North Texas Dentistry Volume 5 Issue 4 | Page 18

office design How to Make the Biggest IMPACT on Your Practice Through Office Design T by Stephanie Morgan, RID, IIDA, LEED AP hese days, so many dentists put great emphasis on making sure that their patients are cared for and that their practice is profitable. While they focus on training and the latest equipment to address these concerns and move their practice forward they often undervalue office aesthetics, which is another element that is just as impactful. Your office is one of the biggest marketing tools you have. If you believe you’re throwing money away by investing in an upgrade or moving into a new space, you may want to think again. If you believe you’re throwing money away by investing in an upgrade or moving into a new space, you may want to think again. 18 NORTH TEXAS DENTISTRY | www.northtexasdentistry.com We have all heard the phrase “you only get one chance to make a first impression.” The same could be said for your dental practice. If a patient walks into an office with old uncomfortable furniture and poor lighting, it can send a negative message as to the type of care and services they are about to receive. You want your office to reflect the way you run your practice. This also applies to the finishes, furniture, and art. If the space looks dated your patients may assume that you are behind the times functionally as well. It’s All in the Details Oftentimes, patients are already anxious, fearful or apprehensive when they arrive for a dental appointment. You want to ensure that from the moment patients walk into your space they are instilled with a sense of trust and not fear. Good design has a significant influence on creating that type of feeling.