1. Embrace digital workflow

Adopting a digital workflow in dentistry offers numerous advantages over traditional methods. Digital techniques, such as using intraoral scanners (IOS), significantly reduce human error, enhance control over record-taking, and improve efficiency. According to Dandy’s internal survey of 1200 dentists, approximately 75% of US dental practices utilize intraoral scanners, a sharp increase from 20-30% five years ago. The high-resolution data provided by digital scans offer superior information fidelity, capturing detailed color data and accurate pre- and post-operative conditions, which are critical for designing perfectly fitting crowns. 

2. Foundational scan protocol

Establishing a foundational scan protocol is essential for achieving optimal results. Ensure the scanning area is clean and dry, as moisture can distort digital impressions. Lighting is another factor, so avoid direct overhead lights during scanning to prevent inaccuracies. Proper scanner handling, like a pen grip, provides better control and access to difficult areas. Follow a systematic scan path—occlusal, lingual, buccal—with full swipes. Start on the occlusal surface, swipe molar to molar before rolling lingual, and swipe again, molar to molar, for consistent results. Avoid over-scanning by optimizing the image count, ideally under 3,000 images per arch. These practices help create precise digital records.

3. Shade capture with photography

Capturing the correct shade before patient prepping is crucial for aesthetic results. Use a high-resolution camera and a shade guide in ambient light. Dentition changes color. They dehydrate, and the teeth fundamentally change in shade after pre-prep versus post-prep. Best practices include taking six essential photos:

• A natural full-face smile.
• A second natural smile photo, with a close-up of the dentition.
• Use two close-up photos of shade times. The shade times should be the targeted shade or one the lab needs to mimic for a custom shade pull. Give a visual range, which helps the lab examine the patient’s dentition and uses the shade times as color image references. Also, pay attention to the shade number and avoid asking for a different shade, e.g., ordering an A-3 shade for a tooth with an A-1 shade.
• Two final photos: one with retracted teeth together and then retracted teeth separated. 

This comprehensive approach ensures consistency, leading to more natural-looking restorations. Even for posterior restorations, a simple shade photo helps achieve better results. Providing these photos will supply the lab with six images that will get the desired shade—crowns that blend seamlessly with the patient’s natural teeth.

4. Double cord retraction technique

The double cord retraction technique is invaluable for achieving clear margins necessary for perfect fitting crowns. This gold standard method involves placing two cords in the gingival sulcus, providing excellent retraction and a clear field for scanning. Double-cord retraction offers more consistent results than the single-cord technique, especially in challenging cases. Visual examples clearly show how this technique enhances the visibility of the margins, ensuring accurate digital impressions. By mastering double cord retraction, dentists can significantly reduce the risk of open margins and improve the overall quality and longevity of the restorations.

5. Mastering the prep scan

Accurate reading of digital impressions is key for successful restorations. It relates to how digital impressions are read, or more specifically, how the sensitive areas of skin are reviewed.This method can be challenging, especially transitioning from analog to digital workflows. To begin, ensure margins are clear and interproximal contacts are well-defined. Turning off the color in scans can enhance visibility, making it easier to identify these critical areas. Utilize pre-operative scans to focus solely on capturing prep details without the distraction of other dentition. This method minimizes errors and ensures the lab has the best possible data. With tips and tricks for reading digital impressions and plenty of practice, anyone can master these techniques, improving the impressions’ accuracy. 

6. Advanced scan analysis

Effectual scan analysis aids in avoiding distortions in digital impressions. As stated previously, manage image count to stay below 3,000 images per arch to prevent overloading the scanner and introducing errors. Utilize the stone model mode for clearer visibility and easier identification of essential details. For challenging cases, mark margins digitally to ensure accuracy. These practices streamline the scanning process, reduce the risk of inaccuracies, and ensure that the final restorations fit perfectly. Advanced scan analysis techniques empower dentists to produce consistently high-quality digital impressions, leading to superior patient outcomes.

7. Leveraging Live Scan Reviews

Live scan reviews offer real-time feedback from technicians, ensuring high-quality digital impressions before the patient leaves the chair. This service allows for immediate corrections and enhances accuracy, reducing the need for patient remakes. Schedule live scan reviews in advance for complex cases for expert oversight. By integrating live scan reviews into the digital workflow, you can confidently know that patients’ impressions are accurate and complete. 

8. Utilizing Design Previews

Design previews are essential for ensuring precise and satisfactory restorations. Reviewing and approving designs before fabrication allows for necessary adjustments, ensuring the final product meets clinical and aesthetic expectations. Effective communication and annotations between the dentist and the lab are essential for this process. Utilize the design preview tools to see the proposed restoration in 3D, making visualizing the fit and function easier. This step minimizes the risk of errors, reduces the need for remakes, and ensures that the crowns look natural.

9. Using CAD/CAM materials

CAD/CAM materials offer significant benefits for consistent and precise dental restorations. These materials are designed digitally and manufactured with high precision, guaranteeing that the final product matches the digital design accurately. Follow preparation guidelines tailored to each material, such as clear margins and adequate occlusal clearance. A shoulder prep or a medium to heavy chamfer is recommended for zirconia crowns, along with at least 1 to 1.5 mm of occlusal clearance. Using these advanced materials and adhering to the preparation guidelines result in durable crowns that meet the highest standards of quality and aesthetics.

10. 3D printed duplication workflows

The future of digital dentistry is 3D printing, which revolutionizes the workflow for creating crowns and other restorations. Before fabrication, begin with digital design previews to finalize the restoration’s shape and fit. This approach allows for easy adjustments and patient feedback. Once approved, 3D printing creates temporary restorations for a test drive, minimizing the need for adjustments later. This workflow enhances crown production predictability and with  precision. 3D-printed duplication workflows also streamline the process and reduce chair time.

Perfect crown best practices conclusion

Adopting digital workflows in dentistry is paramount for achieving consistent, high-quality results. By following these ten tips, dentists can provide perfectly fitting crowns. These practices improve efficiency, enhance the patient experience, and increase overall outcomes. Embrace these modern techniques to elevate your practice and provide the best care for patients. Are you interested in exploring more of our services, tools, and resources for enhanced dental practice efficiency? Contact Dandy today.

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There is a difference between the two types of photographs and the equipment needed. Intraoral images are taken inside the mouth. Extraoral photos are taken outside the mouth. The well-trained and practiced dental practitioner will become accomplished using either a camera or an intraoral scanner. Still, there is an obvious need to invest in the right equipment. Here is Dandy’s suggested equipment list and advice on its effectiveness and use.

