Page 6 - Bulletin Vol 29 No 2 - May. - Aug. 2024 FINAL

Message from the President

Is professionalism a “lost art” in Dentistry, or has the definition simply evolved
over time?

This question came up at our Dental Society Strategic Planning Board Meeting
recently, and as you will see the answer is far from simple. The perception of
professionalism as a "lost art" in today's generation is subjective and can depend
on various factors, including personal experiences, cultural shifts, and evolving
workplace dynamics. While some might argue that there is a decline in tradition-
al professional behaviors and attitudes, others see changes as an evolution in
the concept of professionalism.

For instance, today's generation often values authenticity, work-life balance, and flexibility, which may
contrast with older views of professionalism that emphasized formality and rigid adherence to established
norms. These shifts don't necessarily mean professionalism is lost; rather, it is being redefined to fit modern
contexts.

Furthermore, many young professionals demonstrate strong ethical standards, commitment to quality, and
innovative approaches to their work. Thus, while the expression of professionalism may differ from previous
generations, it is not necessarily lost.
In my observation of how young Dentists relate to more established Dentists, it seems evident the standards
have definitely changed, which can not only cause confusion, but at times some resentment in the previous
generation. Modern professionalism includes a strong focus on inclusivity, diversity, and creating a
respectful environment for all employees, which includes addressing issues like unconscious bias, promoting
equal opportunities, and fostering an inclusive culture. In the past, the most common practice model was
small private practices, but now with a shift to larger group practices, multiple location practices, and even
DSO’s, the practice landscape has changed significantly.

Subsequently, these shifts have extended further, and it’s worth discussing. Digital communication tools
have become more prevalent, leading to changes in how professionalism is expressed. For example, email,
instant messaging, and zoom or video calls have different etiquette compared to in-person meetings. These
technological changes have in turn paved the way for further areas of change. Dress codes have generally
become more relaxed, with more Dentists wearing scrubs, versus a shirt, tie, white coat, or other traditional
professional Dental attire.
As you can see, Dentistry, as in society in general, is a victim of generational changes. We definitely see this

clearly in our organization. As we’ve discussed lately, the younger generation of Dentists, are much less
inclined to give up work hours to volunteer, and do not fully see the value of organized Dentistry. While past
generations often saw education as a guaranteed path to financial stability, the current generation is more
skeptical due to the high cost of education and uncertain job prospects.

Another strong driving force in a shift in professionalism in Dentistry is social media. While social media
offers many benefits, it also presents challenges, such as maintaining patient privacy, managing negative
feedback, and ensuring the accuracy of shared information. Overall, it has become an integral tool for

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