Modern dentistry runs on technology. Your schedule, charts, imaging, phones and payments all depend on a network that is fast, reliable and secure. The best time to get it right is before construction finishes, when cabling and equipment locations are still easy to change.
Plan cabling with the build-out
Map every location that needs a connection: front desk, each operatory, imaging rooms, the doctor's office, the server or network closet, printers and phones. Wired connections are more reliable than Wi-Fi for clinical workstations and imaging, so run cable generously while the walls are open.
Core network components
- Business-grade firewall and router to protect the office network
- Managed switches with enough ports for growth
- Separate Wi-Fi networks for staff devices and patient guest access
- Battery backup (UPS) for network equipment and critical systems
Practice-management and imaging software
Choose your practice-management system early, then confirm that your sensors, intraoral cameras, panoramic or CBCT units and scanners integrate with it. Check workstation and server requirements for each, since imaging software can be demanding.
Phones and patient communication
A cloud phone system can offer call routing, voicemail-to-email, call recording and integration with your practice software. Pair it with text reminders and online scheduling to keep patients engaged.
Backups and security
Patient information is protected under HIPAA, so security has to be designed in, not bolted on. Work with your IT provider and compliance advisor on:
- Automated, encrypted backups, with at least one copy stored off-site or in the cloud, and regular restore tests
- Unique user logins, strong passwords and multi-factor authentication where available
- Automatic updates and endpoint protection on every workstation
- Business associate agreements with vendors that handle patient data
- Staff training on phishing and safe email practices
Plan for support
Decide who will support your systems after opening, and how quickly. When the network is down, the schedule stops.
How we help
Excel Dental Solutions plans and coordinates IT and networking for new and growing practices, from cabling and hardware to software integration and backups. Explore our IT & networking services.
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