In today’s competitive dental landscape, there are more dentists than ever before, yet only about half the population visits a dentist regularly. While there’s no magic button to instantly boost your patient numbers, there are effective, low-cost strategies that can help grow your patient base without exhausting your marketing budget.
Remember: Marketing Starts with the Basics
A flashy marketing campaign, through social media, Google Ads, or landing pages, can attract attention, especially when targeting specific audiences. But even with great marketing, the fundamentals matter most. Ensuring your team masters the basics will bring lasting results and turn new inquiries into loyal patients.
1. Always Answer the Phone
When potential patients call your office after finding you on Google, they expect someone to pick up right away. If their call goes unanswered or they’re put on hold, chances are they’ll move on to the next dentist on the list. Every missed call could be a missed opportunity. Prioritize live, prompt responses, never rely on voicemail for new patient calls.
2. Respond Quickly to Messages
If your office uses text or email communication, make sure your team responds quickly. Today’s patients expect fast replies, thank Amazon Prime for that. A timely response signals efficiency and professionalism, while delays can create doubt. Make prompt communication a key part of your patient experience strategy.
3. Build Relationships from the First Contact
Every phone call, email, or text is an opportunity to create a positive impression. The first interaction sets the tone for the relationship, so take your time. Listen to the patient’s concerns, gather their information, and document details for the clinical team. When a patient feels heard and understood from the beginning, trust and loyalty follow naturally.
4. Ask for Google Reviews
When patients compliment your office after treatment, ask them to share their experience online. Google Reviews are powerful, and free word-of-mouth advertising. Consider providing a simple “how-to” sheet to make it easy for patients to post their review before they leave the office.
5. Pre-Block Time for New Patients
Increase your capacity without extending hours by reserving time slots specifically for new patient exams. New patients are often eager to be seen quickly, and having pre-blocked appointments allows you to offer immediate openings—before they schedule elsewhere.
6. Offer Flexible Financial Options
Finances often influence a patient’s choice of dentist. Make sure your office offers payment options that fit your community’s needs, and ensure your team is comfortable discussing them clearly and confidently. Understanding patients’ financial concerns helps build trust and makes care more accessible.
Growing from Within
The strategies above don’t require additional spending, but they can significantly increase new patient numbers through internal referrals. In fact, internal referrals account for about 65% of new patient growth in most practices. While marketing campaigns are valuable, it’s how your team handles incoming inquiries that truly determines your success.
Focus on responsiveness, communication, and patient experience, and you’ll grow your practice without breaking the bank.
