While it may not seem like it at first, the interior design of your dental practice is an important aspect to consider when you’re looking to improve patient experience or increase efficiency.

The waiting room is the first place a patient will see when they visit you for the first time and can make a lasting impression – both good and bad. Several design aspects can even help reduce stress or anxiety that some patients may experience when visiting the dentist.

Lighting

Chances are good that most, if not all, of us have been in a space with harsh fluorescent lighting and found it rather unpleasant, so it’s not surprising that lighting can play a role in a patient’s experience. According to a 2024 study¹, using natural and soft-ambient light can help to promote a positive emotional response in patients.

Plants

In that same study, plants and greenery were shown to have stress-reducing effects. Though, it’s important to consider that very vibrant or colorful arrangements may cause an uptick in stress for some, so keeping your plant design cohesive and simple may be a better option.

Seating

Providing your patients with a variety of seating options can be helpful in ensuring their comfort while in the waiting room. Some people may be sociable and want to interact with others while waiting, while others may wish to be more solitary. Having areas of your waiting room that allow for this can be incredibly beneficial. This article provides more information on the qualities of each type of space.

Color Scheme

Color can also have a major effect on patient’s emotions or experiences in a space. The colors you’d use for a grocery store aren’t the same ones you’d want to use in a dental office. According to an article by Pioneer Painters², colors like blue, green, and other neutrals are the best choices for a medical practice. Blue especially can be calming and green can represent health and wellness.

When choosing colors, it’s best to stray away from dark or overly-saturated colors. Light and bright colors, like a sage green or sky blue can improve a patient’s experience in your office.

Consider Your Practice Type

It’s important to consider the type of practice you have when designing. Cartoon characters and different colors may make sense for a pediatric practice, but a clean, minimal design would translate better for a cosmetic practice.

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While lighting, paint colors, and seating may seem inconsequential, they can have a major impact. By thoughtfully considering the interior design of your practice, you can help to make it a more calming and welcoming environment for your patients.

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1. Emami, M., Pazhouhanfar, M., & Stoltz, J. (2024). Evaluating Patients’ Preferences for Dental Clinic Waiting Area Design and the Impact on Perceived Stress. Buildings, 14(10), 3160. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14103160 ↩︎
2. “Why Choosing the Right Colors for Your Medical Office Can Improve Patient Comfort.” Pioneer Painters. November 30, 2024. https://www.pioneer-painters.com/why-choosing-the-right-colors-for-your-medical-office-can-improve-patient-comfort ↩︎