Going to the dentist can be an enjoyable and stress-free event. There are, however, people who dread the whole experience, putting off their visit until the last minute. As a dental professional one aspect that needs to be carefully considered is the role your clinic’s architecture plays in creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for your patients. This informative blog post will share how the waiting area, operatory, and accessible design work to make your dental practice a great place to be.
The Waiting Area
There is a saying that you only have one chance to make a good first impression, and the same goes for the architecture of your dental practice. How do patients feel when they first enter your practice? Is it an inviting environment? Natural and artificial light can be used to create a soothing and tranquil waiting area for your patients. Additionally, comfortable seating and soothing colors can be used to create a calming atmosphere.
Another important aspect of creating a welcoming waiting room is clarity in wayfinding. It’s important to have an easy-to-find and prominent reception area, this goes a long way in relieving patient anxiety. The reception area should be well organized to help create a smooth patient experience.
Operatory
Since the dental operatory is the space where dental procedures are performed, care should be taken to make sure that it is designed for comfort and efficiency. Aesthetically pleasing materials and comfortable seating will help patients feel at ease during procedures. Operatory ergonomics are important for making the space pleasant for the dentist, hygienist, and assistant. Proper planning for the layout of the operatory makes the workflow and experience of the space enjoyable for everyone.
Accessibility
Dental professionals are familiar with ADA, the American Dental Association, but there is another ADA, the Americans with Disabilities Act, that affects the design of your dental practice. The Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines ensure that your facility is designed to be inclusive to persons with disabilities. Adhering to these guidelines not only keeps the facility on the correct side of the law but also provides a better experience for patients and employees.
At TKZ Architecture we believe in creating healthy and inviting places for people to enjoy. We are experienced with healthcare architecture. If you have questions or need guidance for your next dental architecture project feel free to get in touch with us.