About

Bobby Broadfoot graduated as a dentist from Glasgow Dental Hospital & School in 1971. His first job was as a General Dental Practitioner in Prestwick where he was encouraged by his principal to think about the quality of the service and the importance of work life balance. The practice provided a very high standard of care for patients and expected dentists to keep fit both physically and mentally in order to maintain that standard of care. This concept has remained as a core principle for Bobby throughout his varied dental career.

 

In 1974 Bobby purchased a practice in North Ayrshire where he introduced the team concept of delivering dental care. The importance of good communication within the team to avoid misunderstandings which can lead to stress was a key factor in the success of the practice. Modern dental equipment and correct nurse supported treatment systems were introduced in order to reduce the physical stress for both dentist and nurse.

 

The next stage of Bobby’s career took him back to Glasgow Dental Hospital & School as a part time teacher. He helped to develop the nurse assisted teaching clinic where students could provide treatment as part of a team with a dental nurse and learn ergonomic working practices. The students up to that point had treated patients unassisted which led to physically stressed working positions and often associated mental stress.

 

From 1989 to 1999 Bobby was involved in the new Vocational Training Schemes for recent graduates. Good quality dental practices were supported to become training practices in order to provide a supported environment for recent graduates commencing their dental career.

This was a fantastic opportunity for Bobby to share his stress management techniques with the new trainers who were keen to improve their practices and reduce their levels of stress. The new graduates obviously benefitted from

working in dental practices where the management of stress was being addressed for all members of the team.

Careers advice for recent graduates became part of Bobby’s role and some graduates who chose a branch of dentistry which did not suit their personality benefitted from Bobby’s advice.

Dentistry can be a stressful occupation and in recent years Bobby has provided help to many dentists and dental teams who have needed support. The first stage often involves other agencies as the immediate problems are addressed and then an action plan can be developed. A stressful environment is not conducive to good communications and the development of an action plan is a terrific mechanism for breaking the ice and getting communications re-established.

Bobby’s experience of several branches of dentistry and considerable experience at helping dentists in trouble is now available through the blog as part of this site.

Remember the most important message is to avoid secrecy and talk to someone.