Essential equipment for dental photography

Camera, lens, and flash selection

In dental photography, the type of camera impacts the accuracy and detail of the images taken. We suggest the following:

• Camera: A DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera system with a camera body, lens, and external flash. It has superior image quality, faster operation, and increased depth of field. slack
• Lens: A 50 mm macro lens with a magnification ratio of 1:1. Focal lengths of 60, 85, and 100 mm, where 100mm is the most advised. 
• Flash: A mounted external ring flash in front of the lens of the DSLR camera.
• Other: Smartphones with enhanced cameras, such as an Apple iPhone 12 or newer, are a good substitute.

Cheek retractors and intraoral mirrors

To capture unobstructed views of the oral cavity, retraction is the name of the game. Cheek retractors pull back the lips and other soft tissue structures, allowing maximum light to enter the oral cavity and increasing visibility. Here are our recommendations:

• Double-ended cheek retractors: Occlusal and buccal-view images use this type of retractor, which offers versatility and accommodates different mouth sizes. 
• Plastic retractors: These are made of clear plastic and are less visible in the picture.
• Patient involvement: Having the patient assist aids in the process. If not the patient, then another team member.

Dental mirrors produce a reflected image when photographing areas of restricted accessibility. 

• Mirrors: Intraoral mirrors should be made of glass, not metal. Glass mirrors have better light-reflective properties and are scratch resistant. However, they are more fragile than steel mirrors.
• Mirror prep: We advise a warm water bath or warm the mirror before use by placing it next to or under your sterilization machine, keeping mirror fogging to a minimum. There are non-fogging material mirror options, but glass is our choice.

Office setting for the camera photo

Make sure you have a setting devoid of posters, cabinets, or even plants to take the extraoral photos. This isn’t for Instagram, think more DMV without the long wait.

Solid background wall: Make sure you have a clean background wall where you can take photos. The color doesn’t really matter but many practices use a bright white (and while we all know the “tissue test” is unfair to patients to compare their smile to say Behr’s “Melting Icicles”-white, a shade in any of the whites help create a nice blank background).

Stool or chair: Make sure there is a spot for the patient to sit when taking the camera photos. Whether you are offering your stool or have a chair especially for the extraoral photography position it in a place that is private (not in the waiting room!) and comfortable. The sitting furniture allows the patient to be comfortable and allows your staffer—at any height—to take photos at an ideal angle.

Having one dedicated spot, perhaps in hygiene, allows you to make sure the space is devoid of clutter.

When should you take dental pictures?

Digital dental photography has its place in every dental office’s workflow. Most often, dentists specializing in orthodonture and clear aligners find this system advantageous. Dental photographs help patients envision their new smile compared to the existing one.

Another use for dental photography is in wellness scans and can be leveraged for education and case acceptance. These photos also help process claims, proving to insurance providers by “seeing” the needed repair. 

Techniques for capturing intraoral images

Intraoral scanners and dental photography systems go hand in hand. The critical step is securely storing patient dental pictures. All digital images should be stored and labeled with the patient’s name and date, especially the original photos.

Privacy laws and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) standards require that all patient information, including photos and scans, be stored safely. Use HIPAA-compliant patient and imaging software for both digital intake and file maintenance. 

Patient positioning

Optimal patient posture is important in capturing precise intraoral images and provides patient comfort. 

• Patients should be seated upright in a dental chair or stool with the head in a neutral position. 
• Some dentists suggest a swivel chair or stool to acquire a place away from a reflective wall or shadows. 
• For shading purposes, turn off the chair light and use natural, ambient lighting.

When capturing anterior, buccal, and occlusal images, keeping the patient’s head level with the Frankfort horizontal plane is essential. 

• Patient’s head must be perpendicular to the floor.
• The occlusal plane leveled. 
• The position of the teeth is parallel to the tabletop. 

We also suggest that the patient holds the retractors for improved comfort during the photography test session.

When using an intraoral scanner, the head of the device should be aligned with the bisecting angle line, and the beam should be centered over each section or tooth you are capturing. 

Lighting techniques

Effective lighting techniques help illuminate the oral cavity for detailed intraoral images. A ring light or dual flash provides uniform illumination and eliminates shadows. Avoid overhead fluorescent lighting and direct sunlight. 

Reflective surfaces, such as teeth and metal fillings, crowns, and bridges, can cause glare and affect the quality of dental images. 

To minimize reflective surfaces, use a diffuser in environments with high concentrations. Adjusting the ISO or camera sensor sensitivity based on the lighting conditions in the office is also recommended. Also, consider using whitening strips to help improve the appearance of teeth in images.

Camera settings

Adjusting camera settings is crucial. For optimal results, the following settings should be used: 

• Aperture or f/stop: Set in manual mode (from f/8 to f/11).
• Shutter speed: Set in manual mode.
• ISO: Set to 100 to maximize image quality and clarity.
• Magnification: Set in manual mode.
• White balance: Set to “flash.”

Blurred images occur when the subject is in motion. Increasing the shutter speed or stabilizing the camera and patient can reduce motion blur.

Extraoral photography tips

While intraoral photography focuses on capturing detailed images of teeth and the oral cavity, extraoral photography involves capturing images of the face and smile.

Patient preparation

Patient preparation is a must to capture accurate and aesthetically pleasing extraoral dental photographs. 

• The patient should be positioned to maintain comfort and relaxation. 
• Create a clean and dry state in the patient’s mouth. 
• Capture the photographs in portrait mode, with a clean, solid, and neutral background, preferably black.

Camera angles, framing, and more

Choosing the right camera angles and framing is essential. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Place the camera at a 90-degree angle from the teeth, with the lens and teeth perpendicular.
• The photo should be taken directly in front of the patient, avoiding any downward or upward angle of view.
• For the right and left bite, the image can be captured without using an intraoral mirror so long as the first molar is revealed. Then, a mirror is needed. Also, retractors must provide a view of the buccal surface of teeth.
• For occlusal views, make sure the patient is in proper occlusion. The image should be centered vertically and horizontally, capturing gingiva on both arches. Buccal corridors should be adequately illuminated. Ensure the photo captures an equal display of posterior dentition.
• Photograph straight on from the buccal aspect angle to capture the mouth from the first molar to the canine portion of the mouth.
• The recommended aperture settings for extraoral photography are from f/8 to f/11.
• Soft and even lighting adjusted to the patient’s skin tone is needed.
• Camera-mounted flashes provide optimal lighting.
• Lastly, the teeth should be clean and dry. Make sure no saliva is present.

