## 5 Discussion  
The growing convergence of acoustics, healthcare design, and sustainability reflects a marked shift from function-driven to experience-driven clinical environments, signaling a more human-centered approach to care. This transformation is particularly salient in dental settings where patients are conscious during procedures and highly sensitive to environmental stimuli [4; 5]. As discussed by multiple studies, dental clinics must no longer be viewed solely as procedural spaces but as sensory landscapes that influence trust, compliance, and health outcomes [2; 4; 58; 5]. One of the most compelling innovations explored across recent literature is the multisensory optimization of clinical settings through biophilic design. Exposure to natural stimuli, such as daylight, vegetation, and nature-inspired acoustics, has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall patient experience [15; 79; 80; 81; 82; 83; 84; 85; 86; 87]. These effects are not only physiologically significant, lowering heart rate, anxiety, and cortisol, but also contribute to a positive emotional climate in the clinic. Importantly, the presence of biophilic elements can offer patients a subconscious signal of care and safety even before the clinical encounter begins [84; 57; 58]. Additionally, plant-based design interventions have been linked to improvements in spatial legibility and user comfort, supporting psychological orientation and well-being in both pediatric and general dental settings [54]. Water features, used strategically, have also demonstrated calming effects, particularly in high-stimulus zones like waiting areas and corridors, and are especially effective for neurodivergent individuals or those with heightened sensory sensitivities [25; 40]. Mapped against the dental patient journey, from arrival to procedure and post-treatment recovery, these principles contribute to what [PERSON] & [PERSON] (2021) describe as the \"environmental scaffolding\" of emotional resilience [88]. The infusion of greenery, scent, and tailored soundscapes at critical touchpoints supports the so-called \"wow effect,\" which strengthens perception of care quality and long-term loyalty [88]. Moreover, the use of curated auditory environments, such as music therapy, ambient soundscapes, and nature-based acoustic masking, has emerged as a non-invasive, patient-centered strategy for emotional regulation in dental and pediatric clinics. These interventions have been shown to lower anxiety, modulate physiological stress responses, and enhance perceived quality of care [10; 13; 44; 45; 60]. Integrating such auditory tools into clinical workflows supports a more calming and predictable sensory experience, particularly beneficial for vulnerable populations, including children, neurodivergent patients, and individuals with prior dental trauma [40; 51]. As patients transition into treatment zones, the focus increases to green dentistry, a growing field that fuses environmental responsibility with architectural innovation. Research highlights that elements such as energy-efficient lighting systems, low-VOC (volatile organic compound) materials, and the use of recycled acoustic panels are not only ecologically sound but also elevate the professional image of dental practices [89]. This alignment with green building standards is becoming a differentiating factor in dental clinic branding, influencing patient choice and contributing to long-term cost efficiency [90; 91]. In tandem, quieter dental equipment, including low-noise air turbines and ultrasonic scalers, is recommended to reduce background stress, improve communication clarity, and protect the auditory health of staff and patients alike [2; 5]. Additionally, spatial zoning, strategically separating high-noise procedures from quieter consultative or recovery areas, has emerged as a key intervention to manage cumulative sound exposure and optimize workflow within eco-conscious clinic layouts [20; 58; 78; 92; 93; 94; 95; 96; 97; 98; 99].