Although they have nothing to do with dentistry, stained carpeting, worn upholstery, and marred walls reflect poorly on the practice. As dental competition intensifies, the importance of such seemingly trivial details grows. Patients lack the technical knowledge to judge clinical performance, but they are certainly capable of noticing poor maintenance. Keeping the appearance of the practice fresh and clean reinforces patient retention.
Conduct an "official" practice inspection. Lead the practice team in a thorough, objective walk-through of the office space -- especially areas that patients see. Look at everything through patients' eyes, making notes of deficiencies. Include cosmetic issues and also patient amenities in your inspection. Then develop a "to do" list with strict deadlines, and start the makeover!
Don't expose patients to an office that has "seen better days." A worn look suggests that the practice has lost its edge, is struggling, or simply doesn't care anymore. Psychologically, patients who get this impression when they walk in the door will feel less of a connection to the practice and may get the sense that it's time to move on to another dentist.