Digital photography is vital in modern dentistry, providing information for diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient communication. Dental professionals can capture high-quality intraoral and extraoral images by selecting the right equipment, mastering various techniques, and overcoming common challenges. With the proper knowledge and tools, dental professionals can excel and achieve more in dental photography, impacting your experience and, thus, your practice.

If you have questions or are a dentist looking for more guidance on intraoral scanning and digital dentistry, contact Dandy.

Sources

Dental IQ. Digital photography in dentistry: Tools and techniques to help your patients and improve your practice.https://www.dentistryiq.com/dentistry/products/imaging-scanning-and-photography/article/16352333/digital-photography-in-dentistry-tools-and-techniques-to-help-your-patients-and-improve-your-practice

Dentistry Today. The vision of digital dental photography. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17555193/

Dental Claim Support. 2 benefits to investing in an intraoral camera for your dental practice: claims and patient trust. https://www.dentalclaimsupport.com/blog/2-benefits-invest-intraoral-camera-dental-claim-insurance

The International journal of periodontics & restorative dentistry. Dynamic Documentation of the Smile and the 2D/3D Digital Smile Design Process https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28196157/

International Journal of Dentistry. Technique for Orthodontic Clinical Photographs Using a Smartphone. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8800594/#:~:text=Orthodontic%20clinical%20photographs%20consist%20of,equipment%20in%20our%20daily%20lives.

RDH. Mouth mirror magic. https://www.rdhmag.com/career-profession/personal-wellness/article/16407163/mouth-mirror-magic

The post How to take intraoral and extraoral photographs appeared first on Dandy.

If you are unfamiliar with the term the World Journal of Clinical Cases states, “Fear of missing out [FOMO] is a relatively new construct.” It is associated with “social media usage and can be experienced as a range of negative emotions and feelings related to the need to belong.” 

Most people experience FOMO when witnessing others having material items beyond their circumstances or attending popular events. But what if FOMO was a motivation for positive change? What if those occurrences of FOMO are situations that could be for your benefit?

As many dental professionals are still stuck in the analog world, witnessing the changing technology and others’ success because they transformed from traditional dental practices using digital dental technology, there must be a sense of FOMO. However, there is a way to alleviate the “fear” and the “missing out.” You can evade FOMO by improving your office with digital dental technology and partnering with the right digital dental labs. 

Consider a revolutionized dental field where all your restorations created have incredible accuracy, and the final product is of industry-leading quality with fewer remakes. Incorporating digital dental laboratories into your practice workflows can improve patient experiences and satisfaction. That is the success of digital dental labs. 

The benefits of digital dentistry reveal what a digital dental lab is capable of and how they are transforming the landscape of dental care. Resources like a digital lab and tools are within your reach. But before we discuss the differences between traditional dental procedures and digital dentistry, let’s review the conventional dental lab process.

The traditional dental lab process

For years, the traditional dental lab process was the same. Before digital dentistry, dental care relied heavily on manual processes. The conventional dental lab makes dental restorations using physical dental impressions and plaster models that require time and effort to develop and produce restorative pieces.

Traditional impressions of teeth use various materials to create negative molds of a patient’s teeth. The most common materials are the following: 

• Alginate – a powder compound made from seaweed or kelp. Water is added, and it becomes a putty-like substance. 
• Polyether vinyl silicones (PVS) – a silicone-based material
• Vinyl polysiloxane (VPS) – a silicone-based material
• Vinyl polyether siloxane (VPES) – a silicone hybrid material 

Unfortunately, impression materials can take two to five minutes to set correctly and are subject to shrinkage and change. That means recasts and more chair time for patients.

Some manufacturers developed different flavors that can be added to the alginate and other material to make it taste a little better and provide as pleasant an experience as possible. However, this additive may not work with individuals with a horrible gag reflex, and complaints about the taste have occurred.

There are several steps to the traditional impression process. They are:

• Step 1 – Place the putty in the tray, put it into the patient’s mouth, and push it against their teeth for a solid impression.
• Step 2 – The impression material needs time to harden.
• Step 3 – Repeat the process, if needed
• Step 4 – Remove the tray. Assist the patient in cleaning residue out of their mouth.
• Step 5 – Send the impression to a traditional dental lab

The time-consuming process prolongs patient treatment and leaves room for human error. Gaps in production time lead to dissatisfaction and frustration. 

The limitations of traditional dental labs are clear, and the need for a more efficient, accurate, and patient-friendly solution is apparent. That is the purpose behind the digital dental laboratory.

What is a digital dental laboratory?

Digital dental labs are an innovative approach to dental care. This operation designs and manufactures restorations and prostheses of all kinds using digital techniques. A digital dental laboratory is characterized by utilizing advanced technology, such as intraoral scanners and chairside software used by the dentist to aid design and manufacturing with unparalleled precision and efficiency. 

Digital dentistry includes tools and technology in a dental practice or a digital dental laboratory. They are:

• CAD/CAM systems for the design and fabrication of dental restorations 
• Intraoral scanners for digital impressions 
• Digital imaging systems like cone beam computed tomography are becoming increasingly popular for diagnostics and implant treatment planning.
• Chairside milling systems or 3D printers for fabrication

Utilizing digital impressions, digital dental molds, CAD/CAM and 3D printing, and lab management software, digital dental labs are producing restorations and appliances with unprecedented precision and efficiency. These technologies are revolutionizing how dentists practice, allowing for a more streamlined and accurate patient experience. The purpose of a dental laboratory is to provide dentists with custom-made and ready-made dental products. 

Types of digital restorations and appliances

Digital dental labs can produce digital designs for various restorations and appliances, including crowns, bridges, veneers, dentures, implants, and orthodontic appliances (including clear aligners). By utilizing advanced digital technologies, dental professionals can create repairs and appliances tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring a better fit and improved clinical outcomes.

Such restorations and appliances include:

• Crowns, Bridges, and Veneers
• Dentures and implants
• Orthodontic Appliances

Utilizing digital customization and assemblage ensures patients receive the best fitting and highest quality products, even for complex cases. It improves patient satisfaction and helps ensure treatment success, especially orthodontics.

A successful process must include dentists incorporating digital workflows and advanced digital dental technologies into their practices. These same dental professionals can now treat patients with high-quality restorations in a fraction of the time required by traditional methods. 

How does a digital dental lab work compared to a traditional one?

