and provide training on self-care and supporting colleagues. Schools should offer support resources and equip students with mental wellbeing skills for their careers. More research on burnout and mental health in dentistry is needed.1

A recent dental study investigated burnout and depression in Turkish dentists.2 Interestingly, dentists working in Oral and Dental Health Centers reported feeling more emotionally drained compared to those in private clinics or universities. Factors such as age or experience did not seem to influence burnout or depression. The study suggests that improving work environments in Oral and Dental Health Centers could be key to reducing burnout among dentists.

Castro et al. explored how COVID-19 impacted burnout with over 300 dentists answering questions about burnout, work factors, and pandemic worries.3 The study found dentists who felt unprepared or scared of catching the virus were more likely to experience burnout. Interestingly, age, working in the public sector, and private education also played a role.

Another study aimed to assess burnout, a state of emotional exhaustion and depersonalisation, among US dental faculty with under ten years in academia.4 They found that 13.46% of the 52 respondents exhibited a ‘burnout' profile. The data suggested higher feelings of burnout at the nine-year mark, particularly among those over 44-year-olds with increased administrative duties. Early identification of burnout factors and implementing reduction strategies were crucial for enhancing faculty productivity and satisfaction.