Dental Chair for Children: Captivating Design to Ease Anxiety

Creating a Positive Dental Experience for Children

The dental chair for children, named ROI, stands out from other products on the market by prioritizing the needs of the end user - the child. While meeting the practical needs of the dentist, this innovative design aims to emotionally engage the young patient, helping them overcome their fears associated with dental visits. The chair features various elements, such as a video display, an operating light, a mirror, and a basin for rinsing, all designed to captivate the child's attention and create a positive experience.

Utilizing flexible polyurethane upholstery, the chair provides comfort and is easily sanitized. The frame is made of lightweight aluminum, while the base is constructed from sturdy cast iron. With dimensions of 1900mm in width, 1000mm in depth, and 2000mm in height, the chair offers ample space for both the child and the dentist.

The interaction between the patient and the dental chair is a key aspect of the design. The video display serves as a distraction, particularly for children, with its size and positioning carefully considered. The dentist console, typically associated with pain, is designed with a harmonious shape and is fully sealable to avoid creating anxiety. The operating light not only provides illumination but also creates light effects resembling a starry sky, promoting tranquility and serenity. Even the mirror and the rinsing basin are designed to interact with the child in a playful manner. The ergonomic chair serves as the central element of the dental unit, around which all other components are arranged.

The ROI dental chair project was initiated in February 2009 in Genova and completed in June 2009. Throughout the design process, extensive research was conducted, including a historical analysis of dental chairs and consultations with technicians responsible for maintenance. Sales representatives also provided insights into current aesthetic trends, ensuring the product's appeal to dentists who consider both functionality and visual appeal.

The development of ROI posed several challenges, including balancing the designer's vision with technological constraints. Emili aimed to create a dental chair that not only met the practical requirements but also fostered a positive relationship between the patient and the dentist, built on trust and comfort.

Recognizing its innovative design and practicality, ROI was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Medical Devices and Medical Equipment category in 2014. This prestigious accolade is granted to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The ROI dental chair exemplifies these characteristics, providing a fulfilling and positive experience for both dentists and young patients, contributing to a better dental care environment.