Edifying your dental practice involves highlighting the unique qualities and strengths of your dentists and the office itself to build trust and credibility with patients. This process helps differentiate your practice from competitors and emphasizes why patients should choose you for their dental care.
Steps to Edify Your Dentists and Dental Office
1. Highlight Credentials and Experience
- a. Educational Background: Mention the educational qualifications, advanced training, and certifications of your dentists.
- b. Professional Experience: Highlight years of practice, specialties, and any notable achievements or awards.
- c. Continuous Learning: Emphasize commitment to ongoing education and participation in professional organizations.
Example: “Dr.[Name], graduated from XYZ Dental School with honors and has over 15 years of experience in family and cosmetic dentistry. He/she is a member of the American Dental Association and continually updates his/her skills through advanced training.”
2. Showcase Office Environment and Technology
- a. State-of-the-Art Technology: Describe the modern equipment and technology used in the practice.
- b. Comfortable Environment: Highlight efforts to create a relaxing and patient-friendly atmosphere.
- c. Hygiene and Safety: Emphasize strict adherence to hygiene and safety protocols.
Example: “Our office is equipped with the latest digital x-ray machines and laser dentistry tools, ensuring precise and comfortable treatments. We prioritize patient comfort with a welcoming environment and adhere to the highest standards of cleanliness and safety.”
3. Personalize Patient Care
- a. Patient Testimonials: Share positive testimonials and success stories from satisfied patients.
- b. Customized Treatment Plans: Explain how the practice tailors treatments to meet individual patient needs.
- c. Compassionate Approach: Highlight the caring and empathetic nature of the dental team.
Example: “Our patients frequently praise Dr. [Name] ‘s gentle approach and attention to detail. Each treatment plan is customized to meet your specific needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes.”
4. Community Involvement
- a. Local Engagement: Describe the practice’s involvement in local community events and sponsorships.
- b. Charitable Activities: Mention any charitable work or pro bono services offered to the community.
Example: “At [Practice Name], we believe in giving back to our community. We regularly participate in local health fairs and provide free dental care days for underserved populations.”
5. Google Reviews
- a. Showcase Reviews: Display positive Google reviews on your website and social media to build trust and credibility.
- b. Redirect Callers to Reviews: Front office staff can guide callers to read Google reviews to build trust and provide social proof.
Example: “That’s great that you heard about us on Google! Have you had the opportunity to read our raving 5-star reviews? Many of our patients have shared their positive experiences with Dr. [Name] and our team. They provide great insight into the quality of care we provide and might help you feel even more confident about choosing us for your dental needs.”
Develop Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
1. Identifying Your Strengths
- a. List the key strengths and distinctive differentiators and qualities of your practice and dentists.
- b. Consider what makes your practice different from others in the area.
Example: Strengths could include advanced technology, sedation dentistry, open late and on weekends, same-day crowns, 3D printing, Invisalign Provider, offers dental implants, emergency dentistry, etc.
Differentiators are not: highly experienced team, welcoming office, quality work, etc., because every dental practice is going to say that. You want to share what sets you apart from your competition.
2. Understand Your Patients’ Needs
- a. Conduct surveys or interviews to understand what patients value most in a dental practice.
- b. Identify common pain points and how your practice addresses them.
Example: Patients may value short wait times, weekend hours, same-day care, or affordability.
3. Craft Your USP Statement
- a. Combine your strengths and patient needs into a concise, compelling statement.
- b. Ensure it clearly communicates the unique benefits patients receive by choosing your practice.
Example: “At [Practice Name], we leverage cutting-edge technology and sedation dentistry to ensure a calming and stress-free dental experience for our patients. Our flexible scheduling, including late and weekend appointments, caters to the busy lives of our patients. Our unwavering commitment to excellence and active community involvement distinguish us as the premier choice for your dental care needs.”
4. Consistently Communicate Your USP
- a. Train staff to communicate the USP consistently to patients and prospects.
Phone Scripting
Greeting: Use the 5-star greeting before answering any questions.
- Thank you for calling practice name; this is (your name). How can I help you?
- Whom do I have the pleasure of speaking with?
- Use the patient’s name throughout the phone call.
- Who may we thank for referring you?
- Do you have insurance that you would like us to courtesy bill?
- What’s bringing you in to see the dentist? Tell me more.
Receptionist: Thank you for calling [Practice Name]. My name is [name]. Who do I have the pleasure of speaking with?
Patient: Hi, I’m interested in scheduling an appointment. Can you tell me more about your office and services?
Receptionist: Let me be the first to welcome you to our practice. I would love to tell you about our office and services, but first, can I gather some information?
Use the 5-star greeting and then circle back to the caller’s question. You can leave any insurance talk out until it’s time to schedule.
At [Practice Name], we leverage cutting-edge technology and sedation dentistry to ensure a calming and stress-free dental experience for our patients. Our flexible scheduling, including late and weekend appointments, caters to the busy lives of our patients. Dr. [Name] graduated with honors from XYZ Dental School and has over 15 years of experience in family and cosmetic dentistry. He/she’s known for his/her gentle approach and meticulous attention to detail.
Patient: That sounds great. What kind of technology do you use?
Receptionist: We use state-of-the-art technology, including digital x-ray machines and laser dentistry tools, which ensure precise and comfortable treatments. Our office is designed to create a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere for all our patients, and we strictly adhere to the highest standards of cleanliness and safety.
Patient: That’s reassuring. Can you tell me about your patient care approach?
Receptionist: Of course! We believe in personalized care, so each treatment plan is tailored to meet your specific needs. Dr. [Name] and our entire team are committed to making every visit as comfortable and effective as possible. Our patients often commend us for our compassionate and empathetic approach, which helps them feel at ease during their visits.
Patient: What if I have specific concerns or needs?
Receptionist: We always take the time to listen to your concerns and provide customized solutions. Dr. [Name] ‘s extensive experience and continuous education allow her to offer a wide range of treatments. Plus, our friendly and professional team is here to support you every step of the way.
Patient: That’s good to know. Do you offer any special programs or community involvement?
Receptionist: Yes, we do! We believe in giving back to our community, so we regularly participate in local health fairs and offer free dental care days for underserved populations. Additionally, we have a loyalty program where patients earn rewards for attending scheduled appointments, which can be redeemed for discounts and complimentary services.
Patient: That sounds wonderful. How do I get started?
Receptionist: It’s easy! Let’s schedule your first appointment.
[Proceed with scheduling the appointment and collecting any necessary information.]
Receptionist: Thank you, [Patient’s Name]. Your appointment is confirmed for [Date and Time]. We look forward to welcoming you to our office and providing you with the highest quality dental care. If you have any other questions before your visit, please don’t hesitate to call us. Have a great day!
