The Benefits of a Professional Dental Practice Design
The value of dental practice design is often overlooked, but a well-designed reception area and treatment room can boost staff morale and patient satisfaction. Whether consciously or otherwise, we are all influenced by our surroundings.
When we escape the confines of some grey concrete jungle and set foot on a sunlit tropical beach or escape to some picturesque lakeside cabin, our spirits are immediately uplifted. It’s much the same in our homes. We are invariably happier and more relaxed in an elegantly decorated lounge than when surrounded by four plain walls devoid of colour and warmth. So why would a patient’s reaction be any different when visiting a dentist?
In the workplace, we are also influenced by our surroundings. Research has shown that a well-designed working environment helps to reduce stress and improve productivity. Only when employees are calm and relaxed will they produce their best work. It is, therefore, in the interests of both your staff and your patients to upgrade your dental practice.
The main elements of dental practice design
In a nutshell, a new practice design or dental practice refurbishment needs to be of high quality, easy to work with, good to look at and must comply with the standards set by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Let’s now examine each of these elements in more detail and how they can affect patients and dentists:
- Quality
While it may be tempting to cut costs on a new practice design, the quality of furnishings and equipment is one of the factors on which patients will base their judgment of your dental practice. A well-designed, comfortable dental chair and delivery console from Belmont or A-dec can transform the patient experience. You only get one chance to make a first impression.
- Aesthetics
Never overlook the importance of visual appeal. The traditional choice of pristine white walls and ceilings can seem coldly clinical and is more likely to agitate than relieve the anxiety of a nervous patient. By contrast, like sunlight after a storm, the appropriate use of colour can have a much-needed calming effect. Only when their patients are relaxed can dentists do their best work. Begin by transforming the reception area, where first impressions are made, and then extend the theme to the treatment room.
- Ergonomics
As a dental practitioner, you will often spend up to 8 hours treating patients. Seated or standing, excessive stretching, bending or operating in awkward positions can lead to discomfort and fatigue that could affect your performance. In the longer term, you could develop a musculoskeletal disorder. Again, choosing the right chair package is the solution when planning your dental practice redesign.
- Legal Obligations
As healthcare professionals, dentists in the United Kingdom are subject to periodic inspections by the CQC, an independent regulator of health and adult social care, whether undertaken by the NHS, private practitioners or voluntary organisations. The body’s primary concerns are patient and practitioner safety and quality of care. While a professional dental practice design is a crucial step towards CQC compliance, it’s important to note that there are various other aspects and requirements that the practice needs to address to meet the comprehensive standards set by the CQC.
Trust your dental practice refurbishment to Hague
With 25 years of experience in dental practice design, upgrades and refurbishments, Hague Dental Supplies is uniquely positioned to build the reception and treatment areas of your dreams. Contact us to plan a new look for your practice together.
