Leadership and Managerial Skills in Dentistry: Characteristics and Challenges Based on a Preliminary Case Study

Abstract

Dentistry is changing rapidly in a dynamic and challenging mode and is incorporating digital technology, communication, and managerial skills for profitable enterprises. On the new dental horizon, the profession requires engaging and inspiring role models and leaders. Ιdentifying and developing human soft skills can improve quality issues and guarantee a sustainable dental business. The concept of leadership is a very complex and multidimensional phenomenon as observed from the current literature. In different commercial environments, there has been a huge discussion on the specific characteristics of an effective leader. In dentistry, the subject needs further investigation. This article aims to bring up the importance of dental leadership and highlights the need of identifying dental leaders committed to excellency. It also challenges the need for educational shift on dental leadership management. Finally, it aims to support and develop educational transformations based on positive preliminary data observed by incorporating a new, relevant subject in the dental curriculum.

Educational Approach: Application of SWOT Analysis for Assessing Entrepreneurial Goals in Senior Dental Students

“…Although economic instability in the decision-making process of senior dental students in our study did not achieve conventional significance levels, its presence in the model suggests potential influence. This aligns with the broader recognition that economic considerations wield substantial influence on career decisions [38]. Also, our study confirms previous findings on gender-based differences in career decision-making, with female and male dental students showing distinct preferences in SWOT analysis components [39].…”

A Systemic Model for Resilience and Time Management in Healthcare Academia

“…Under this approach the researchers emphasize some key time management strategies such as prioritization and focus on high-priority tasks that contribute significantly to research goals, time blocking when we allocate specific time blocks for different research activities, goal setting for guiding research activities and maintaining motivation, with clear short-term and long-term objectives, the delegation of non-essential tasks to free up time for critical research activities and utilizing time management tools such as calendar apps and task management software to organize schedules and track deadlines efficiently [71]. Clear and transparent communication channels are therefore essential for designing time management strategies, that contribute to collaboration, and address challenges as they arise cultivating resilience [10]. Insights from TASM model emphasize the importance of establishing open channels for expressing needs and managing change, which are crucial for staff well-being and program adaptation [11].…”

“…In academia, the "Timebooster approach" presented in this study, offers a strategic shift towards effective time management, emphasizing strategic delegation to save time and optimize planning [72]. If we assume a manager-leader role, we academicians can orchestrate research activities while delegating non-expertise tasks to others, garnering support and enhancing productivity [10]. Moreover, prioritizing tasks based on career evolution, infusing enjoyable tasks into daily routines, and integrating time management across academic pillars are crucial parameters of time management in our field [1,55,[73][74][75].…”

Creating and Validating a Questionnaire for Assessing Dentists’ Self-Perception on Oral Healthcare Management—A Pilot Study

“…Dental offices have their own special mix of possibilities and threats in the dynamic healthcare system. Managing a practice efficiently and profitably while simultaneously providing excellent patient care calls for a high level of expertise [16].…”