The critical difference between a digital dental lab and a traditional dental lab lies in the technology employed. While conventional dental labs rely on manual labor and physical impressions, digital dental labs utilize cutting-edge technology to create digital impressions and restorations of the patient’s teeth.

This technological shift not only streamlines the fabrication process but also enhances the accuracy and efficiency of dental restorations, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes. Here are the most important motions that digital dental labs impact. 

Digital impressions

Gone are the days of uncomfortable and messy impression materials. Digital impressions are captured using intraoral scanners, which provide detailed 3D images of the patient’s teeth and gums for more accurate treatment planning. 

The learning curve for the digital impressions technique is quick. One study showed proficiency in about ten scans. This is understandable with an intraoral scanner designed for ease of use.

Digital impressions eliminate many of the variables associated with conventional impressions, giving dental technicians more precise data to design from and ensuring a better fit for the final restoration. 

Digital dental models

Digital dental models or molds are virtual replicas of the patient’s oral anatomy created using 3D scanning technology. These digital molds accurately represent the patient’s teeth, gums, and other soft tissue, allowing dental professionals to design restorations and appliances with greater precision and efficiency.

The digital molds are created by a 3D intraoral scanner and design software, capturing the patient’s oral anatomy in high resolution. This data is then used to create a virtual replica of the patient’s teeth. Once a digital impression file is made, it can be used repeatedly. If a patient loses a mouthguard, the file can be accessed, and a new one can be made without repeating the digital impression process.

CAD/CAM and 3D printing

Computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology is at the heart of the digital dental lab. It is used to design and mill dental restorations and appliances. This computer-aided process ensures high precision and reproducibility, improving clinical outcomes. Additionally, 3D printing technology is employed to construct physical models of the teeth and gums from digital simulations, further streamlining the production process and minimizing errors.

Lab management software

Digital dental labs often employ Laboratory Information Management Systems or LIMS to ensure a smooth and efficient workflow. This software aids in streamlining processes, reducing errors, and increasing the accuracy of data by cataloging information, automating traditional workflows, integrating instruments, and organizing inventory.

By utilizing lab management software, or digital solutions, dental labs can provide faster, more reliable service to interface with their dental professional partners. A LIMS with a service agreement also enables your practice hardware and software digital solutions with additional services, like diagnostics.

Benefits of working with a digital dental lab

The advantages of collaborating with a digital dental lab are numerous and far-reaching. From shortened turnaround times to increased accuracy and helping save money, digital dental labs provide dental professionals with a superior solution for creating dental restorations and appliances. Here is a detailed list of the benefits of working with a digital dental lab.

• Faster Turnaround Time – Time is a proxy for money and one of the most significant assets of working with a digital lab like Dandy. The speed of a digital lab surpasses a traditional one. Patients receive restorations speedily, which is substantial for those in urgent need. That is also an improved patient experience.
• Customization – Digital labs can design and create need-based restorations for patients’ requirements. For example, digital dentures can be customized to the distinct need of the patient’s anatomy, thus making the dentures more comfortable without revisions. 
• Higher Accuracy – With digital technology like an intraoral scanner, 3D printers, and CAD/CAM milling devices, digital labs provide a higher level of accuracy for dental restorations—above the results of traditional labs. More exact products require fewer adjustments. 
• Advanced Quality Control – Integrating digital technology into workflows and using a digital dental lab ensures refined accuracy and predictable outcomes for all fabricated dental prostheses and restorations. Improved quality control saves on returns and creates a better customer experience.
• Enhanced Effective Communication – Digital dental labs, such as Dandy, have prioritized contact and dialogue between dental professionals and labs. The sharing of information and sending digital files is all done virtually. In the case of Dandy, their in-app guidance, shared file capability, practice portal, and mobile app keep communication between the lab and practice front and center. 

Dentists and digital labs can collaborate seamlessly to design and produce dental restorations and appliances. The efficient exchange of information improves case workflow and ensures that both parties work with the most accurate and up-to-date information. Digital files also remove the need for paper options, making the digital workflow the eco-friendly choice.

• Coordinating Treatment Plans  – Coordinating treatment plans between dental professionals and digital dental laboratories is crucial for ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients. Through effective communication and collaboration, dental professionals and labs can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets each patient’s unique needs. By synchronizing their efforts and sharing information, dental professionals and digital dental labs can provide patients with the highest level of care and achieve the best possible results.
• Greater Collaborative Capabilities – The higher level of knowledge exchange through secure digital networks leaves less room for errors and elevates the collaboration between dental professionals and digital dental labs. This collaboration improves the quality and efficiency of dental care and fosters a stronger working relationship between dental professionals and their lab partners.
• Lower Overhead and Costs – Digital dental practices and labs with automated processes and less manual labor are more economical than traditional methods. This affordability can be passed onto the patient, reducing overhead for any dental health care provider.

By embracing dental technology, establishing a digital workflow, and integrating them into their practices, dental professionals can offer their patients a higher standard of care, resulting in greater patient satisfaction and improved clinical outcomes.

Selecting the right digital dental lab

Choosing the right digital dental lab is critical for dental professionals looking to incorporate digital dentistry into their practices. When evaluating digital dental labs, assessing the technology and materials used and the support services provided by dental laboratories is essential.

Selecting a digital dental lab that aligns with your practice’s needs and values can establish a successful partnership and provide your patients with the highest quality dental care.

Assessing Technology and Materials

Choosing the right digital dental lab for your practice is vital. That means evaluating the lab’s technology, design software, and materials. That evaluation includes examining the digital dental scanners, 3D printers, milling machines, and other equipment used to design and produce dental restorations and appliances. One application that dental professionals highly desire is a portal to access a lab’s team or a mobile app that gives access to information anywhere, at any time.

By ensuring that the lab’s technology and materials meet your practice’s standards, you can be confident in the quality and accuracy of the restorations and appliances produced.

Evaluating support services

Another significant factor to consider when selecting a digital dental lab is the level of support services provided. Services should include technical support, troubleshooting, customer service, and training opportunities. At Dandy, our training is second to none. A digital dental lab that offers comprehensive support services can ensure a smooth and successful collaboration. Ultimately, adopting digital workflows for your dental practice leads to better patient outcomes and more efficiency.

Pro tips: Questions to ask a potential dental lab partner.

Overall impact

Digital dental labs are transforming the landscape of dental care by offering a more efficient, accurate, and patient-friendly solution for dental restorations and appliances. By embracing digital dental technologies and working closely with digital dental labs, dentists and dental specialists can provide patients with a higher standard of care and achieve better clinical outcomes.

