Some Tips for Choosing Dental Furniture and Practice Décor
While the adage that states “you only have one chance to create a first impression” may be something of a cliché, that does not detract from its truth. Whether visiting a friend’s home for the first time, attending the opening of a new store or paying a first visit to a new dentist, first impressions can make or break the experience. Tasteful décor in the reception area and quality dental furniture in the treatment room can inspire confidence and help overcome fear in new patients, reducing their stress levels and making it easier for a dentist to treat them safely and effectively.
Whether renovating an existing practice or establishing a new squat, choosing furniture and planning its interior design can be challenging, and neither is typical of the skills acquired at a dental school. Furthermore, choosing furniture for a dental clinic is time-consuming and requires careful thought. These are two compelling reasons to leave dental furniture and décor to an acknowledged expert in this specialised field.
However, for those who have the time and the inclination, the following suggestions should prove helpful:
Dental Waiting Room Furniture and Décor
One cannot overstate the importance of visual appeal in ensuring a favourable first impression.
- Use calming colours like pastel blues and greens or neutral tones in the reception area to help reduce patient anxiety.
- Choose comfortable seating to match or contrast smoothly with the surroundings. It should be durable, easy to clean and suitable for patients of all ages.
- Ensure the reception desk is functional and large enough to accommodate administrative tasks while providing sufficient clear space to interact comfortably with patients. Integrated storage space for paperwork, computers, and other essentials will help eliminate clutter. Ensure it’s shielded or sufficiently distant from the waiting area to ensure privacy.
- Poor lighting can make a room look dowdy and uninviting, while harsh fluorescent strips can create an overly clinical feel. By contrast, soft, warm lighting has a soothing sensation. However, natural light makes a room feel more open and inviting when available.
- Ensure the area is accessible for all patients. Low desks and wide spaces are essential for wheelchair users.
- Finally, use the reception area to promote your brand with wall art, embroidered cushions and signage or have it printed on your dental waiting room furniture.
Dental Furniture for Treatment Rooms
Ergonomically designed dental chairs and stools are vital for patient and practitioner comfort, as are adjustable height and tilting capabilities for easy access during treatments. They should also be made of easy-to-clean, antimicrobial materials. Other considerations include:
- A planned layout that optimises workflow, allows easy access to instrument trays and other dental furniture while providing sufficient space for dentists and their equipment to move freely as required.
- Adjustable bright lighting in the treatment area with softer ambient lighting to maintain a calm environment.
- Background music systems can further enhance patient comfort.
These are just a few of the many possible ways the interior design experts at Hague Dental Supplies can transform your practice. As you will see from these inspirational layouts, we offer a wide range of elegant and functional dental furniture for sale and décor ideas.