If you're a dentist, you'll know that your biggest marketing challenge is the perceived comfort of your services. Even if you offer sedation, anesthetics, and a bunch of other ways to improve the patient experience, many people simply don't like going to the dentist and will only travel to one if they absolutely have to.
So, what can you do as a dental business to support patient comfort? Which tactics are proven to work?
Create a calming environment
The first thing you want to do is create a calming environment. Dentists do this in all sorts of ways, since environments are one of the biggest triggers for anxiety for a lot of people.
One of the best approaches is to provide patients with noise-cancelling headphones during treatment. Many individuals hate the sound of drills and teeth cleaning, so providing them with equipment that blocks out high-pitched and whirring noises can be beneficial. You can also install televisions on the ceiling or even provide patients with virtual reality goggles so they can watch something during treatment. Aromatherapy with calming scents like lavender or vanilla also helps mask clinical smells that may be off-putting to some people.
Communicates effectively
As a dentist, it's also a good idea to communicate effectively to provide patients with mental comfort. In many respects, this is as important as physical comfort and can amplify the effects of sedatives and anesthetics.
For example, giving your patient a stop signal, such as raising their left hand if they feel pain or need to spit, can be a great way to increase their comfort. They know that they can stop the treatment immediately, take a break, and then go back to it afterwards if necessary.
You can also pace appointments by breaking complex procedures into shorter, more manageable steps. Giving patients more frequent breaks can improve the perceived experience and outcomes.
Use advanced supplies and materials
Another way to improve patient comfort and experience is to use the most advanced supplies and materials. When you have the right products in the dental office, you can offer patients a more seamless experience.
For example, instead of using standard adhesives use Sofreliner Tough soft denture reline. Find products like this that really offer genuine advantages over unbranded or generic options.
In terms of equipment, use X-rays that scan quickly and tooth polishing devices that are proven to reduce the time they need to spend in contact with the teeth.
Another option is to use digital scanners instead of gag-inducing impression trays. These are small, handheld devices that use AI and cameras to capture 3D images of the inside of a patient's mouth.
Finally, you can add topical numbing gels to your list of handy items to keep in your office. These immediately numb the areas around the gum tissue before injecting local anesthetic. This option can be great for patients who don't like the sight of needles.
So there you have it, some of the ways you as a dentist can support patient comfort and get more business.
