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Dental Office Design Tips

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Dental Office Design Tips

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You are looking to build a dental office and have no idea where to start. Don’t worry because ProDental is here to help you!! With over 40 years of combined experience we’ve helped doctors just like you build their dream office within their budget and help them grow their patient base. Here are a few tips when looking to build out your own practice! 

Comfortable Dental Chairs

When designing your opertories you should base the design on the dental unit because everything else will flow around the chair. Having comfortable dental chairs that function efficiently is your number one priority! This is where your patients will sit during procedures and cleanings so you want them to feel comfortable and at ease.

Great Lighting

Natural Lighting, Task Lighting, and Ambient Lighting. You need a great balance of all three in order to make your office bright, minimize eye strain, and perform surgical work. There are a number of different designs on the market today for light fixtures, so no matter what type of environment you’re trying to create in your dental office, you’re sure to find something to suit your needs.

Comfortable Staff Break Out Space

Your staff works hard, so make sure to consider a place for them to take a breather and sit down. It’s important that your office is comfortable for your patients and your staff. After all, the happier your staff is, the happier your patients will be. In other words, it’s a win/win!

Dental Cabinets That Fit Your Space And Enhance Your Workflow

Designing your dental cabinetry is another huge component to an office. When designing your cabinetry you want to think about the order you work, especially when designing your sterilization area. The right dental cabinet design can make a world of difference in terms of both form and function.

Dental Delivery System

Chair delivery or rear support delivery systems are the most common systems. Choose the system that works best for you and your staff and design your space with this in mind. 

Efficient Floor Plan

Ensure your sterilization center is in a central location that is equal distance from all ops to maximize efficiency and reduce time spent transporting equipment and supplies back and forth from one end or your office to the other. Have a specific idea in mind? We can make it happen! Not sure where to start? We’d love to help!

Comfortable Waiting Room

Make your office inviting and comfortable for your patients to reduce anxiety before their appointment. By creating a calming and relaxing atmosphere you can dispel their fears. Having toys and games for kids is a must for keeping them happy and cooperative before and during their appointment. Choose colors that are calming and soothing to decorate your space with and whether your patients actively notice it or not, you can help to subtly put them at ease.

We understand that after reading all this you may be overwhelmed….don't worry, that is completely normal! That is why we are here, we want to help you build the office you've been dreaming of since starting dental school. Contact us at 502.299.8633 or todd@prodental.co to get more information on how ProDental can help you build/design your next office!

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Handpiece Maintenance + Repair 101

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Handpiece Maintenance + Repair 101

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Performing proper handpiece maintenance can prolong the life of your tools, keep them working like new, and leave them less likely to need frequent repairs. Each section below lists procedures and tips you can use to improve the quality of your handpieces.

 

High-Speed Handpieces

  1. Clean the external surface with warm water using a cloth or brush.
  2. Insert a bur into the chuck of the handpiece. Spray lubricant into the drive air tube for 2 to 3 seconds until the lubricant comes out of the head of the handpiece. If the handpiece uses a quick disconnect coupler, use the appropriate adapter on the lubricant can.
  3. Slightly rotate the bur to loosen any debris in the head of the handpiece.
  4. Attach the handpiece to the supply line. Run the handpiece for 10-20 seconds or until all lubricant is expressed from the head.
  5. Remove the bur and wipe the handpiece to remove excessive lubricant.
  6. Place the handpiece in a bag for autoclaving.

 

Slow-Speed Handpieces

Motors: 

  1. Clean the external surface with warm water using a cloth or brush and dry with a paper towel.
  2. Place three drops of oil or a one second blast of spray lubricant into the air tube.
  3. Attach the motor to a supply line and operate for 30 seconds alternating the direction ring to disperse the lubricant.
  4. Wipe the motor to remove excessive lubricant if necessary.

