In the stressful, often chaotic world we live in today, many dental offices are moving away from cold, clinical environments and embracing a calming, spa-like esthetic to soothe patient anxiety and improve team morale. Even outside of the dental office, stress is increasing the amount of health issues Americans experience, and its impact on oral health is no exception. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), more than 70% of dentists have reported an increase in patients experiencing stress-related dental conditions, such as teeth grinding and clenching, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.¹
The good news is small, intentional changes can make a big impact. Here are simple and affordable ways to create a calming workspace that reduces stress and enhances comfort for everyone.
Harsh fluorescent lights can increase stress. Warm-toned LED lights or task lighting create a more relaxed atmosphere. Natural light, when available, is even better. To level up the stress-relieving nature of lighting in the dental office, increase and maximize any exposure to natural light as much as possible. Exposure to natural light has been associated with improved mood and reduced stress in various settings.²
Quick tip for implementation: add salt lamps or soft fixtures in reception areas for a relaxing ambiance and open the blinds in operatories and throughout the office to let in natural light.
Personal décor, such as framed photos or small potted plants throughout the reception area, and even in the operatories, makes your dental office more inviting. Bonus: plants like peace lilies not only look good but also purify the air. In fact, a study revealed that increased exposure to natural elements in an office setting such as plants and natural light showed a positive relationship with improved attitudes and reduced levels of depression.2
When it comes to keeping patient and staff stress down, Dr. Shea Bess, a practicing dentist and dental lecturer, believes in the power of laughter, whether it’s cracking a joke to make his patient smile, or watching a silly TikTok video with his staff between patients.
Introducing calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus with an essential oil diffuser encourages both the patient and dental care professionals to breathe deeply and relax.3
SEO tip: A quick search reveals that more and more patients are seeking out dental offices that offer aromatherapy for reducing dental anxiety. Incorporating it into your protocol and advertising it on your website is a win/win for patients and your bottom line.
Swap rigid chairs in waiting areas for plush, ergonomic options. Staff can also benefit from ergonomic tools and chairs with lumbar support to reduce physical strain.
Soft music or nature sounds help mask the nerve-wracking hum of dental equipment and reduce tension. Offering noise-canceling headphones for patients to listen to music or podcasts during procedures also helps. Additionally, clean, warm blanket can sooth patient nerves.
Dr. Jaleena Fischer-Jessop, a practicing dentist and Ultradent’s chief clinical officer, keeps a fresh tube of chapstick in every operatory so she can swipe it on their lips to ensure patient comfort during lip retraction procedures. It’s small gestures such as this that help patients feel calm and most importantly, cared for, make a huge difference.
When it comes to minimizing stress and keeping patients comfortable, Dr. Fischer-Jessop lets patients know what she's doing before she does it. “I like to verbalize that we are double checking with the X-ray and clinical exam (or whatever it is that we’re doing), and I also make sure to ask if they have any questions before we begin so I can address any concerns,” she says. Like Dr. Bess, Dr. Fischer-Jessop likes to keep the mood bright. “Being professional, warm, and friendly, and even joking around a little with your patient and your staff helps reduce anxiety and lighten the atmosphere.”
Many practices incorporate extra spa-like amenities such as warm towels, massage chairs, and water infused with sliced fruit like lemons or oranges. Anything you can do to help your patients forget they’re in a clinical setting and help them feel like they’re getting pampered is the goal.
Clutter creates stress. Keeping workspaces tidy with labeled storage solutions reduces that stress and improves workflow. A minimalist office and operatory design promote calm for both staff and patients.
Closing Thoughts
A stress-free dental office benefits everyone. Patients feel more at ease, and dental professionals can work more efficiently.
By implementing these changes, you can transform your dental office into a welcoming haven of self-care. From soft lighting to aromatherapy, small adjustments create big benefits for everyone.
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