5 Quick & Inexpensive Dental Office Makeover Tips

The reception room is the first and most impressionable space in your practice. What’s your waiting room saying about you and your practice? The end of the year is a perfect time to take stock of this impressionable space. Often, because we see it on a daily basis, we tend to overlook little things that are obvious to visitors, such as dated or dog-eared magazines, chipped wall paint, or faded artwork. Have someone you know and trust wall through your space and give you honest feedback. And take to heart… enhancing your reception area need not break the bank. We’ve provided links to companies that offer affordable amenities for your office. Here are 5 quick and inexpensive decorating ideas to revitalize your reception room:

1. Color sets the mood!

   One of the quickest and most affordable ways to transform your reception room is with paint. The color of your reception room is one of the most important decorating decisions you can make. It attracts and sets the mood for your office and speaks volumes to your patients. Say ‘goodbye’ to white walls! Use warm, neutral, and inviting paint colors which help ease any tension and anxiety patients may be feeling about their appointment. Click here to learn more about choosing the best paint colors for your reception room.

2. Background music soothes and calms!

   Consider all of the senses when enhancing your reception room. Just as paint color can have a calming effect, so can music. Soothing background music without commercial breaks releases mood enhancing chemicals in the brain and can help contribute to a relaxed state of mind. Choose music that is instrumental and lyric-free. It should contribute to the overall effect of your reception room, but not subtract from conversations that are taking place between patients and team members. Additionally, you’ll be glad to know that what’s good for patients is also good for your employees. In a recent large-scale study, 87 percent of businesses said that background music improved employee morale and productivity. Consider Internet-delivered background music providers such as Pandora. It provides a wide variety of music and allows you to instantaneously update your musical selection.

3. Artwork can jump-start conversations!

   Spruce up your walls with beautiful and serene artwork or photographs that complement your office’s style. Avoid poster art which tends to fade over time, and instead, opt for a large piece of canvas artwork or a series of murals on the walls. Also, let your personality shine through. If you are an avid hiker, consider nature scenes. If you like to garden, consider beautiful florals. Enjoy water sports? Think soothing beach or costal scenes. Showcasing artwork that reflects your personal interests is a great conversation starter. Z Gallerie offers a stylish and affordable selection of artwork.

4. Real plants or flowers provide an organic touch!

   Plants are a great addition to any space, and studies show they generate feelings of vitality and well-being in waiting rooms that otherwise may feel stark or cold. Take care of your plants; their appearance and health makes an important statement about your practice. Healthy and thriving plants send a message that the doctor and team care. Also, avoid fake or ‘permanent’ plants which tend to collect dust. There are various internet companies that offer a wide variety and affordable selection of exotic plants and flowers which can be delivered weekly to your office door.

5. Patient amenities show you care!

   Be sure to consider the comfort and needs of your patients when revitalizing your reception room by adding patient-friendly features, such as a complimentary drink station, coat rack, tissue bar, and hand sanitizers. Also, be sure to provide a wide selection of current reading material including books and magazines.