• Chanchai Hosanguan B.Sc. (Hons), D.D.S. (Hons), M.S.

Objectives Job stress has an impact on service quality and turnover intention of human resources
for oral health. The aims of this study were to assess job stress among Thai dentists and to identify
related factors.

Material and method A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a systematic random sample of
Thai dentists. After two rounds of mailing, 733 active practicing dentists returned the questionnaire.
Job stress during the year 2004 was assessed by the Job Stress Inventory. Stepwise multiple regression
models were built to identify correlates of job stress.

Results About 31.7% of dentists demonstrated moderate to high level of job stress. Multiple
regression analyses revealed that both perceived workload and turnover intention had positive
correlation with stress in all models. Job satisfaction was negatively related to job stress in all
models. Being a private practitioner had bi-directional relationships with all subscales. Other correlates
included the number of hour worked and income.

Conclusion This study confirmed a high stress level within dental profession, especially in public
sectors. Stress models illustrated the influence of both individual and organizational factors.

(CU Dent J. 2007;30:255-68)