Dentists who are starting a new dental practice or those who need to upgrade their current one usually want the best of everything. In reality, though, most practices have to prioritize cost and practicality. If that’s the situation you’re in, invest in dental office equipment that can both increase productivity and attract new patients.
The goal here is to create a high-functioning environment for your staff that also aligns your practice’s brand with innovation and organization. Choosing quality over price for the following common dental tools and equipment can go a long way toward helping you achieve both goals. And they will provide the best return because they will help your practice grow in profitability.
Common Dental Equipment Where It Pays to Get the Best
Adding new tools and equipment to your practice can be expensive. That’s one reason why we chose to give dental practices a free digital dental scanner when they join Dandy. We believe the cost shouldn’t get in the way of enjoying the benefits of digital dentistry. On the other hand, there are some pieces of equipment where the cost is unavoidable. These pieces of dental equipment can be expensive, but as you’ll see, they’re worth every penny.
1. Dental Chairs
The first thing many patients notice when they enter a dental exam room is the chair they’ll be sitting in. The patient chair’s design and style will tell them a lot about your practice. The more modern your chair is, the more cutting edge your entire dental practice will feel. An ergonomic chair that has comfortable padding and moveable armrests improves the patient experience by keeping them comfortable and relaxed.
Choosing the right chair can also make work easier for dentists, hygienists, and assistants. Modern chairs have programmable positions and allow dentists to make quick adjustments using foot switches and touchpads.
If your chairs are starting to get worn out or stained, or if they don’t maneuver easily, consider an upgrade.
2. Dental Cabinets
Your operatory cabinetry layout and design have a big impact on workflow efficiency. You and your colleagues need to know where all dental instruments are stored and be able to access them quickly. This will ensure seamless dental procedures.
Invest in cabinetry that is durable and long-lasting and give thought to the layout. Patients dislike waiting, especially if that comes because of confusion or disorganization. When everything is where you need it to be, the experience creates a sense of harmony and cohesion. That will instill trust in the patient and will produce better case results.
3. Sterilizers
There are many processes that practice employees must follow to ensure patient safety. Perhaps none are more important than sterilization. Investing in proper sterilization equipment is crucial. The three most common types of sterilizers are autoclaves, dry heat sterilizers, and unsaturated chemical vapor sterilizers.
Dental offices often don’t have a lot of space for equipment, but there are many excellent tabletop sterilizers that will help with infection control and don’t take up too much real estate.
Investing in a faster sterilizer can also make your practice run more efficiently. Some sterilizers even offer USB and network ports for remote monitoring. A high-quality sterilizer maintains a standard of security for everyone involved in your practice.
4. Operatory Lights
Poor lighting can impact the success of your operation or the accuracy of your diagnosis. Every dental office is different. Thankfully, there are operating lights for every setup, whether you are attaching to the wall, ceiling, cabinet, or delivery system.
Adjustability is important. Invest in a light that can be easily adjusted by the dentist or by an assistant while the doctor is working. Make sure that the light you choose works with your delivery system and cabinetry, and that it is compatible with your preferred work methods.
Visibility is the most critical aspect of effective diagnosis and treatment, so know what you need and don’t settle for inadequate lighting.
Furnishing a top-tier dental office is a major investment, so make sure your new equipment comes with a warranty. Your options will vary based on the amount and type of space you have. If your office equipment works together seamlessly, your staff will be more efficient and your patients will feel more comfortable.
