How to Get More Patients Into Your Dental Practice

The Challenge of Attracting More Patients

Running a dental practice comes with numerous challenges, ranging from the economic landscape to patients forgetting appointments, all of which can affect the bottom line and your business’s success. According to a survey by the American Dental Association, 94% of respondents were accepting new patients, and almost 30% reported not being busy enough.

So, what’s the key to getting more patients in the door? Read on to discover how to get more patients into your dental practice.

Start with Reputation

Determining how to increase patient volume in a dental office starts by building a strong reputation. It’s all about referrals based on a great patient experience, which starts when they first call your office, how they’re cared for in the dental chair, and the follow-up after they leave.

The second essential element is asking. Patients may think you’re swamped with current patients and don’t need any more. You can encourage them to refer others by setting up a referral program that rewards them for their efforts.

In the end, a client base that can’t say enough good things about you is one of the most important ingredients to attracting more patients. And it’s this steady flow of new patients that ensures a successful practice now and years down the line.

Make Your Dental Office Easy to Find Online

What comes up when you search for “a dentist near me”? Hopefully, your practice. Today’s patients are online savvy, checking out reviews on every service and product before deciding on the route to take.

Developing a strong online presence is one of the most essential steps when determining how to increase patient volume in a dental office. The first step is your website. Is it welcoming and descriptive? Does it tell a story, define your values, and let patients know the benefit of your dental practice above all others? Consider including team member bios for a touch of personalization and a list of services.

Today’s digital natives are experience first, story second, and sustainability third. For this reason, it’s essential to focus on how to improve the patient experience in your dental office. They are also strong on visually engaging content like videos. Create one and share it with the world via your website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Finding Your Edge: How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market

Standing out in a crowded market means staying ahead of the competition. This level of commitment requires digital marketing, a strong consideration for referral programs, involvement in the community, and good communication skills.

Of course, not everyone is born with the latter. It is a skill, however, that can be learned. If you read up on active listening, you’ll realize good communication is often more about being present and still than carrying on a lively conversation.

The next consideration when considering how to increase patient volume in a dental office is what you do that makes you different? Do you offer an uncommon service like dental sleep medicine, or do you take a holistic approach to dental care? These specialties provide a good opportunity to differentiate your uniqueness.

Turn Patients into Promoters: Elevate Experience & Referrals

Every business knows that retention strategies are key to longevity. While attracting new customers is essential to a business’s bottom line, retaining them offers the greatest return. A patient’s lifetime value is more than how much they’ll spend at your practice. It’s also about how many referrals they’ll send your way.

According to the American Dental Association, the average dental practice has a retention rate of 41%. That means less than half of the first-time patients who walk through their doors return.

So, how do you keep your patients and convert them to brand ambassadors? As with most service providers, one of the essential elements is communication.

According to a review published in the healthcare journal, Patient Preference and Adherence, effective dental-patient communication requires the five C’s. It should be clear, correct, concise, complete, and cohesive. It requires a patient-centered approach, which includes listening attentively, encouraging questions, providing empathy and time, and following up.

This level of authentic communication and prioritizing good relations results in improved patient confidence, reduced anxiety, increased adherence, enhanced satisfaction, and a practice that continues to grow.

How Special Offers Can Attract More Dental Patients

Special offers provide a powerful tool to attract new patients. In fact, it’s one of the main avenues that lead to your front door.

Consider a person who recently relocated and is looking for a new dentist. First, they’ll turn to their friends and family for a referral. But, what if they’re on their own? These people will look online. They’ll type in “Dentists Near Me” and check out the top three on Google, also known as the “Local Pack.”

The next step is checking out their websites, their services, and their online reviews. Two have 5-star reviews and easily maneuverable websites. One of those dentists offers a new patient special with a discounted service bundle. For just $99, they can see if you’re a good fit for them and receive an exam, X-ray, and cleaning. Congrats! You have a new patient.

Other possible exclusive new patient specials include free teeth whitening, senior citizen and military discounts, and a discounted service, such as orthodontic treatment or implant restoration. Membership plans are becoming more prominent, helping patients without insurance while providing consistent revenue.

More innovative ideas for a dental clinic include promoting the changing seasons with limited-time offers, a marketing tool that compels people to take action.

The start of a new year prompts people to make changes they’ve been putting off. It’s a great time to offer a New Year’s Resolution package. Many people want to look their best for the summer season and upcoming vacations. A special at the end of August can remind parents about making an appointment for their children before they return to school.

Start Growing Your Dental Practice Today

From offering first-time specials to getting involved with the community and ensuring high-quality communication and care, opportunities abound that can help you grow your practice. How to get more patients into your dental practice is all about the experience.

At notifyMD®, we support dentists in ensuring quality patient care and a growing practice by providing patient outreach services. These services include patient appointment reminders, follow-ups after dental procedures, and reminders about preventative measures, such as cleanings and exams.

Our virtual assistants act as an extension of your team, scheduling appointments, directing calls, and providing the best patient experience possible. To learn more about our dental office services, contact notifyMD® today.