One of the first steps in expanding or launching a new practice is determining the space you need, based on current patient flow, as well as anticipated growth. The number of treatment rooms will dictate the square footage needed. A general rule of thumb is to allow about 400 square feet per dental chair, but this can vary depending on the specialties being provided, as well as the layout of the space. Also, be aware of any structural impediments, such as columns or irregularities in exterior walls that may impact how the space can be utilized. Knowing the square footage is just the start, however.

Being very purposeful with maximizing every square foot in the practice helps to protect your profits and ensure the best patient and team experience. To do so, partner with a contractor who has deep experience with dental practices, a dedicated team of designers, such as Henry Schein’s Integrated Design Studio (IDS), as well as your local Henry Schein equipment specialist, and share your vision of how you want the space to flow and function.

The right partners can help make the most of the functionality and efficiency of the space. They are familiar with the electrical, HVAC, plumbing, soundproofing and other requirements, and are experts in analyzing and understanding how a space can transform into a well-designed dental practice. Based on their experience designing other dental practices, they can work with you to create a space with harmonious design so that patients are greeted, seated and treated in a seamless process.

Your architect, equipment provider and design consultant can work together with you to plan out and design spaces based on three different functional zones (public/patient areas, treatment areas and private/team only areas), taking into account how patients and team members will navigate the space. This will help not only determine construction costs but ensure that the space aligns with your vision.

“Don't just look at the space as a checklist of items, but how you expect to utilize each area,” says Jennifer Rhode, senior manager of IDS. “Really think through how you're going to practice and how that ties into the flow and function of the space.” One time- and space-saving technique is to design a central sterilization center. Often, practices can’t get instruments through the sterilization process fast enough and end up having to invest in more instruments. By centralizing this process, you can increase the efficiency for instrument reprocessing and room turnover. The faster you can turn around instruments, the more patients you'll be able to see. The sterilization center should be no more than 30 feet from any treatment room to minimize the amount of time for clinical team members to get there. Next, streamline functions in the room with a dirty-to-clean linear flow.