As the future of dentistry continues to unfold, digital dental labs will play a critical role in shaping the way dental care is provided and experienced by patients. Digital dental labs help improve the way dental health care professionals encounter control over their practices and compete with others in their area for new customers now and in years to come.

Are you thinking about converting to using a digital lab? Don’t miss out on becoming more efficient, revenue-enhancing, and highly competitive. Contact Dandy, embrace the future of digital dentistry, and avoid FOMO.

Sources

Journal of the History of Dentistry. The Historical Evolution of Dental Impression Materials.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28777510/

ScienceDirect. A clinical study comparing digital scanning and conventional impression making for implant-supported prostheses: A crossover clinical trial.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022391321000287

ScienceDirect. Impression Material.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/impression-material

Cleveland Clinic. Dental Impressions.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22671-dental-impressions

Dentistry Today. Three Impression Material Classifications: A Comparison

BMC Oral Health. Learning curve of digital intraoral scanning – an in vivo study.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7574448/

BMC Oral Health. Comparison of digital and conventional impression techniques: evaluation of patients’ perception, treatment comfort, effectiveness, and clinical outcomes.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24479892/

The post The difference between a digital dental lab and an analog lab appeared first on Dandy.

The leading cause for using dentures, cited by the CDC, is gum disease. Untreated tooth decay, oral cancer, and chronic conditions also contribute to periodontal disease leading to tooth loss, dental implants, or dentures. Then there is the denture case resulting from mouth trauma.

Numbers are expected to increase over the next 20 years. The reason is attributed to the rising number of adults over 65, with 90 percent suffering from complete edentulism and needing dentures. Partial dentures will also increase to more than 200 million people, nearly a quarter of the U.S. population. 

Dentists understand that dentures are the answer to improving dental health and providing maximum comfort while enhancing smiles. To compensate for the rise in dentures, doctors seek explanations for efficiency and workflow issues. 

The solution? Digital Dentures. 

What are digital dentures?

Digital Dentures are dental prosthetics that benefit from the evolution of digital dentistry technology, such as intraoral scanners, chairside software, and other digital tools. Dental technology transforms dental offices into competitive tech-savvy practices producing excellent patient experiences and effective results.

There are advantages of digital-designed dentures over traditional ones. The traditional dentures process can be laborious, time-consuming, and costly. Associated workflows require several appointments. Dental technology is a benefit to both the dentist and patients alike.

With digital technology, dentists can utilize intraoral scanners for a digital denture impression. Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing technology (CAD/CAM) take the process into the next phase of the final set of Digital Dentures that are 3D printed. 

Digitally designed dentures can be reprinted as a swift remedy to the loss of dentures by patients. The key is partnering with a state-of-the-art digital denture lab.

Depending on the manufacturing process, material, scanning, and laboratory quality, Digital Dentures fit in a scientifically proven way. An added edge to the advanced technology creates fast returns from the labs and quick remakes. 

The entire process can take two or three appointments, depending on the type of dentures needed. To understand what Digital Dentures offer, let’s compare them to conventional complete dentures.

Digital dentures with Dandy

As your denture lab, you’ll be able to offer your patients 2-appointment dentures.

Explore Digital Dentures

Digital dentures vs. conventional dentures.

There are two types of conventional dentures: complete or partial dentures. Partials are prostheses for individuals with missing teeth but do not require full dentures.

Partials are removable and can be used by the patient without assistance. Partials usually attach to abutting natural teeth using a precision locator attachment or metal clasp.

The ease of accessibility creates an opportunity for cleaning and maintenance. Additionally, partials require a minimum amount of tooth preparation to support the device. 

A complete set of dentures are a removable prosthesis to replace natural teeth with a complete set of new teeth. Traditional dentures are labor-intensive and daunting for patients. However, in modern dentistry, dentures have evolved. 

Digital denture workflow

Materials used

First, the materials used can be a differentiator. “Prosthodontic Treatment for Edentulous Patients” states, “Biocompatibility is now considered a fundamental requirement for dental restoration. It depends on the host’s condition, properties of the material, and the context in which the material is being used, namely its interaction with its environment.”  

Biocompatible materials are necessary as partial and complete dentures are required to “perform more adequately for longer.” Materials should have the following characteristics:

• Minimal harmful effects on oral tissue, including non-toxic, non-irritating, non allergenic, and non carcinogenic material.
• Degradation of the material has a minimal chemical effect.
• The material must possess optimal physical properties for clinical and mechanical objectives, including hardness, elasticity, and strength. There is also wear resistance and adequate thermal coefficient of expansion and conductivity properties.  
• Aesthetically acceptable properties that provide ease of fabrication, manipulation, and cleansing.  
• The material must be readily available, economical to use, and allows for easy, inexpensive maintenance and repairs.

The most common denture materials used as the base, according to the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, are:

• Acrylic Resin – Sometimes called PMMA, it can be classified based on composition and the polymerization activators: heat cured, light cured, or cold cured. PMMA is the most widely used for its adjustability and comfort value. Their caveat is proper care. Without it, they lack longevity and risk of infections because of the coarse nature of the material.
• Porcelain – Porcelain is a patient favorite for traditional dentures. It has strength and durability. But it can be cost-prohibitive, and its processing demands intense heat. Still, the aesthetics and translucency of the material provide a natural appearance. As for partials, they are not as popular because porcelain can wear down the surrounding natural teeth.
• Metal Partial Dentures – This type of denture is smaller and uses a metal base. Patients find it easier to tolerate its size. They also like the color compatibility of the high-quality resin, the sensible profile, and the natural look of the composite denture teeth. Yet, this partial denture can be more costly than acrylic dentures by as much as 75 percent.

Method of production

The next variation for conventional dentures is the method of production. Traditional dentures require a lengthy process with multiple patient visits and extended adjustment time. Every additional touchpoint can lead to potential errors in production. That is why dentists are converting to digital dentistry and incorporating digital denture labs into their processing. Now, envision how 3D-printed dentures can financially impact your practice and patient.

There are many essential steps to the conventional denture design process. The core steps include the following: 

• Preliminary impressions use stock trays to construct an initial fit estimate of the patient’s mouth. Once placed, it must be pushed against their teeth. Wax enhancements of the tray periphery may be needed. When the material is poured into the dental stone, a vibrator device fills voids and releases trapped air.

