If you’re just opening your first dental practice, there are undoubtedly a few crucial items you need to begin. In this post, we’re taking a look at some important dental technology and equipment considerations to help you make the right investments right away.
Here are some important tech needs for any dental practice:
X-Ray/3-D Imaging Equipment
Any dental practice should have its own X-ray machines to capture images for diagnosing dental problems, but many newer offices are branching beyond the standard models to incorporate advanced 3-D cone beam, CAD/CAM, and related printing solutions. Your IT partner can help you explore the options available to you.
Computers & Mounting Solutions
You won’t just need a computer or two at the front desk to check in/check out and manage patient billing. Typically, each examination room needs its own computer for charting and notes. In both spaces, you’ll want an ergonomic setup with appropriate mounting solutions to easily view the screen while working. You should have a dedicated server for the practice and another for processing X-rays.
Of course, you’ll want to make sure all devices integrate with your dental management software for seamless data capture and transfer, and that they have the proper cybersecurity protection to safeguard against bad actors and protect your patients’ private data.
Dental Patient Chairs
Another important decision is your patient treatment chairs. Your patient chairs play a huge role in comfort and operational functionality for you, your patients, hygienists, and assistants.
Look for chairs with well-placed cushioning and padding, moveable armrests, and programmable positions, all aimed at creating a smooth experience for both those in the chair and those who need to work around it. Because dental chairs are a long-term, costly investment, take your time choosing the right model to last for many years to come.
Dental Operatory Lights
Your patients don’t want to be blinded in the exam chair, but your employees need adequate lighting to perform their job properly. After all, low lighting could lead to inaccurate diagnoses, accidents during operations, and more.
Choose lighting solutions with adjustable brightness settings and moveable functionality, to allow you to adjust the intensity and direction of the light for any individual’s needs.
Sterilization & Utility Equipment
As always, but especially during COVID-19 times, your patients’ and employees' health is top-of-mind. In order to reduce the spread of infection, invest in top-rated sterilization equipment. It is critical that your dental instruments are cleaned efficiently and thoroughly.
Don’t forget about the technology that is essential to performing patient cleaning and restorative procedures. Carefully consider your compressor, amalgam separator, and air, water, and suction devices.
Video/Audio Features
When your patient is waiting in the waiting room or treatment chair, how will you entertain them? Many dental practices install audio/video solutions that can play educational pieces or screen television broadcasting to help patients pass the time. Not only could these videos help patients learn, but they can also reduce anxiety or motivate patients to invest in more frequent cleanings or a higher level of care for their teeth.
Even if you are just starting a dental practice, consider adding stimulating video or audio technology to your waiting and treatment rooms right away. Many services offer controlled televising to ensure that your patients are watching the right educational programming for your goals.
Dental Laser
You don't necessarily need a dental laser to start your practice. However, laser technology can improve procedures by making them easier, faster, and more comfortable for the patient.
A single laser can perform a number of services for your practice, including: teeth whitening, cavity detection, treating tooth sensitivity or gum disease, performing biopsies, removing lesions, and more — making a dental laser a smart investment.
Practice Management Software
Keep your imaging, patient communications, reporting, and analytics all in one place with the right practice management solution.
Begin by looking into popular practice management software applications. Here is a review of the top-rated dental programs for you to explore your options.
Beyond the Big Picture
Dental technology branches beyond electronic equipment. In addition to these items, you’ll need to choose dental headpieces, PPE, and more.
That’s why you need a technology partner: one who understands the holistic needs of the world of dentistry.
Explore our Technology Installation & Configuration Services or contact us at 866-446-8797, today.