Nose Cones:

  1. Remove from the motor and clean the external surface with warm water using a cloth or brush and dry with a paper towel.
  2. Place three drops of oil or a one second blast of spray lubricant into the chuck and back end.
  3. Attach the motor to a supply line and operate for 30 seconds until all lubricant is expressed.
  4. Wipe the motor to remove excessive lubricant if necessary.

Contra Angle & Latch Heads:

  1. Disconnect contra angle from the latch head.
    Clean the external surface of each with warm water using a cloth or brush and dry with a paper towel.
  2. Place three drops of oil or a one second blast of spray lubricant into both ends of the contra angle.
  3. Place three drops of oil or a one second blast of spray lubricant into the chuck of the latch head and one drop of oil on each gear and center hole of the shaft.
  4. Reassemble and attach to the motor and operate for 30 seconds until all lubricant is expressed.
  5. Wipe the motor to remove excessive lubricant if necessary.

 

Electric Handpieces

  1. Remove the handpiece from the motor.
  2. Clean the external surface of each with warm water using a cloth or brush.
  3. Insert a bur into the chuck of the handpiece. Attach an E-type adapter to the spray lubricant, insert the adapter into the back-end and spray for 2 to 3 seconds until the lubricant comes out the head of the handpiece.
  4. Slightly rotate the bur to loosen any debris in the head of the handpiece.
  5. Attach the handpiece to the motor. Run the handpiece for 10-20 seconds or until all lubricant is expressed from the head. If the lubricant is discolored, repeat step #3 until the lubricant is clear.
  6. Remove the bur and wipe the handpiece to remove excessive lubricant.
  7. Place the handpiece in a bag for autoclaving.

 

Other Tips

  1. Check to ensure that your delivery unit air pressure is set to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Most handpiece drive air pressures are between 32-42 PSI. The air pressure should be measured at the handpiece connection to the supply tubing. This will produce the most accurate reading possible. Increasing air pressure will not increase handpiece performance due to increased back pressure, but may damage the turbine.
  2. Never tighten any manual chuck without a bur in place, or you may damage the chuck.
  3. Never operate any handpiece without a bur securely in place. Do not depress the push button of a handpiece during operation. This may open the chucking mechanism and release the bur.

 

When choosing your handpiece provider the two biggest factors to look into is the quality and the warranty. Here at ProDental we offer a six month warranty on all handpieces with no callbacks to date. We repair low-speed, high-speed, and electric handpieces. Need handpiece repair now? Call us today at 502-299-8633 and we will come pick up your handpieces for repair. Just recently had yours repaired? Call us and we will mail you handpiece repair boxes with pre-paid shipping labels! 

 

ProDental

Your Handpiece Partner

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Top Five Points to Review Before Selling Your Practice

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Top Five Points to Review Before Selling Your Practice

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You’ve been thinking about selling your dental practice. It hasn’t been an easy decision, but now that you’ve started to think about it, you realize you don’t know how to go about it or what to do next. We have helped many dentists make the successful transition, and we are here to provide you with a list of the top five things you should do before selling your practice.

 

1. Meet with your financial advisor.

You should confirm that you can afford to sell your practice. Wanting to and being able to afford to are two different things. You may be surprised. If you have never had a financial plan prepared, now is a good time to have one done. With cycles of instability in the financial markets, you may find that you’ll have to put your plans on hold for a few more years, or conversely, you’ll feel quite confident that the practice sale proceeds will only enhance your retirement lifestyle.

 

2. Make sure you get a comprehensive practice evaluation.

If you use a broker, retain one who will prepare a certified valuation. Most brokers who prepare formal valuations will credit the valuation fee against the sales commission. Beware of “FREE” practice valuations, which will not necessarily serve your best interest. You want a certified valuation that takes into account a full valuation of all the physical attributes of your practice, including the location, office, equipment, and other items that go into a detailed analysis. In addition, a practice valuation must take into account intangible assets and goodwill, which often make up a sizable portion of your practice assets. 

