Dental Unfiltered Episode 134- Fighting Burnout
Oct 21, 2025
Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo tackle the critical issue of burnout in dentistry. They share personal experiences and emphasize the necessity of self-care and work-life balance. New graduates face daunting expectations, while seasoned professionals often struggle with overwork and underappreciation. The importance of scheduled downtime for recovery and creativity is highlighted. Techniques to protect personal time, manage stress, and maintain mental health through intentional routines are discussed. Seek help and prioritize your well-being for long-term success.
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Burnout Hits Talented Clinicians Fast
- Burnout in dentistry is widespread and often hits talented clinicians unexpectedly.
- Early recognition and protective mechanisms are essential to prevent cascading negative outcomes.
New-Grad Shocked By Real Practice Pace
- Andrew felt early-career burnout when real-world dentistry expectations exceeded dental school preparation.
- He avoided hiring new grads into busy models because of high failure and burnout risk.
Owner Burnout From Wearing Every Hat
- Andrew burned out as an owner working 80–100 hours handling ownership and clinical duties.
- He intentionally hired associates and leadership to reduce clinical load and avoid deeper burnout.
