A dental office provides a variety of oral health services to patients. These facilities can be run by a single practitioner, or they can have multiple dentists and hygienists working together. In addition to providing standard oral treatment, many dental offices offer cosmetic services such as teeth whitening and straightening. Many of these facilities also provide educational materials and other resources for patients to improve their oral health.
A major benefit of visiting a dental office is the personal relationship a patient can develop with their provider. Most dental offices have smaller staffs, so it’s easier for a dentist to get to know their patients and understand their needs. This can make the experience less stressful for the patient. Dental offices often have a longer appointment schedule than some clinics, which can allow the dentist to take a more thorough approach to evaluating and treating the patient’s needs.
Typically, a dental office will contain a consultation room and the dental treatment area. The consultation room is where the initial discussion of a patient’s diagnosis and potential treatment takes place. The dental treatment area, also known as the dental operatory, is where most of the actual dental work takes place. This room contains all of the clinical equipment needed to perform treatments. This includes dental chairs, digital X-rays systems, and any other tools or equipment necessary for an examination or treatment. Some dental equipment is expensive, such as laser drills and CEREC single visit crowns. In these cases, the office may lease this equipment rather than own it outright.
The administrative area is where the business aspects of a dental practice take place. This includes a reception desk and a secured area where patient records are kept. Computers and telephone systems may also be located in this area. In larger practices, there is often a separate room where the staff works on insurance claims and other related duties.
Many people use the terms dental clinic and dental office interchangeably, but these are two different settings that each offer distinct benefits to patients. A dental clinic is usually associated with a hospital, school or government office and provides services on an emergency basis or to low-income patients. A dental clinic can also be found at some dental schools, where students treat patients under the supervision of their instructors as part of their instruction.
While the difference between a dental clinic and a dental office is subtle, the experience a patient has at each location can be very different. It is important for patients to understand the differences in order to decide which setting would be the best fit for their individual needs. For example, for a patient who requires a more extensive procedure, having the same dental professional by their side throughout the process can help alleviate any fears or anxiety they might have. This isn’t always possible in a dental clinic, where the patient is treated by whoever is available at that time.