Content Dam Diq Online Articles 2016 05 Themed Dental Office 1

Tech items to transform your patients’ dental experience

May 9, 2016
Today's dentists have many choices when it comes to making their patients' experiencing better. Technology is there to help, and there are many fun choices, from wall mounts to themed offices.
They say one in four people dread visiting the dentist. The good news is that dentists understand their patients’ fears and take measures to make the experience better for them. Gentleness, patience, and empathy are a few things that can make a dental treatment tension-free. But there are also many high-tech items targeted for dental practices that are conducive to a much more pleasant patient experience.

Fortunately, technology has evolved in a way that’s revolutionizing the way we go about our daily lives. Many would say it’s even becoming a distraction. Sometimes a little distraction is needed to ease our stresses, and thankfully this sort of distraction is making its way into our dental offices. Tech items targeted to the dental office market are injecting entertainment and efficiency to the treatment experience.

Here are some of the latest innovations in the dental tech world.

Molar media mount
If you’ve ever attempted to mount a TV, you’re likely aware of the headaches—and hefty price tag—that go with the task. Worst-case scenario is you spend your energy installing a TV into your wall, only to find out that the distant screen is inconveniently angled.

Now picture a mounting system that easily attaches to your dental light and provides patients a front row seat to their favorite movie. Or instead of a movie, perhaps some patients would rather catch up on the novel they’re reading on their Kindle. Whatever their preference, patients can prop up their 16 oz. tablet on a Molar Media Mount and release some of the stress they may be experiencing prior to getting their choppers checked. Best of all, their front row entertainment won’t cost you an arm or leg, or finger for that matter.

The Canary System
Nobody enjoys finding out they have a pesky cavity. Dental x-rays can only see so much, and they tend to detect tooth decay after it’s already formed. With The Canary System, dentists can detect and treat cracks and tooth decay in the early stages.

This instrument uses an intraoral camera with a low-powered laser beam to scan images of the tooth. The camera is strong enough to detect early signs of decay, as well as decay forming under sealants and fillings. The photos can be displayed immediately while a patient is in the chair. Immediate treatment can then be taken if needed. Studies show that regarding proximal tooth decay diagnosis, The Canary System showed 92% accuracy over bitewing radiography, which had 67% accuracy. Your patients will be more engaged and will appreciate your ability to treat problems before they become bigger.

Digital-themed offices
If your practice treats a lot of children, you may want to focus on making their experiences better. There’s a new trend taking over the world of dental practices called theming. It uses sculptures, custom digital wall murals, and unique seating designs that turn your dental office into a child’s dreamland.

There are instant theming options as well as custom theming that allow you to design a unique office that is truly your own. You can create everything from a photo-op area where children patients can pose and shine their pearly whites, or you can install a digital wall with built-in Xbox or PlayStation consoles.

No matter the size of your practice, there’s an option for you. Not only will it increase the hype around your practice, it will also create a fun environment, making the experience calmer and more enjoyable for young patients. Chances are pretty good their parents will appreciate it too.

The ultimate goal of any practice is to facilitate an experience that puts patients at ease. Thanks to today’s technological advancements, there are a variety of tools and instruments on the market that will help engage your patients and keep them coming back for more.

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Daphne Lefran has been writing about health-related topics for many years, and currently writes on behalf of the innovators at Molar Media Mount. In her spare time, she enjoys capturing moments through a camera lens, traveling to new and faraway places, and cheering on the Florida State Seminoles. Follow her on Twitter @daphnelefran or find her on LinkedIn.