Technology-Infused Patient Care: The Stern Weber S380 Experience

Dive into the heart of Northshore Dental Care where patient comfort and satisfaction intertwine with cutting-edge equipment.

By Danny Chan

To cultivate a loyal patient base that not only returns but also enthusiastically refers their friends, you must focus on delivering a positive experience. Dentistry, unfortunately, grapples with a less-than-ideal public perception, and it’s your responsibility to alter that perception. 

Some choose to elevate the dopamine levels of their customers through a spa-like environment. Others offer free wifi and coffee at their waiting rooms to boost their social media quotient. The dental professionals at Northshore Dental Care take pride in their office’s high-tech, high-touch approach, which they believe fosters an environment where patients not only leave feeling highly satisfied but also become eager to share their experience with others.

“Our practice philosophy regarding patient care is that dentistry doesn’t have to be traumatic and, in many cases, can be quite comfortable,” says principal dentist, Dr Oliver Strachan.

“This goes hand in hand with our understanding that new technologies can help to reduce the invasiveness and morbidity associated with many procedures,” he explains.

Epicentre of Your Practice

Just like in any team sport, it’s not the efforts of one team member or a single play that secures victory. Likewise, the cultivation of patient comfort in your dental office doesn’t find its roots in a single piece of equipment or instrument, but rather emerges from the harmonious synergy of various technologies. 

That said, the dental unit, which is strategically positioned at the epicentre of your dental practice, plays a pivotal role.

“Patient comfort is a huge factor in providing a high standard of patient care.” Dr Strachan adds. “My style of practice tends towards quadrant or arch therapy, so naturally the choice of dental chair plays an important role in my being able to complete long sessions for my patients while maintaining their comfort.

Synergy of High-Tech, High-Touch Dentistry

Dr Strachan and his dedicated team at Northshore Dental Care are committed to delivering top-notch care while embracing cutting-edge materials and techniques. They leverage digital intraoral scanning technology, high-resolution 3D radiology, and CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacture) to offer comprehensive procedures often in a single visit.

“I have found that integrating technologies such as intraoral scanning and guided implant surgery have made a substantial improvement in patient experience,” the principal dentist explains.

“Without fail, every time I use the intraoral scanner my patients are blown away to realise that they no longer need to suffer through the ‘gooey mouthful’ of a PVS impression.

“The same can be said of patients who experience in house CBCT/OPG, single visit fixed prosthodontics, guided implant surgery and particle abrasion prophylaxis. Patients can benefit from improved treatment experience, accessibility and value. The business benefits from improved patient satisfaction and retention, streamlining protocols and adding services.”

Impact of Stern Weber S380 on Patient-Centred Care

This commitment to staying at the forefront of dental technology and patient care led Dr Strachan to make a significant decision. He invested in the Stern Weber S380 dental unit, a choice that resonated with their patient-centred approach.

“The Stern Webber S380 meets the criteria I have for a dental unit. The chair itself is comfortable to lay in and can be adjusted easily to make patients comfortable,” Dr Strachan stresses. 

The Stern Weber S380 offers a multifaceted experience that defines modern dentistry. Its technological prowess is highlighted by the incorporation of ergonomics that prioritise the well-being of both patients and dental staff. The patient chair itself offers synchronised movements and lateral seat rotation, ensuring a holistic and comfortable experience.

“Particularly, the headrest with the pneumatic release is excellent. Also, the continental delivery system with the whip arms is excellent. It is stable and handles heavier loads, as in oral surgery,” he continues.

“The whip arms allow me to work with minimal resistance on the handpiece lines. Once finished, the instruments retract quickly and quietly thanks to the autoclavable cover for the handpiece rests. 

“The electric micromotor has allowed me to complete endodontics and implant placement without the inconvenience of additional motors and their trolleys. The price point of the Stern Webber was another factor involved in purchasing the unit.”

Gimme a Knee-break!

Other standout features include the Knee-break function and the Control Panel with Multi-Touch Display.

“My patients and I all like the knee break feature of the chair. I have quite a few patients who have limited mobility or are wheelchair bound. The Stern Weber S380 has been a great change for those patients who struggle to get in and out of conventional dental chairs,” he elaborates.

“The rest of my patients are thrilled with the novelty of having a dental chair spin them around into a sitting position.”

The chair’s gentle, vibration-free movement is designed to induce a sense of relaxation in the patient, effectively alleviating any potential treatment-related anxiety. Furthermore, access is both straightforward and comfortable, facilitated by the motor-driven rotational motion.

Echoing this fact, Dr Strachan says the most significant change between the Stern Weber S380 chair and his previous chairs is the enhanced ease of access for patients getting in and out of the chair.

“The knee break feature allows me to get patients seated, supine and comfortable with less time and stress for those with mobility issues,” he shares.

“My patients have found the new chair great. Particularly my elderly or infirmed patients.”

Smartphone-like Interface

The user interface of the Stern Weber S380 is known as a marvel of clarity and customisation. Its 7″ multitouch display grants dentists precise control over dynamic instruments, integrated hygiene systems, and multimedia features. This comprehensive interface is reminiscent of smartphone-like controls, enhancing user-friendliness.

“The control panel is a good size,” Dr Strachan agrees. “It is easier to read and manipulate than other chairs which I have used previously.”

Ivoclar’s Exceptional Customer Service

Giving the Stern Weber S380 a perfect “10” score, the dentist declares: “The chair has met my every need.”

Dr Strachan was equally satisfied with the sales team at Ivoclar, the Australia-wide equipment dealer for Stern Weber, giving enthusiastic thumbs up assessing their pre-and post-sales customer service.

“Dealing with the team at Ivoclar in Brisbane is always a good experience,” he praises. 

“They are easily reachable, accommodating of busy schedules, knowledgeable and prompt in their replies. It is one of the reasons I like to do business with Ivoclar where possible.”

For dental practitioners considering a similar investment in advanced dental equipment, Dr Strachan offers valuable advice:

“I believe in reinvestment into your own business. In the case of the Stern Weber, excellent patient comfort, ease of use and the aesthetics of the unit make it a worthwhile investment,” he adds.

“As in the case with other pieces of new and advanced technology, I would say that it benefits the patient, the business and the operator. Ultimately, the patients are the ones who receive an excellent standard of care.”