Factors of life satisfaction and happiness among dentists: A cross sectional study

OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to determine the levels of happiness among dentists and to investigate their associations with emotional well-being and satisfaction with life. METHODS: Dentists in Turkey were surveyed with 25 questions on age, gender, place of work, and years of experience, and a five-item life satisfaction scale. RESULTS: A total of 486 dentists completed the survey. Dentists' workplaces and professional titles were associated with their life satisfaction scores. Most dentists (n = 373; 76.25%) reported feeling pressured in their work environment, and the institution where they worked was significantly associated with the degree of pressure (p < 0.001). Institution (p < 0.001), job title (p < 0.001), and work experience (p < 0.019) were significant factors in whether they would recommend their profession to others. Dentists' institutions and titles were significantly associated with life satisfaction (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that dentists in Turkey have a low life satisfaction with respect to that of other professionals and dentists from other countries. In addition, the factors associated with life satisfaction vary.