• Definitive impressions – Adjustments for aesthetics and fit is performed as determinants of bite, tooth layout, and gingival contours are revealed. Customized denture trays create master impressions sent to a lab for the final model. 
• Establish VDO – Establishing the patient’s vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) and bite for conventional dentures is determined by a wax tray. 
• Wax-Try-in – Patients return for a wax model try-in of the dentures or partial teeth. Patients test the bite so that the dentist can confirm VDO, comfort, and alignment. 
• Adjustments and delivery – After adjustments, the dentist inserts the final dentures. Depending on the patient’s needs, they may require more adjustments. 

There is a more promising, streamlined approach for both dentists and patients alike—Digital Dentures. Additionally, incorporating digital workflows into the existing denture fabrication process enables more patients to be seen in a short amount of time. The key is in the training.

Good training results in quick, clean, complete scans with no dental putty in trays. Additionally, digital dentures’ cost is more accommodating to patients.

The new solution: Digital dentures in 2 Appointments

Traditional denture processing is now obsolete due to digital dentistry. Workflows are streamlined by technology and more efficient due to Dandy’s 2-Appointment model. 

Digital denture appointment 1: The scan

Initial appointments will begin with an intraoral scan of the upper and lower arches. The dentist will then scan the patient’s bite through a dentition or appliance. This process creates an accurate digital model exported as a digital file to a dental laboratory. 

Using CAD/CAM dentistry technology, Dandy’s expert digital denture design team will review scans and the digital file, ensuring that even the most complex Digital Denture cases fit perfectly.

Making digital dentures have never been easier. Using the most advanced 3D carbon printers, industry-leading 3D printed dentures made of Dentsply Lucitone. The other option is a solid block milled denture teeth with High Impact Acrylic bases from the Ivoclar Ivotion System, the Digital Dentures with industry-leading strength. They have scientifically proven durability. The 3D printing expedites the process. 

Digital denture appointment 2: The fitting

The lab will send the dentist the final denture model about one week later. The model will likely have an optimal fit thanks to digital technology. There may be minor adjustments for a few patients. However, the lack of adjustments means reduced patient chair time. 

Yes, your patient will have a brand-new smile in just two appointments.

Digital Dentures in 3 Appointments for edentulous patients

The design process of digital dentures can vary. It may require one additional appointment. The challenge with traditional dentures is the patient’s bite, not with the digital denture process.

The doctor or dental technician will perform an upper and lower scan of the edentulous arches. As with other digital dentures or prosthetics, the scan is uploaded and sent to the lab, and a wax rim will be created. Then, the lab will ship it to the dentist. 

Once received, the patient must come into the dental office for the second appointment. The dentist will register the bite using the wax rim and perform a 360° scan. This scan will be digitally merged with the intraoral scan to construct a complete model.

The patient returns for the third appointment when the lab finishes the 3D printing or fabrication. The model will be inserted for a fantastic fit.

Benefits of the digital denture workflow

The pain points of the traditional denture process impact dentists and patients similarly: 

• Multiple appointments
• Increased time in the chair
• Numerous touch points
• An extended wait for the finished product

Dandy’s digital process will eliminate many of the impediments of the digital workflow. The benefits of this process include: 

• Fewer appointments
• Improved turnaround time
• Quick replacements
• Increased cost-effectiveness
• Greater accuracy, less human error, and reduced manual labor

The precision of intraoral scanners’ technology provides accurate and consistent final models for dental practices. They have fewer chairside adjustments, costly re-dos, or issues with shipping the physical product back and forth. Fewer touchpoints lead to less human error.

If you are considering adopting Digital Dentures at your dental practice, let Dandy help you transform into the digital age. Learn how digital dental technology workflows can improve your dental practice. 

Sources

Statista. U.S. population: Do you use dentures https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/adult-oral-health/adult_older.htm

American College of Prosthodontics. Facts & Figures. https://www.gotoapro.org/facts-figures/

Web MD. Dental Health and Dentures. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-health-dentures/

DDS Labs. The Ten Steps to Denture Fabrication https://blog.ddslab.com/the-10-steps-to-denture-fabrication

Elsevier Health Sciences. “Prosthodontic Treatment for Edentulous Patients.” https://www.amazon.com/Prosthodontic-Treatment-Edentulous-Patients-Implant-Supported-ebook/dp/B00G9UANBG/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Journal of the history of dentistry. The Historical Evolution of Dental Impression Materials. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28777510/

International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Modification of Polymer Based Dentures on Biological Properties: Current Update, Status, and Findings https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9499318/#B30-ijms-23-10426

Spear. Conventional Complete Denture Fabrication in 9 Steps https://www.speareducation.com/spear-review/2015/10/conventional-complete-denture-fabrication-in-9-steps

Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences. Advantages of CAD/CAM versus Conventional Complete Dentures. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30159084/

The post How digital denture processes compare to traditional denture processes appeared first on Dandy.

According to a 2023 study by the Health Policy Institute and the American Dental Association (ADA), less than 25% of practice owners have confidence in an economic recovery for their offices soon. That is a daunting outlook, and the topic is especially vital for new dental clinics. 

But do not be afraid. 

New patient growth is attained with a business-savvy mind, embracing digital change, identifying necessary actions, and following prescriptive steps to achieving goals The growth of many dental facilities stemmed from technological advances in imaging tools, teledentistry, and 3D printing. We have some proven approaches to help you succeed in drawing more patients going forward through smart marketing, adding more treatments, and in-practice programs.

How to get more dental patients

The dilemma of attracting new patients to a dental practice is not uncommon. But what has sustained dentists in the past may not work as well in the digital era. How do you construct a balanced method comprising traditional efforts for offline patients and modern ones for those who utilize technology and social media? The answer is that you have to ask the right questions. 

Questions must be answered for each practice to determine its new direction. From that starting point, primary importance is placed on developing a comprehensive marketing strategy based on budget constraints, overall needs, and competitors’ offerings. 

