The South Dakota Dental Association’s annual session is a highly anticipated event for dental professionals, and I had the privilege of attending again this year.
I truly enjoy and appreciate the rich discussions I had with dentists, team members and vendors. We engaged in meaningful discussions, sharing personal experiences and insights into the challenges those in the dental industry face.
I had the privilege of presenting to clinic managers on building a culture of wellbeing as a pivotal strategy for attracting and retaining talented team members. I facilitated a robust discussion on the Five Essentials for Workplace Mental Health from the Surgeon Generals’ Framework. By understanding and implementing these essentials, clinics can foster a supportive environment that prioritizes the mental health and wellbeing of their staff.
As a vendor, I had the opportunity to interact with dentists and team members on various topics related to wellbeing. I discussed the significance of providing wellbeing workshops at clinics, which can offer valuable support to dental professionals. Additionally, I shared information about the Be Well Program, a collaborative effort between the SD Dental Association, the SD Dental Board and the SD Dental Foundation. This program aims to enhance emotional wellbeing and promote teamwork within the dental community.
Another notable aspect of the event was my presentation to the board of trustees and foundation board. I shed light on the mental health and wellbeing trends observed among dentists and their teams throughout the state. One recurring concern highlighted during this discussion was the isolation experienced by rural dentists. We explored strategies to empower these professionals in transforming their practices, especially in light of challenges brought on by the pandemic.
I feel fortunate to be part of a state that values and invests in emotional wellbeing. The joint sponsorship of the Be Well Program by the SD Dental Association, the SD Dental Board and the SD Dental Foundation is a testament to this commitment. Such collaborative efforts are crucial in creating a supportive environment that prioritizes the mental health of dental professionals.
Attending the South Dakota Dental Association’s annual session was an enriching experience. The discussions, presentations and interactions centered around well being highlighted the importance of self-care in patient care. It reinforced the notion that prioritizing the mental health and wellbeing of dental professionals not only benefits them individually but also contributes to providing better care to patients.
If you’re a dental professional or part of a dental team and would like to learn more about wellbeing tips and strategies, feel free to reach out to me. Together, we can explore ways to promote a healthier and more fulfilling professional journey. Self-care is an essential aspect of being able to provide the best care to others.
