How to Introduce a New Dentist to Patients

It is no secret that most people do not look forward to a trip to the dentist. Individuals are especially apprehensive when being introduced to a new dentist. Most people will need to change dentists at some point in their lives. There will be an increasing rate of patients being introduced to new dentists as the rate of dentists who are retiring increases. Careful planning and compassion must be used when introducing new dentists to patients.

Instructions

How to Introduce a New Dentist to Patients

• 1

  Apply for membership with the American Dental Association if you have recently entered the dental profession. Joining the American Dental Association will provide you with valuable resources to help you establish and maintain a successful dentistry practice. Patients will feel more secure with you as their new dentist if they can confirm your membership with the ADA.

• 2

  Hold an open house if you are opening a new dental practice. The open house will provide an opportunity for patients to meet you in order to begin forming a positive professional relationship with patients. Provide clients with an opportunity to introduce themselves and ask questions about your prior experience and educational history.

• 3

  Offer a free dental screening for patients you met during the open house. You should also offer the free dental screening to any potential new clients who are interested in your services. It is not easy for patients to feel comfortable with a new dentist. Fortunately, most people do like to receive something for free. If you offer a free dental screening or cleaning for potential patients, you provide them with an opportunity to get a feel for your expertise before having any major dental work completed.

• 4

  Advertise your grand opening before you officially open for business. You should consider advertising on billboards, television, radio, and/or in the newspaper. Advertising your grand opening provides you with the opportunity to promote yourself and your new dental services to potential patients in the communities you will serve.

• 5

  Seek endorsements from prior clients. If you need to move to a new area or join a new dental practice, these testimonials can be used to establish your experience as a dentist and to show new patients that you are a well-respected and trusted dental professional. Your new clients will be more apt to put faith in your abilities if they know you have served other clients well.

• 6

  Launch a website to promote your new dental business once you are settled in at your new office. Your website should include information on past dental practices. If you are able to obtain the permission of past clients, post pictures online that reflect your work at other dental offices. Provide information about your educational history. Consider including an email address where potential clients can contact you with questions.