One of the quickest ways to grow your dental practice is by ensuring that every patient has a good experience. Of course, there will always be those patients who are never satisfied, but most of the time, there are several things you can do to ensure that everyone who walks into your dental practice feels comfortable and welcome.
When patients enjoy their experience, they are much more likely to recommend their friends or family members to your practice. If just one patient a day recommended a friend to your practice, you’d have twenty new patients a month. When you implement our recommendations, the success of your dental practice is much more likely!
Our team at Dental Practice Enhancement is passionate about helping dentists succeed, and we’re pretty good at helping them do just that! Here are five ways to create a wonderful patient experience in your dental practice:
1. Update the design and décor of your office
As shallow as it may seem, appearances matter. The first thing new patients will notice about your dental practice is what it looks like, and you want to make a good first impression! We recommend starting with pain colors. Try to stay away from reds and other abrasive colors that may heighten anxiety. Instead, choose blues, greens, grays, and whites.
Then, consider adding some plants and other decorative items that create a relaxing, calm environment.
2. Be punctual
Nothing turns a person off more than having to wait longer than expected. While most patients will assume they will sit in the waiting room for up to ten minutes, any more could leave a bad taste in their mouth.
To improve this part of your practice, make sure your front desk assistant understands the length of every procedure. This way, he or she can schedule accordingly. If an appointment or procedure takes longer than expected, be sure to call other patients to reschedule for later in the day or another day that works for both of you.
3. Offer free wi-fi
When you look out into the waiting room, what do you usually see? Most likely, you’ll see people scrolling on their phones or responding to emails. However, if you don’t offer free wi-fi, you may see patients just staring into space. Offering free wi-fi is beneficial for the patient and you.
Patients will have something to occupy their minds while waiting so they are less likely to become frustrated.
4. Provide comfort items
Dental fear and anxiety are all too real for so many patients. Providing comfort items can help these patients feel a sense of relief and calm throughout their appointment. Here are a few items we recommend:
- Headphones
- Blankets
- TVs in the operatories
- Neck pillows
- Aromatherapy
- Sound therapy
In cases of severe dental anxiety, sedation dentistry may be necessary.
5. Build relationships
When it comes to dentistry, and any other type of health care or service job, a patient-focused mentality is key. Ask your patients about their families, school, work, and hobbies, and share about yours too! Find a way to remember key things about each patient and ask follow-up questions during their next appointment.
For more dental practice management tips…
contact our team at Dental Practice Enhancement today! Our virtual assistants and trainers can help you create a welcoming, patient-friendly environment through practical means. Call (833) 373-3678 ext. 1 to learn more.
