Sleep disturbance is common among dentists, particularly those experiencing stress, anxiety, or high responsibility. There is a two-way relationship between sleep and mental health. Poor sleep impairs concentration, emotional regulation, memory, and pain tolerance - all critical for safe dental practice. Sleep is a core pillar of professional performance and patient safety, not an optional self-care extra.

We all feel better after a good night’s sleep. We wake up refreshed, energised and ready to tackle whatever the world throws our way. Conversely a poor sleep leaves us feeling listless and grumpy. And the evidence says that insufficient sleep will increase your negative emotional response to stress and decrease your positive emotions.

Stress is inevitable, but taking steps to address it can help to ensure that you get a good night sleep so that it doesn’t affect your performance the next day.

Many people view sleep as just something the do at the end of a long day. But it’s important to think of sleep as an important investment in your wellbeing. Every hour of sleep that you bank each night will give your body and mind valuable returns in the future. Similarly, losing 90 minutes of sleep in a night can cost you up to a third of your productivity the following day. Think about how important that is for a dental practitioner who must be able to remain alert and focused all day.