Develop a comprehensive dental marketing plan

A comprehensive marketing plan should comprise online and offline strategies to attract patients, including search engine optimization, social media marketing, email campaigns, and traditional advertising methods. The Dandy Dental Study: Patient Experience found what patients, particularly new ones, seek:

• Same or next-day appointments
• Night or weekend hours
• Minimal waiting room time
• Convenient locations

High-performing offices address these issues by:

• Minimizing cancellations with reminders
• Maximizing efficiency by seeing more patients per day
• Increasing case acceptance
• Improving communication with patient communication technology

To formulate a good marketing approach, be prepared to answer questions on subjects like:

• Practice size and desired demographics: Does your practice cater to a particular segment of patients, such as pediatrics, geriatric, or the general population? Are you a boutique practice, or does it serve a larger demography? These points influence and streamline your choice of advertising and budget.
• Technology: Dental technology is constantly progressing; many patients seek offices with a tech edge. AI-powered imaging tools, teledentistry, and onsite 3D printing are differentiators. Consider it an investment with a definite Return on Investment (ROI). Tools like an Intraoral Scanner (IOS) improve workflow and patient experience. Also, practice management software and other tech automate your practice, enabling efficiency and growth.
• Level of care for patients and patient experience: Some practices create a patient experience through office aesthetics or a class of patient care, such as a concierge service. Think about the patient experience you want to establish for your practice and go for it. However, there are standards to be set against your competition, which takes some comparison investigation. 
• Solo or multiple practitioners: Are you the sole practitioner, or are there other providers? How will this affect the amount of new patients you will need? 
• Available budget to create changes: Budgets are not just about allocating funds towards initiatives. It is about understanding the value of investing in the right endeavors to provide a return. The Pareto Principle or Rule states that 80% of your return or outcomes derive from 20% of your investment or efforts. Develop a plan that focuses on your top 20% problems. 
• Staffing: Dental teams should be well-educated, experienced, and composed of individuals with an excellent chair-side manner. The same holds for front office staff. Your focus is to enhance the patient experience. 
• Establish the percentage of patient attrition: On average, dental practices lose 17 to 25% of their patient base yearly. The deterioration of patients is primarily due to loss of insurance and job changes. Also, staff size will impact patient loss due to the inability to serve them efficiently.
• The number of new patients: You need to improve the overall value of your patient base. But how many need to cross your threshold? This number varies between practices. Statistics show that a single provider or a dentist, part of a more considerable practice, needs 20 to 25 new patients each month to mitigate patient loss.
• Utilize email marketing campaigns: Are you sending regular newsletters and updates to your patient list to inform them about your dental services and any special offers? Email marketing campaigns help you stay connected with your existing patients, share news and promotions, and encourage referrals.

Monitor and analyze marketing performance: Tools like Google Analytics track your website’s performance, measure the success of your marketing campaigns, and make data-driven decisions. Monitoring and analyzing marketing performance is essential for identifying areas for improvement and bettering your strategies for raising results.

Understand patient demand and target your ideal patients

Understanding the needs and concerns of your target audience is at the top of your list. But who is your target audience? Here is some exciting news to factor into your strategy: women are responsible for 70 to 80% of all consumer purchases in the US and make most healthcare and dental buying decisions. Consequently, research shows that women need to hear your Unique Value Proposition (UVP). A UVP includes: 

• Relevancy: Explain how your products or services solve customers’ problems or improve their situation.
• Value: Deliver specific benefits that can be assessed, quantified, and tracked. Other metrics to check include the following:
  • Impressions: This is not made with alginate or an IOS device. It is the number of people who view your advertising content. Warning: this does not include repeat views of your online content.
  • Visits: This refers to how many people visit your website. It doesn’t account for how long they stay on the site.
  • Leads: You need to know how many leads your marketing efforts generate.
  • Conversion rate: How many leads convert to actionable responses to your marketing motions.
  • Lead close rate: Are your leads turning into patients? This number shows if your marketing efforts are strategically successful.
  • Cost per lead: How much money do you spend on each lead? By breaking down the total amount spent per lead, you will know if it costs you too much or not enough. 
  • Cost per acquisition: Discovering how much you spend on conversions helps adjust your fee schedule to accommodate the cost.
• Differentiation: This strategy effort informs potential customers why they should choose you and your services over the competition.

Statistics show that women have considerable purchasing power that shouldn’t be ignored. Researchers and marketers call it the Female Economy or “SHEconomy.” Women investigate, respond to online reviews, listen to, and give more referrals than men. They also make most of the healthcare decisions. Marketing to women is a significant opportunity in today’s economy. 

Knowing your market focus enables you to design messages that resonate and encourage people to take action. Building trust with patients is particularly important, as they will recommend your services to friends and family. So, address oral health concerns and showcase your expertise in your marketing materials. 

Marketing playbooks must be rooted in a tangible UVP regardless of your marketing methods. The beginning efforts should focus on your website, which will be the face of your marketing efforts and your voice to potential patients.

Craft and optimize a user-friendly website for dental patients

Standing out in a crowd takes work. Your website can be a make-or-break effort in the virtual world. An optimized dental practice website is essential for attracting new patients and retaining existing ones. 

To accomplish this goal, your website must be user-friendly, informative, and easy to navigate. You want to engage potential patients and provide a seamless experience.

Your website should include:

• An appealing home page
• A list of provided dental services 
• Contact information 
• Online scheduling capability
• An embedded map with your practice’s address
• Clear, high-quality photos of your dentists, hygienists, and other personnel
• A blog about your practice or dentistry in general
• Positive reviews and testimonials from current patients
• Links to your social media pages

Also, make sure your site translates to mobile devices. In our smartphone-centric age, websites need to be mobile-friendly. 

Boost your online presence with SEO.

Search engine optimization (SEO) is vital in attracting new dental patients. Following SEO best practices—including relevant dental keywords and backlinking to trusted sources—you can be among the first results when someone Googles “dentists near me.” 

Utilize various online resources to learn SEO basics and increase your dental clinic’s brand awareness. However, there are three different types of SEO tactics.

• Local SEO: Increases views in local online search results and generates patient leads. Keep your business information accurate and up-to-date. It attracts more local patients and enhances your practice’s online presence. To improve your local SEO:
  • Claim your dental practice page on significant directories like Google My Business.
  • List your business on Bing Places for Business.
  • Optimize your website with local keywords and location-specific content.
  • Encourage online reviews from satisfied patients.
• On-page SEO: Enlarges your dental website’s reach and individual web pages to boost ranking in search engine results. Implement strategies that drive potential patients to your website, such as keyword optimization, meta tags, content optimization, and website structure improvements.
• Off-page SEO: Focuses on improving your website’s reputation and authority through activities outside the website. These activities include building backlinks, generating positive reviews, and increasing social signals. Positive reviews on platforms like Google boost your online reputation and search engine rankings. Satisfied patient reviews are critical. Respond professionally to negative feedback to maintain a positive online image.