 

3. Do not slow down or work fewer days.

When you do this, oftentimes you stop accepting new patients as well. This will hurt your practice’s value and make a purchaser less interested in buying a declining practice. It can also harm your gross receipts and, ultimately, the sale price of your practice.

 

4. Evaluate the condition of your facility.

While you don’t necessarily have to make any large capital expenditures, first impressions are important. You should make repairs to things that are broken and cosmetic enhancements (e.g., fresh paint, new carpet, clean up the exterior if you are on the street so that there is curb appeal). You want your practice to look aesthetically appealing, clean, and maintained, even if it’s not the most modern. First impressions are always important.

 

5. Be realistic in your timing.

Sometimes, we get calls from doctors who want to sell their practice in six months or less! This is an almost impossible task for any broker. We tell prospective sellers to give a broker 9 to 12 months to sell a practice if they want to avoid a fire sale.

In the end, a good deal of planning is necessary for you to really get your practice ready to be put on the market. Careful planning will give you the highest return and, most important, peace of mind. For those of you who are thinking about selling your practice in the next few years, here are some key points to consider when getting ready for that big event. Failure to do so may result in getting a lower value or not being able to get a transaction that you can live with!

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The Biggest Threat to Your Practice Could Be You

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The Biggest Threat to Your Practice Could Be You

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THE BIGGEST THREAT TO YOUR PRACTICE COULD BE YOU

Cyberattacks and security breaches are some of the scariest risks to your dental practice. That’s why we are here to share tips and recommendations to help you safeguard your network, patient data, and your practice. Most practices are aware of the danger that cybercriminals pose to their business and patient privacy. However, did you know the potential harm caused by regular, everyday human error is the most dangerous threat to your practice’s cybersecurity?

Here’s a look at some of the more common human errors that could put your practice at risk.

 

WEAK AND/OR REPETITIVE PASSWORDS

Weak passwords are easy targets for cybercriminals. Additionally, if one of your employees is involved in a data breach and they happen to use the same password across all their accounts, that could give cybercriminals access to your whole network of data including employee W2’s, patient data, and billing information.

 

EMAIL SCAMS/PHISHING

If just one employee isn’t paying enough attention to their email and falls for a phishing scam, it could expose your practice to a data breach or ransomware attack. Something like this could shut down your office(s) for days or even weeks.

Think about how much that could hurt your dental practice’s revenue and reputation.

 

SOCIAL MEDIA MISTAKES

An intentionally innocent photo posted to social media with PII (Personal Identifiable Information) or PHI (Personal Health Information) visible in frame could lead to a data breach or a HIPAA violation. Don’t let a poorly thought-out selfie to be the reason you have to deal with an onslaught of audits, HIPAA penalties, and compliance issues – not to mention lawsuits.

 

EQUIPMENT LOSS OR THEFT

Something like a lost or stolen phone could be detrimental if that employee used their personal phone for work. A hacker could use that hardware to break into your integral

systems that hold private patient and employee data. Not as easy to fix as simply replacing a smartphone.

 

TAKE THE FEAR OUT OF CYBER THREATS

All these missteps are unintentional, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t plan for them. Make sure that you’re giving your staff proper cybersecurity training and that you have a disaster recovery plan in place. Be vigilant in making sure no one on your team falls for scams.

Fortunately, at ProDental we help practices like yours prevent these sorts of threats/attacks from happening. We can help alleviate the fear surrounding your cybersecurity for your dental practice. We provide cybersecurity solutions, training, and HIPAA consultation to help protect your practice against cyber threats. This includes risk assessments & reporting, dark web monitoring, vulnerability scans, employee education, compliance training, and more. Take the fear out of cyber threats to your practice.

Contact us for a free consult and rest easier all 12 months of the year!

