Hafeez Ahmed, BDS, FDS, MRD, MSc, MClinDent, DGDP, is a periodontist in private practice in Royal Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, England, with more than 30 years of experience. He is author of the book The Philosophy Fridge: Bad Apples, Soggy Gums, Rotting Teeth and co-author of the book The Anxiety Bureau, due out this summer, which is aimed at teenagers and presents the key psychological concepts around their new perspective on anxiety in a way that is easy to understand. Ahmed can be reached at binswoodhousedentalpractice@btinternet.com.
As dentistry focuses more on treating the patient and not just the mouth, clinicians must balance recognizing the links between oral and systemic health with practicing within their professional competence.
As burnout and mental health challenges rise across the dental workforce, a new perspective suggests anxiety may be an adaptive signal; one that, when properly understood and integrated, can strengthen resilience, decision-making, and…
With rising burnout among oral health professionals, a new perspective on anxiety may offer a path toward resilience, balance, and long-term wellbeing.