Dental offices employ a wide variety of highly-trained health professionals. These include dentists, dental hygienists, and receptionists. Office managers handle appointment scheduling, billing, and other paperwork. Dental offices are clinics where dentists perform oral cleanings and treatments on their patients. The procedures performed in a Dental Office help to keep the teeth and gums healthy and fix problems like tooth decay or broken jaw bones.
Many people think of a dental clinic as a place that offers traditional oral care. However, a dental clinic is often much more than that.
Dental Procedures
Most of the procedures in a dental office are carried out in the treatment room, also known as the dental operatory (Fig. 32-4). This is where the dental hygienist and the dentist work with each patient.
Fillings and crowns are common dental treatments. A filling is used to repair a small hole in the tooth caused by decay, while a crown is needed for more extensive damage and to restore a tooth’s strength after root canal therapy.
Other routine dental treatments include a dental prophylaxis, or professional and detailed cleaning, which removes plaque, calculus, stains and other debris from teeth. Some dental offices also offer a range of cosmetic treatments to make the smile more attractive, including veneers and dentures.
Dental Equipment
Whether you’re a dentist who’s just starting out or looking to upgrade, investing in the right equipment is vital. This can help boost the effectiveness of your operations and enhance patient satisfaction.
A dental delivery system, for example, is essential for providing a stable platform for air or electric powered instruments. It needs to have a comfortable seat for the patient, adjustable settings, and adequate lighting for visibility during procedures.
Other essential equipment includes CEREC, a software-based system that allows dentists to restore damaged teeth with premium quality ceramic material in one appointment. It’s important to ensure that staff are fully trained on how to use the equipment properly, as well as follow established protocols to avoid breakdowns and other technical problems.
Effective storage solutions are also necessary. This helps maintain a neat and organised appearance in the operatory, while making it easy for staff to locate and access materials.
Reception Areas
The dental office reception area serves as the first impression patients have of your practice. It is important that it conveys professionalism and comfort. The use of soothing colors, comfortable chairs, and decor that creates a sense of calmness are important.
The layout of the reception area should be organized in a way that encourages logical patient flow. The space should allow clients to check in and return paperwork without blocking the path of those waiting for their appointments. It is also helpful to have some seating available for those who prefer to sit while they wait to be called back to their appointments.
It is also important to have a dedicated area for children with age-appropriate books and toys to keep them occupied while their parents are in the treatment room. Displaying local artwork and incorporating a small display of your practice’s history can help make the reception area feel more personal and welcoming for guests.
Office Space
One of the most important decisions made when constructing a new dental office is floor space. This is the most expensive fixed expense for a dentist to manage, and can affect the ability to make a profit and position the practice for long term success.
It is also critical to consider future technology needs and design in a flexible manner. For example, having nooks to dock equipment like digital scanners can save space while providing easy access for use in the treatment room.
Another option for an expanding practice is to consider a shared space. This can be a good choice for general practitioners that want to own a private practice but are not ready to take on the risk and expense of purchasing their own facility. It can also be an excellent solution for specialists that want to work part time or with a general practitioner. A specialized dental real estate professional can help you evaluate your options and assist in finding a suitable location.