Dentists are NOT the easiest people to get along with. We have high expectations for ourselves. Many dentists complete residencies (Yes, plural!), and after mastery of dentistry, seek excellence in business, fitness, and other personal pursuits. We are exquisitely detail-oriented. We focus on the tenths of the millimeter in our crown preparations. Dentists are organized and methodical, approaching life in a planned and systematic manner. It's no surprise that dentistry attracts obsessive-compulsive personalities - those are the skills that make for a competent clinician!
Yet, every strength is a weakness in a corresponding area. Unrealistic expectations can cause disappointment, depression and performance anxiety. Wanting to be the best in multiple arenas will spread our resources thin. When are so focused on details, we lose sight of the big picture and larger themes. Systems allows the brain to relax, but this rigidity can cause conflict with other individuals. How can we identify our natural tendencies and learn to mitigate them?
Expectations
My first six months of prosthodontic residency were characterized by self-doubt. I felt like an imposter, waiting to be exposed and asked to leave the residency for my lack of background knowledge and multiple mistakes. I kept my dental license, and DEA renewed and active in the seemingly real possibility that this would happen. My relief was palpable at my first evaluation when my director advised me that I was doing well! While I had obsessed over my mistakes, I had neglected my many more areas of growth and improvement.
Lesson: Don't be so hard on yourself. Ask for feedback regularly to manage your personal expectations and align them with what is realistic for your level of training. Focus on how far you've come and what you have accomplished to keep those lofty expectations in check.
NV: We will discuss achievement and organization, and lessons I have learned during this first year.
- CTT, DDS
Sources:
Lang-Runtz H. Stress in dentistry: it can kill you. J Can Dent Assn 1984;50:539–41.
Personal Experience
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