Date of Award

5-2026

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Departmental Honors

Department

Biology

Abstract

This qualitative research study examined satisfaction, stressors, and burnout among dental professionals in Cache Valley, Utah. Eight practitioners at various points in their careers were interviewed with a range of specialties including general dentistry (n = 3), pedodontics (n = 3), oral and facial surgery (n = 1), and orthodontics (n = 1). Analysis of the interviews showed that level of clinical autonomy was a primary factor influencing burnout levels. Stress levels in more experienced practitioners and owners tended to be lower than those who worked in multiple practices (multi-doctor) or with corporations. Individuals in these environments reported higher levels of cynicism and emotional exhaustion from factors such as performance metrics and lack of control over their environment. However, ownership also involves unique business management stressors, suggesting that burnout in dentistry is more about the kind of stressors and level of control one has than workload alone.

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Faculty Mentor

Julie Gast

Departmental Honors Advisor

James Pitts