Patient Referrals

There is no better marketing tool than the patient who has been with you for years. That person will provide references of neighbors, friends, family - as long as they are happy with your services.

You may be thinking, "If the patient has been coing here for years, of course they like our services!". What you may not be considering is that the patient may have gotten into the rut of compliance. They may be happy enough with your services, but nothing you're doing is especially exceptional enough for them to offer your name when probed. Now you need to consider how you can make these long-term patients happy enough to be your best promoters.

When patient's reach certain milestones with you, consider offering them special deals. A free at-home whitening kit at 5 years, or a free in-office whitening service at 10 years will really show that patient you appreciate their loyalty. When a current patient refers a new patient, consider a thank-you note with a modest denomination dinner gift certificate. Your appreciation does not have to necessarily be dental-related.

Finally, a sincere "Thank-you" from the dentist him or herself will go a long way. Before the patient leaves your office, a solid handshake with a heartfelt, "I appreciate your business and you as patient" will speak far more volumes than the actual words themselves.