I have entered the waiting area – waiting for my name to be called- waiting for my appointment- waiting with thoughts of hope and optimism – no major dental work please! Why is it that as my dental appointment nears, all my teeth suddenly show indications of potential trouble? Does that happen to you, too? My thoughts quickly turn to the end of the appointment when I am handed my new toothbrush and my entire body sighs with relief!
But meanwhile I am waiting . . . I am the only one in the waiting room. As I let go of my ‘dental phobia’, I suddenly notice what a wonderful space this is. It’s up to date, contemporary art on the walls, plenty of space for people to sit. A TV is on the wall in the corner, backlit shelves display artwork and dental information. Magazines are easily visible and accessible in an acrylic rack on the wall. What a great idea for keeping magazines orderly! From across the room I am able to decide which magazine will engross me while waiting. WOW! I notice that it holds not only magazines but also brochures on various dental concerns.
The U-shaped room gives enough distance from the open reception desk so that I am not drawn into their work conversations. I can watch the TV or read or be deep in my own thoughts and be perfectly at ease. Plenty of ‘personal space’ here. Lighting is varied and makes the space feel more living-room-like. Table lamps, the lighting from the shelves, track lighting, and wall sconces all add to this multi-layered and very pleasant illumination. The overall lighting makes reading comfortable and creates a softening that quiets the nervous dental patient who is waiting. Windows line the upper part of the interior wall and invite the light from the hallway to come into the waiting space.
Chairs are simple and offer good support. There is a mix of ‘chairs with arms’ and ‘chairs without’. What good thinking! This accommodates those who need assistance while getting up as well as those who may not comfortably fit into these supportive arms. Two signs acknowledge that there is1) free WIFI and 2) If you do not wish to watch television or if you wish to watch a different channel, please let us know. Both signs give the ‘patient in waiting’ permission to do so.
A small picture of the team of dentists is on the shelf to make them very recognizable. The artwork adds interest to the room. The greenery on the tables softens the angles of the room and its furniture while also adding an enjoyable aspect to the space.
Five others have joined me. ‘Susan’, the dental hygienist smiles as she calls my name, “We are ready for you.” The waiting is over and what a curious thing – my teeth seem rather normal now!
(Permission has been granted to feature this business.)
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