Top 5 Strategies to Effectively Attract New Dental Patients
Whether launching a new dental practice or scaling an established one, patient acquisition and retention are key to growth. Here are five practical strategies to bring new patients through your doors and keep them coming back.
1. Build a strategic marketing plan
Show Up Where Patients Are Searching
- Invest in Paid Search: 71% of patients search online before booking a dental appointment. Google and Bing ads can help you rank higher and drive more traffic.
- Prioritize SEO: Enhance your local and on-page SEO so potential patients near you can easily find your practice in organic search. Use tools like Google Business Profile and location-based keywords.
Don’t Dismiss Print Marketing
- Reach Offline Patients: Print ads generate a 20% higher motivation response, outperforming many digital channels. Use trackable QR codes or links to measure ROI.
- Boost Brand Recall: Print marketing sets you apart, especially when competitors focus solely online.
Get Involved Locally
- Participate in Events: Health fairs, festivals, and local fundraisers connect you with the community.
- Build Trust Through Presence: Sponsoring events or hosting workshops shows you care beyond the clinic, building long-term loyalty.
2. Know your ideal patient
Define Your Target Demographic
Whether you specialize in implants, sedation, or pediatric care, tailoring your outreach helps attract high-value patients.
Address Patient Preferences
Understand scheduling, communication, and financial needs. Personalized experiences increase satisfaction and loyalty.
Offer Custom Coverage Options
Dental membership plans help uninsured patients access consistent care while supporting recurring revenue for your practice.
Adapt to Your Local Landscape
- Dental Health Rankings: Use tools like Dental IQ’s interactive map to learn what your community needs.
- Understand PPO Penetration: If insurance dominates, retain top PPOs. If not, focus on accessible alternatives like membership plans and patient financing.
3. Elevate the patient experience
Use Technology to Improve Care
Digital x-rays, intraoral scanners, and AI-powered diagnostics improve comfort, speed, accuracy, and safety.
Reduce Dental Anxiety
Create a welcoming environment with small touches—cozy seating, friendly staff, and calming amenities.
Encourage Referrals
Launch a referral program and feature testimonials to turn happy patients into promoters.
Deliver Standout Service
- Take notes on patient preferences and life events to personalize interactions.
- Train staff regularly to maintain high standards and enhance satisfaction.
- Automate reminders and payments for convenience and efficiency.
4. Be transparent with pricing
Ease Price Anxiety
Patients are more confident and less likely to cancel when they understand costs upfront.
Break Down Treatment Fees
Clearly outline all charges—including procedures, materials, and admin fees.
Eliminate Hidden Costs
A no-surprise pricing policy builds trust and improves conversion.
5. Differentiate with a membership plan
Appeal to Uninsured Patients
Membership plans give those without dental benefits an affordable path to care.
Customize for Flexibility
Offer varied pricing tiers and benefits to meet diverse needs and boost retention.
Build Loyalty Through Consistency
Members are more likely to return regularly, improving health outcomes and practice revenue.
Partner With a Platform That Scales With You
Kleer and Membersy offer turnkey membership solutions that integrate with your PMS, ensure compliance, automate management, and provide expert strategy and support.
Talk to a plan expert today and learn how you can boost retention and revenue with a modern membership model.
This blog has been updated since its original publication on June 12, 2024.
About the author
Lynnea is a Demand Generation Analyst at Kleer and Membersy, specializing in the B2B SaaS industry. With a prior background in content marketing, Lynnea works to create strategic content for dental teams designed to improve business outcomes.
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How to Measure ROI on Your Dental Marketing Program
Marketing is an investment in the growth of your practice. In dentistry, there can be a stigma around marketing, specifically with it being a costly investment. Still, it is an investment in your growth the same way training, hiring talented staff, and purchasing equipment and technology are investments in your growth. Marketing is no different. However, when investing in marketing you want to ensure you make the most of it.
22 Nov 2023
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