Dentist marketing has become significantly more vital in today's competitive world to not only attract new patients, but also keep existing loyal patients. The days of word-of-mouth to fill your schedule are long gone. With most patients searching for a dentist online, practices need to have a marketing plan in place for successful and growing patient acquisition.
To stand out and be successful, here is everything you need to know about dentist marketing.
Why Dentist marketing is important
• More competition: Living in a world with a growing number of dental clinics, you need to capture patient attention
• Digital first: Patients always do their research online before booking an appointment
• Building trust and credibility: Patients are not willing to trust every dental clinic. Consistent marketing will develop familiarity, which in turn, leads to trusting your dental clinic over another when the decision is made.
What does dentist marketing need to contain?
In order to properly position your clinic in the market and for more patients to engage with your practice, your marketing has to contain the following:
1. Website Optimisation
• Mobile responsive for users to view the website properly on smartphones and tablets
• Easy navigation and user-friendly with call-to-action buttons (i.e. Book Now button)
• Fast loading speeds and professional visuals
2. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
• Utilize local keywords like "dentist near me" or "best dentist in [city]"
• Optimize website content for search engines including meta titles and descriptions
• Build quality backlinks, and stay active in your blog
3. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising
• Use Google Ads to have your dental practice show at the top of a search engine results page (SERP) immediately.
• Utilize both Google and social media ads on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
• Advertise special offers, discounts or emergency dentist.
4. SMM- Social Media Marketing
• Post patient testimonials, dental tips and behind the scenes videos of your practice.
• Comment, privately message and like your followers.
• Publish information about new services and offers with the help of social media.
5. Content Marketing
• Publish informative blog articles answering common dental questions.
• Produce videos that highlight your dental procedures, the staff, and patient success stories.
• Content is a resource that can also educate and build authority.
6. Online Reviews and Reputation Management
• Ask satisfied patients to leave you a positive review on Google My Business and Facebook
• Respond to patient complaints promptly and professionally.
• Your online reputation should be trustworthy and credible.
7. Email Marketing
• Email patients appointment reminders, newsletters, and special offers.
• Continue to engage patients and encourage them to return to your dental office.
• Use segmented email lists to target specific patient groups.
Developing a High-Impact Marketing Plan to Your Dental Practice
• Have Clear Expectations: Evaluate what you wish to achieve, e.g. increase of new patients? Patient retention? Brand awareness?
• Clarify Your Audience: Get to know your audience demographics, e.g., age, income, dental needs, etc. so you can create what will be relevant to them.
• Select the Appropriate Channels: Focus your efforts in channels where your target patients are.
• Budget for Your Marketing: Divide your budget for organic and paid activities in order to best maximise ROI.
Effective Digital Marketing Tools for Dentists
• Website: The website is the front door for your practice on the digital highway.
• Online Scheduling: Give your patients convenience in scheduling their appointments online.
• Analytics: Use analytics to measure website traffic, ad performance, and patient action.
• CRM: Manage patient communications and marketing campaigns effectively.
Local Community Marketing for Dentists
• Google Business Profile: Claim and optimise it with accurate information, photos, and reviews.
• Business Listings: List your practice in all of the relevant Australian dentist directories.
• Targeted Ads: Create ads specifically targeting certain suburbs or cities.
• Engage with your community: Sponsor a local event or offer a free dental workshop to your local community.
Dentist Marketing Mistakes
Here are some common dentist marketing mistakes to avoid:
• Throwing mobile users a non-responsive website
• Failing to manage online reviews and feedback from patients
• Inconsistent branding with other marketing channels
• Not following up with patients after visits
When to Hire a Dentist Marketing Agency
An important question to consider is whether or not to partner with a marketing expert in your industry. You should consider hiring a marketing professional if you:
• Want a customized strategy based on your dental industry experience
• Want to save time managing campaigns
• Want a professional to create content and manage technical SEO
• Need the ability to make data-driven adjustments that improve marketing ROI
Conclusion
Marketing by dentists is very essential in the expansion of your business in the digital world. By having a properly organized online presence along with an effective targeted advertising campaign, quality contents and an excellent patient communication strategy, you will be able to attract patients and build long-term relationships.