The program area previously known as the Dentist Well-Being Program has been renamed Dentist Health and Wellness. This ‘bigger umbrella’ covers support for our disabled dentists, some of our activities related to ergonomics and dental practice, and resources to help dentists be more proactive in looking at their own health and wellness. And we still have the resources we’ve always had for dentists with substance use and mental health disorders.

The single most valuable asset in any dental practice is the dentist. Optimal health and work-life balance aren’t the buzzwords of the week or touchy-feely luxuries; rather they are essential to the maintenance of the person(s) without whom the practice would cease to exist!

The practice of clinical dentistry is physically, mentally and emotionally demanding. Many dentists thrive on the challenges and benefits of dental practice. But for other dentists, things happen, circumstances change, life doesn’t always go according to plan.

When there are those ‘bumps in the road,’ the ADA is the place to turn for information. After all, no one knows dentistry better than the ADA!

Staff Contacts

• Donalda Ellek, PhD, manager,
  Office of Quality Assessment and Improvement, Council on Dental Benefit Programs and consultant, ergonomics,
  312-440-2772 or toll-free X2772,
  e-mail: ellekd@ada.org
• Marcia McKinney, senior project manager, Dentist Health and Wellness,
  312-440-2662 or toll-free X2662,
  e-mail: mckinneym@ada.org

For information on personal assistance, including referral information for state well-being committees, specialized treatment facilities or ADA resources, call the member toll-free number, X2622, or 312-440-2622, or e-mail keatingl@ada.org.