Many people experience anxiety when they go to the dentist. For some people, the anxiety becomes a hurdle that prevents them from scheduling routine exams or even much-needed dental procedures.
While anxiety over visiting the dentist is so widespread, it doesn’t have to be. Make the process easier with these tips for making patients more comfortable at the dentist.
1. Make the Waiting Room Inviting
Your dental practice’s waiting room can help alleviate a patient’s anxiety. Create an inviting space with comfortable furniture and interior design aspects like calming colors and textures. Maximize the sunlight in the room and consider playing soft, calming music at a low volume.
Entertainment can help patients relax, so having a TV with closed captioning is a good idea. You can also provide magazines for patients to flip through. Of course, many people prefer to use their phones for entertainment, so offer free Wi-Fi and charging stations to keep people at ease.
2. Use a Comfortable Dental Chair
One of the most crucial tips for making dental patients more comfortable is to sit them in a supportive dental chair. Once the patient is in the exam room, they will spend most of the time in the chair. Many of the features of an ideal dental chair help patients relax.
Choose a chair with a wide range of positioning capabilities. This way, you can find the right position that accommodates the patient’s comfort and the working hygienist or dentist’s needs. As far as the patient’s physical comfort is concerned, the dental chair is the most important piece of furniture in your facility.
3. Communicate Clearly
Finally, communicate clearly to the patient about what you’re doing and about how they’re feeling. While creating an inviting space and using comfortable furniture eases your patient’s anxiety, you and your staff’s pleasant demeanor will help the most.
Understand that many people feel different levels of fear or anxiety, so you should speak in a friendly manner. Let the patient know what to expect during their treatment or examination. Periodically ask how they’re feeling and let them know that everything is progressing well. By staying friendly, empathetic, and communicative, you let your patient know they’re in good hands.
Conclusion
When dental patients feel respected, understood, and welcomed, they are more likely to return to your practice and appreciate your work. Create an inviting space by starting with the waiting room and investing in comfortable dental chairs that help your patients feel secure. Finally, communicate your actions clearly, ask how the patient feels, and respond empathetically. These tips for making patients more comfortable at their dentist appointments will create a positive experience for everyone.
