Written by: Alice_daisy

Introduction

It’s never too late to make a comeback, and that is certainly true for dentists. Dentists have been in the top three professions with the largest number of openings because fewer people are losing teeth due to gum disease and tooth decay. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to attract more dental patients.

1. Sign up to follow your practice on social media

Create an account with at least one social media site. For example, if you practice in a large city, become a member of the local chapter of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons or other major professional organization. Join an online community related to dentistry such as Dentaltown or our Dentaltown Community. This will help you network with other professionals in the area and provide an opportunity to interact with potential patients.

2. Be proactive in networking with other dental professionals

If you are not already doing so, go to conferences and local events held by other dental professionals. Not only will this give you the chance to meet people who may eventually become patients, but it will also allow you to make valuable industry contacts and keep up-to-date on the latest practice developments. Also, find out what other dentists are doing in your area that could improve patient care and the overall quality of care, and get more patients with marketing.

3. Be sure you take the time to learn about the latest trends in dentistry

While you may think you already know everything there is to know about how to run a profitable practice, it is unlikely that you realize there are still new practices being developed. For example, if you haven’t already read about the emerging uses of social media and how it could help your practice, now is the time to do so.

4. Be sure your practice has a consistent online presence

While your practice doesn’t need to have its website, you should be sure to have a consistent online presence through social media accounts such as Facebook, Twitter, Yelp and others. Make sure that these sites reflect the standards associated with your practice. For example, if your practice name is Medical Associates Dentistry, it is a good idea to include a link to that name in the “About Us” section of your Facebook page.

5. Get online reviews

While you may already have a website that offers patient reviews, social media sites are also great for this purpose. Be sure to ask patients to leave reviews for you on sites that offer them. Reviews are the most powerful form of advertising! Just be sure to make it clear that there is no obligation to do so.

6. Offer incentives for referring new patients

If you are able, offer incentives to refer new patients. This process can be as simple as offering a name tag, patient ID card and $25 certificate towards the cost of a dental exam. You can also offer free exams for new patients with a $100 certificate for their treatment.

7. Invest in expanding your practice, but not just for the sake of being bigger

It is important to keep in mind that taking on new patients is only one part of the customer acquisition process. To make it as easy as possible for new patients, your practice should be prepared with an inviting and comfortable waiting area, a knowledgeable receptionist and a hygienist who treats you like family.

Conclusion

The fact that dental patients are being drawn away from other fields means there is an opportunity to gain new patients. However, simply having practice isn’t enough. You need to go the extra mile to market your practice to get your fair share of this growing demand.