An unexpected project

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Posted by: Dental Design 17th August 2022

Dr Vatche Kassardjian recently made the decision to relocate his practice. Though not something he had previously considered, he came across the right opportunity at the right time. He shares his experience of the process…

My lease was coming to an end on my original practice building and I was negotiating the renewal with the landlord. I actually hoped to move, but hadn’t made any progress on those plans. By chance, I came across a commercial property agent who had an interesting property on the market. I decided to just have a look – and 20 minutes later I fell in love with it. There was a lot more space and the shape of the building was better than the Victorian design we inhabited previously, which featured several interconnecting rooms. This was more conventional and therefore easier to utilise the space available, and on the high street for easy patient access. I saw so much potential I couldn’t walk away. It has all been a whirlwind ever since!

When it came to designing the new practice, I’d like to say it was methodical, but it was much more organic than that. I cautiously considered working with architects but wasn’t comfortable with the similarities of their designs – I wanted something different.

I’m very lucky to have a great relationship with Aram Designs, who brought my ideas to life or helped me realise where my vision was unrealistic. I would ask them how I could create a style or image and they would come up with a series of options, or let me know why an idea wouldn’t work in a certain space, and what alternatives may be a good idea.

The goal was to create a unique environment. For example, the building had been an art gallery for the previous 70 years and still featured the wooden battens where paintings would have hung, which we incorporated into our interior design. To reflect the ethos of the practice, I wanted to create an experience, not just a place for dental procedures. The dentistry can be of the highest quality, with good equipment and service, but if the environment is lacking, patients will notice. You’re only as good as your weakest point! We get some great feedback from patients, and people pop in asking, ‘what is this place, can I have a look around?’ which is a testament to what we have achieved.

The Clark Dental team were very supportive throughout the process and I feel very lucky to have worked with them. Matt Rowlingson was amazing through every aspect, helping to design the practice layout and the team were instrumental to our equipment choices. I was originally thinking about choosing the most economical chair to get everything open and working, and upgrading it later. However, I was a bit uneasy about that and knew my patients had become accustomed to a high quality of care – plus, my team and I liked to work in a cutting-edge environment.

I discussed all the Dentsply Sirona technology options with Matt, searching for a treatment centre that would be reliable, aesthetic and comfortable. The Sinius looked great, was clearly very well-manufactured and I liked that I could incorporate specialist motors such as for endodontics and surgical treatments. It’s highly efficient to have everything in one place making the equipment a pleasure to work with. Patients also notice the quality of their environment and the treatment centre can be adjusted to optimise the comfort of everyone who visits us.

Looking at other areas, James Beal at Clark Dental had previously introduced me to the Dentsply Sirona AE sensors and CBCT, which I ended up purchasing. These solutions – especially the CBCT – provide exceptional flexibility, with high-quality images, varying fields of view and simple operation. We added a lateral ceph arm for our orthodontist and referring dentists, and it’s great to have all those options available in one easy to use machine. The facilities have been an amazing addition for patient assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning, eliminating the need to refer out for advanced imaging. The team’s lives are easier without having to follow up with referral practices and patients appreciate our investment in high-tech machinery as well as the faster treatment times we can offer. In addition, the quality of the equipment affords confidence in the quality of treatment delivered as well.

When it came to the cabinetry, I chose the Edarredo range because it looks sleek and beautiful, is well-designed and practical. It’s also modular which makes it easier to arrange within the space and adapt as necessary. The clever design of the cabinets and mirrors, which open at the click of a button, take everything to a new level of sophistication. And the dental nurse loves using them every day – the novelty certainly hasn’t worn off yet!

Throughout everything, Clark Dental’s customer service and support were on another level. Even from early on when looking at potential dental chairs at the showroom, the team kept my son entertained so I could have a detailed look at the technology. They made equipment removal from the old practice effortless, leaving it very neat and tidy – the little things make a massive difference in this kind of process. They arranged the installation of the new equipment and training around us and ensured everything was as simple as possible. The team were well organised and knowledgeable, offering a premium service with plenty of added value. Clark Dental was truly a cut above the rest.

Upon reflection, I initially budgeted a rather optimistic figure for the refurbishment, but ended up spending over three times that after selecting truly state-of-the-art technologies. When you get started with a project like this, things snowball pretty quickly!

I also chose to project manage myself, which I did between patients and running the practice as best I could. It was difficult at an already stressful time, but I am very thankful to have such an amazing team who were outstanding throughout.

For others approaching a similar project, I would advise not to rush any decisions about equipment. It’s important to have a look around, visit showrooms, sit in the dental chairs and experience them first-hand so you know exactly what you’re getting – not just what looks good on paper. Also, I believe the true value of the companies you work with comes from the service you receive. Collaborating with an organisation that goes above and beyond is worth so much more than the price quoted!

For now, I am really enjoying the environment we have created and hope to continue building up the business in the coming months and years. I also have a much-needed holiday booked which I am definitely looking forward to!