| Outlined below are just a few recommendations to make your office planning a little easier. |
WAITING ROOM -Three seats per operatory chair
-Most seating is 2’ x 2’
-Group modular seating maximizes seating potential
-Recessed cans or incandescent lights provide softer atmosphere
-This room presents new patients with first impressions; keep it neat and sharp
-Provide a closet or hooks for patients coats and sweaters
-Use commercial grade carpeting, no padding which breaks down under heavy traffic 
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RECEPTION AREA -Build soffits which provide separation of space and sound attenuation
-To 45" high transaction counter with 27" to 29" desk height
-Provide low separate work areas, one for check-in and one for check-out
-Laminates hold up better than wood materials for reception desk
-Provide ability for patients or parents to use a phone
-Utilize wall space for overhead cabinets where feasible to maximize storage
-Design area for future computers, fax machines, and copiers
-Insure adequate lighting for staff
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CONSULTATION / EXAM ROOM -Provide room for an exam chair with a fully equipped delivery system
-Room should have a hand washing sink
-Table to accommodate a minimum of four people
-Keep towards front office and a second door for staff entry where possible
-Design area for future computer, audio/visual, and imaging equipment
-Room can be used as overflow and adult treatment
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PRIVATE OFFICE -Generally smaller than in the past, 60-80 sf. is typical
-Keep close to operatory with window looking into operatory if possible
-A private bath with a shower seems nice but generally the shower becomes a storage closet
-Provide utilities for future computer and fax machine
-Use a built-in desk to take advantage of the small space
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RECORDS ROOM -Fully plumb chair so that it can be used for overflow
-Leave enough space for future panoramic machine
-Adequate counter space for mixing
-Bubbler or cuspidor should be used
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DARKROOM -Space can double as storage or mechanical room
-Ensure room is light tight
-Automatic processors are expensive, but are more efficient and labor saving
-If space is available provide a deep sink for cleaning rollers in the same room
-Daylight loaders eliminates the need for a darkroom but are a hassle to use
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LAB -This room doubles as your major storage area, so plan adequately
-Keep in mind OHSA guidelines if you were considering using this area as a staff lounge
-This room is noisy so provide sound insulation
-Try to setup a dry and wet area but two rooms are not necessary
-Windows in a lab are nice but take away overhead storage capabilities
-If possible provide a pass through from the Records room into the Lab
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STERILIZATION -Room should be setup with a minimum of 8 linear feet of counter space
-Don’t lock yourself into any one system when designing your cabinetry
-Utilize overhead cabinets for tray setups and supplies
-Locate close to operatory, provide walls to distinguish space
-Think about procedures before locating sink in counter
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OPERATORY -Space required will depend on delivery system being used
-Plan efficient traffic flow, this could limit your growth in the future
-Generally one sink per two chairs, infrared controls require greater maintenance
-Leave 2 feet between the wall and the foot of the chair as a minimum
-Patient chairs are typically 2 feet wide by 6 feet long
-Generally 5.5 to 6.5 feet on centers for chairs depending on the delivery system
-There are no regulations limiting use of carpets in the operatory
-Open operatory is still most popular
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MISCELLANEOUS Storage, Storage Storage, you can have enough
On deck benches near the operatory reduce waiting room seating requirements and increase
productivity
You are required to provide handicap accessible restrooms if no public facilities are located in the building
All public restrooms and mechanical rooms should be sound insulated and vented
Stand-up consult desk near reception desk improves communications with parents.
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