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Dental Practice Marketing

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Dental Practice Marketing

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Dental Practice Marketing

 

Whether your practice just opened or has been around for 45 years, we all need marketing! There are so many dentist offices just within 10 miles, how do you stand out from the rest? Creating an account on social media platforms is a great way to start; Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The easiest way to create posts is through Canva, with its easy and ready-to-use templates. When setting up your Canva account, go ahead and create a brand kit, this will include your color scheme, fonts you’d like to use, logos, and photos. Now that you have your accounts ready to go, let's get started on key components to remember when creating content!

 

Consistency is Key

 

We’ve all heard it before and it is true, consistency is key! Posting daily will help your profile keep popping up and remind your recurring and new patients to schedule their appointments with you! The best way to stay consistent is by scheduling posts and creating a marketing calendar. Sit down every month and thoughtfully plan out and schedule all your posts. You will be greatly surprised to see how little time and effort this takes with big results!

 

Be Authentic with Your Patients

 

Your patients want to see the real you! That may be showing a day in the life, showcasing your staff, doing a Q&A, or maybe a behind-the-scenes of your office, they want to see it all!! When being authentic, it shows your patients you are more than their dentists and you truly care about them. 

 

Showcase Everything You Have to Offer

 

Showcase all your services to your patients, this will keep them invested. You can do this by showing patient testimonials, before/after photos, items you may sell, and maybe even throw in a giveaway or two. Giveaways are a great way to gain new patients by asking your followers to tag a friend or two in the comments. This will start a chain effect by getting your new followers to tag more friends! 

 

Be Informative

 

You may be thinking, why would my patients want to know more about a root canal? Believe it or not, they do!! Your patients want to hear it directly from you, not Google. When hearing it from you, there's a sense of trust and ease. Some are terrified to come to their appointment, especially when needing an extensive procedure. Seeing a play-by-play can help ease those scary thoughts. 

 

Conclusion

 

Marketing will help grow your practice when done thoughtfully and effectively. While it may seem intimidating at first, it is extremely beneficial. Maybe you don’t have time or don’t know what to post, but that’s okay!! There are so many marketing firms and freelance marketers who can help and work within your marketing budget. Just remember, when it comes to marketing, you get out what you put in!

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Handheld X-Ray VS Wall Mounted X-Ray

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Handheld X-Ray VS Wall Mounted X-Ray
Which is Best for Your Practice?

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Dental technology is constantly evolving, offering dentists a range of options to choose from. One notable advancement is the rise of handheld X-ray devices as an alternative to traditional wall-mounted devices. Handheld X-ray machines offer flexibility and mobility, allowing for easy movement between operatories and reducing operational bottlenecks. Wall-mounted X-ray machines are restricted to one fixed location, requiring more in-operatory space and can be challenging for smaller operatories.

 

Handheld X-ray machines are designed with ergonomics in mind, reducing strain for the operator and reducing the learning curve. They also allow for more efficient workflows but can be cumbersome and time-consuming to achieve.

 

Handheld X-ray machines are less physically intimidating for anxious patients and pediatric practices, providing a more personalized and reassuring experience when capturing images. They can also be used by patients with injuries or disabilities, offering imagining while reclined, seated, and more.

 

Mounted X-ray machines are static, ensuring faster sessions but may appear more daunting for carers. Handheld X-ray machines can be more efficient, as they bring the imaging to the patient, reducing time spent shuttling patients between operatories and dedicated imaging rooms.

 

Handheld X-ray machines offer efficiency and convenience, as they can be used immediately upon arrival and require minimal installation. However, they carry an increased risk of being dropped, but maintenance is straightforward. Mounted X-ray machines require a dedicated space and professional assistance, and maintenance can be more challenging. Handheld X-ray machines have shielded designs to protect operators from scattered radiation, reducing the need for retakes and additional radiation exposure. Mounted X-ray machines require operators to leave the room during imaging, which reduces the risk of radiation exposure. However, older wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted machines may produce suboptimal images, requiring re-imaging and re-exposures.

