Light-filled and spacious, this implant and surgical unit is independent of yet contiguous with the existing, more conventional NHS dental clinic. Key design concerns were state-of-the-art ergonomic efficiency and cross infection control, as achieved using a planning approach and purpose-designed fittings perfected in a series of prior projects. Also important are the abundant natural light and the serene atmosphere in both the warmly wood-floored patient areas and the more clinical surgeries and staff-only zones.
The design and fit-out of the clinic to not only ensure optimal ergonomics and efficiency, and control cross infection, but also to enhance the whole experience of being there for patients, dentists and dental staff. He felt these are all of apiece, each (including ambience and aesthetics) reinforcing the other in a positive feedback loop of raised performance and patient expectations.
For ergonomic efficiency and to eliminate cross infection the sky lit surgeries are positioned in between separate circulation for patients and staff. Twin surgeries for each dentist allow one to be cleaned and prepared while the other is in use, which is proven to considerably increase productivity. Separating surgeries and staff circulation are purpose-designed double-access equipment cabinets. In this, or in the mobile trolleys parked below it, is all necessary equipment, leaving a compact and uncluttered surgery. All worktops and cabinet doors, as well as the frosted screens and doors between the surgery and the patient circulation, are in “seen to be clean” glass. The theatre for specialist surgical procedures is bigger than the others. There is also a separate consulting room and admin office, behind which is the new sterilisation unit with “dirty” and “clean” procedures in separate rooms and a separate scrub area.
