By Dr. Sarah Jockin, DDS, DABOI, Board-Certified Oral Implantologist, Director of Wellness, Heartland Dental
As dentists, we’re trained to care deeply for others—to show up each day ready to help patients, lead our teams, and deliver exceptional clinical outcomes. But what we don’t always talk about is how that same dedication can take a toll on our bodies, minds, and long-term health.
Before stepping into my role as Director of Wellness at Heartland Dental, I was on the brink of leaving clinical practice due to severe musculoskeletal (MSK) pain. I had tried everything—physical therapy, acupuncture, massage. Each provided temporary relief, but nothing lasted. My body was exhausted. The idea of working another decade in dentistry felt impossible.
Understanding Musculoskeletal Risk in Dentistry
MSK disorders are among the most common reasons dentists and hygienists leave the profession early. Our work is physically demanding—we spend long hours in awkward postures, repeating fine motor movements with our hands, arms, and necks. Over time, this leads to chronic pain, fatigue, and even permanent damage.
Dentists are especially prone to back, wrist, and shoulder issues. For many, the pain becomes an unspoken part of the job.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
At Heartland Dental, we’re actively addressing MSK health through education, awareness, and access to care. One of the most impactful resources has been the virtual MSK program offered through HealthJoy. It’s free for anyone enrolled in a Heartland-sponsored health insurance plan—and it changed everything for me.
Wellness Beyond the Operatory
Wellness isn’t just about physical pain, it’s emotional and mental, too. In a profession where burnout is real and common, we have to take care of ourselves holistically.
A 2021 ADA survey revealed that the percentage of dentists diagnosed with anxiety has more than tripled over the past 20 years. That doesn’t surprise me. Our role is complex. We juggle clinical decisions, team leadership, patient emotions, and business operations. It’s a lot. And if we don’t slow down to check in with ourselves, it adds up fast.
To help with this, Heartland Dental partnered with the Mayo Clinic to validate the Dental Well-Being Index—a tool that allows supported doctors and team members to assess their mental wellness in just a few minutes. The results are private and provide personalized resources, benchmarking, and the ability to track progress over time. It’s quick, easy, and eye-opening—and available to any dentist.
Creating a Culture of Wellness
As Director of Wellness, my goal is to improve quality of life, not just for our supported doctors, but for their teams and patients, too. We do this by providing practical tools and promoting a culture that values balance, one of Heartland Dental’s core values.
I often share tips with teams, and the most powerful ones are also the simplest:
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Start small. Take five minutes each morning for mindfulness. It can reset your energy for the day.
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Keep a daily wellness log. Jot down one thing you’ve done for yourself each day, even if it’s just stretching between patients.
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Lead by example. When doctors talk openly about their wellness routines, it gives their teams permission to do the same.
Wellness isn’t something extra. It’s foundational. And it’s not just about helping individuals feel better. It strengthens team dynamics, improves patient interactions, and builds a healthier culture.
Wellness Is Not a Luxury—It’s a Necessity
I got involved in this work because I reached a breaking point. That experience has fueled my passion to help others avoid the same.
To every doctor, hygienist, or team member pushing through pain or stress: You don’t have to. The support exists. And the first step is simply acknowledging that your well-being matters.
When we take care of ourselves, we’re able to take even better care of everyone else.