 

Handheld X-ray machines offer benefits like reduced installation hassle, fewer maintenance challenges, and increased operational flexibility, making them a more cost-effective choice in the long run. Wall-mounted machines, with a potentially lower initial cost and widespread knowledge of their maintenance, can offer economical solutions for practices on a tighter budget. However, installation, maintenance, and operational inefficiencies can add up over time.

 

While traditional wall-mounted X-ray machines have served dental practices well for years and offer a more familiar operator experience, it's hard to ignore the flexibility and precision of newer handhelds. Their ease of use also makes newer handheld models an enticing option for practices looking to streamline operations and create the perception of a modern patient-centric practice.


Ultimately, the choice between a handheld X-ray or a mounted X-ray machine will depend on your practice’s budgetary considerations, operational priorities, and your comfort levels and preferences.

 

To reduce radiation risk and improve safety, ensure you follow these guidelines:

  1. Adherence to protocol and proper operation: Ensure staff are trained, have access to continuing education, and are regularly tested on radiation protocols.
  2. Personal protection: Provide lead aprons, gloves, and protective eyewear to minimize exposure. Operators can use personal dosimeters to monitor their exposure daily, especially for pregnant staff.
  3. Maintenance and monitoring: Regularly inspect imaging devices and protective equipment to ensure proper operation and early detection of damage or wear.
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Why Choosing a Smaller Dental Service Company is a Big Win for Your Practice

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Why Choosing a Smaller Dental Service Company is a Big Win for Your Practice

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Introduction

When it comes to equipping and servicing your dental practice, the options can seem endless. While large corporations may dominate the industry, there’s an undeniable charm and a long list of benefits that come with partnering with smaller dental service companies. In this blog, we'll delve into the compelling reasons why a smaller service company like ProDental might be the perfect fit for your practice.

 

Personalized Service

One of the primary advantages of working with a smaller company is the level of personalized service you receive. Smaller firms often take the time to get to know you, your staff, and the unique needs of your practice. This level of familiarity allows them to tailor their services, making sure that the equipment and support they provide precisely match your requirements.

 

Quick Decision-Making and Flexibility

Bureaucracy can slow down the wheels of progress in any organization, and large companies are no exception. Smaller service providers have a more straightforward decision-making process, which translates to quicker service for you. If you need an emergency equipment repair or an immediate response to an IT issue, a smaller company can usually deliver the assistance you need without the red tape.

 

Local Expertise

Smaller dental service companies are often locally based, meaning they have an intimate understanding of the local market conditions, regulations, and needs. This localized knowledge can provide invaluable insights and benefits to your practice that a large, nationally-based company might overlook.

 

Quality Over Quantity

Smaller companies survive and thrive based on the quality of their service, not just the volume of their sales. You can often expect a higher level of craftsmanship, expertise, and attention to detail when you opt for a smaller service provider. They are more likely to go the extra mile to ensure you are completely satisfied with their service, as each client holds significant value for them.

 

Cost-Effective Solutions

Large companies often have equally large overhead costs, which can drive up the prices of their products and services. Smaller companies typically have lower operating costs, and those savings are often passed on to you. Moreover, their local presence may eliminate shipping fees or reduce service call charges, offering additional cost benefits.

 

Better Relationship Building

With smaller companies, you're not just another client among thousands. The chance for building a meaningful and mutually beneficial business relationship is much higher. Smaller firms value your business more, and they're usually more invested in your success. The continuity of dealing with the same team members fosters trust, making communications smoother and more effective.

 

Conclusion

Choosing a dental service company is an important decision that impacts the efficiency and effectiveness of your practice. While large companies have their merits, the personalized service, cost-effectiveness, and local expertise offered by smaller companies make them an appealing choice for many dental professionals.

So, the next time you're evaluating your dental service options, don't overlook the smaller players in the field. They may offer precisely what you've been looking for—top-notch, personalized services that fit perfectly with your practice's needs.