New patient promotions: Incentives for growth

Once new patients discover your practice online and your dental office is ready to receive more interest, incentivize people to walk through your doors. Deliver relevant dental services by expanding your repertoire and enhancing the patient experience for current and new patients. Some dental marketing ideas include:

• Hosting local events
• Collaborating with local businesses 
• Encourage patients to leave positive reviews online. 

The last item is particularly noteworthy. Word-of-mouth leads to new patient numbers. However, the highest facilitator of that amount is directly tied to patient experience. 

If your budget allows, engage a marketer or an agency that demonstrates domain knowledge and aids other medical practices. If the budget isn’t there, consider independent or contract workers who will bring your initiatives to life. Finding freelancers through word of mouth or websites like Fiverr, Upwork, or MarketHire is a step in the right direction. Be sure to check references and gravitate toward sites that vet their participants. 

Alternatively, try hiring office staff to assist you with online communication and social media. Evaluate hiring office staff that also work with you on your marketing plan and create or update your website. Here are a few more ideas to incorporate into your marketing programs.

• Implement in-office promotions, seasonal offers, and event specials: Offer unique promotions and specials, such as free consultations or discounted dental services, to differentiate your practice. Ensure your promotions are better than competing dental practices and communicate your unique selling points.

• Loyalty programs: Ensuring patients return–ensuring patients return–marketing to your customer base impacts retention. Try incentives like:
  • $100 off an oral exam and routine cleaning
  • A free teeth whitening kit
  • A $50 gift card for a future visit
  • A discounted multi-service bundle
• Offer flexible payment options: Cost is a significant prevention for people. To draw on-the-fence patients into your practice, offer promotions that keep bills low for first-time visits. Flexible payment options also make dental care more accessible and attract more patients to your practice. Some possibilities include Financing plans, Discounts, and In-house payment plans.

The trick to attracting new patients through promos is having the best offers in your area. The goal is to convince a patient to choose you over another dentist. Research nearby dental practices to provide a steeper discount or a better package.

Offer comprehensive dental services through new dental technology and innovation

Your dental services offerings should be broad, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatments. Still, there are so many more offerings that increase patient volume. More services make your practice highly convenient for them to receive the dental care they require, especially when they have dental insurance. Another benefit to more services is that it sets your practice apart from competitors who offer limited services. That is a compelling reason to integrate new dental technology into your workflows.

Embrace and invest in advanced dental technology

Investing in advanced dental technology benefits the patient experience, increases efficiency, and attracts tech-savvy patients. Incorporating cutting-edge equipment and tools provides higher-quality dental care, streamlines your practice’s operations, and reduces chairside time.

In a world of high-tech, smart devices, there’s an expectation that everything should work quickly, smoothly, and conveniently. Meet consumer expectations by moving away from traditional processes and toward digital dentistry. This transition is achieved by gradually incorporating digital tools into your practice, training your staff to use them, and educating your patients about their benefits.

New dental technology to look into includes:

• Intraoral scanners: These handheld tools produce high-quality digital scans that create digital dental models, which makes obtaining an oral impression more effortless—for patients and dentists.
• Digital record-keeping: Eliminating paperwork speeds up processes, improves patient access to files, and reduces office clutter.
• CAD/CAM dentistry: Computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) allow for a much quicker design and creation of crowns, dentures, and more.

In addition to your dental practice offerings, consider tele-dentistry services. Providing tele-dentistry services, such as remote consultations, builds patient convenience and attracts new patients. Virtual appointments for preliminary exams and dental treatment recommendations cater to patients who may have difficulty attending in-person appointments or prefer virtual consultations. Embracing tele-dentistry services expands your practice’s reach.

Add services to your dental practice

By adding more offerings to your dental practice you will naturally attract more patients and increase the lifetime value of your current patients. Digital dentistry makes it simple for any general dentist to add Clear Aligners,mandibular advancement devices, and even implants to their practice with some training.

Exceptional customer service: prioritizing patients.

Perhaps most importantly, delivering a world-class patient experience to every patient that comes through your doors is essential. Satisfied customers will tell their family and friends, who may also be looking for a new dentist. 

Especially in medical fields, word-of-mouth marketing still reigns supreme. From person-to-person referrals to online reviews, social proof is everything. Thanks to a glowing recommendation, the more positive experiences you provide, the better your chances of having new patients come in.

Simplify dental office appointment booking

Ideally, you may want to do away with over-the-phone bookings altogether. An online appointment portal reduces user frustration and enhances the quality of life for your receptionists. New patients can make an appointment anytime—even outside of business hours. There is a caveat to this method.

Too often, customers making an appointment turn away when the booking process becomes complicated. Optimizing the appointment scheduling process enhances patient satisfaction and reduces no-shows. Here are some ways to achieve this:

• Implement online booking systems to make scheduling more convenient for your patients.
• Use appointment reminders to reduce the likelihood of missed appointments.
• Streamline your practice’s operations to improve the overall patient experience.

Digital marketing to get more new dental patients

Blogging? Show your expertise and fresh content on the right platforms

Creating educational and engaging blog content helps showcase your expertise, answer common patient questions, and improve your dental website’s search rankings. We would go one step further—create and post trust-building material. 

Regularly update your blog with pertinent articles and resources to provide value to existing and potential patients. Doing so establishes your dental practice as a trusted source of information and attracts more patients. But it’s not just about posting on your website anymore. Welcome to the age of social media marketing.

Leverage social media marketing and share engaging content

With 72% of American adults using social media sites, it’s no surprise that social media marketing is vital for dental practices. Sharing engaging content and interacting with followers enables you to reach potential patients and keep your existing patients informed about your services. 

It’s also an excellent way to showcase your expertise and demonstrate how dental services have benefited patients. This should include educational content about dental health and procedures, patient testimonials, and before-and-after photos of successful treatments. 

What people are looking for is authentic content. According to one social media survey, in 2024, “the most successful brands will redefine authenticity. It’s not about who (or what) creates your content anymore; it’s about the brand experience your content creates for the customer.” 

Make sure to have a strong web presence on popular platforms like Facebook and Instagram to connect with your audience and grow your dental practice. Here are some other ideas for social media usage.

• Interact with followers: Respond to comments, answer questions, and converse with your audience to show that you genuinely care about their concerns and needs. 
• Benefit from video marketing: Utilize video marketing to showcase your practice, share patient testimonials, and provide educational content. 
• Utilize paid advertising campaigns: Paid advertising campaigns, such as Google Ads and Facebook Ads, help you reach an even wider audience. Targeting keywords and audience ensures that your ads are relevant and appealing to potential patients searching for dental services. 

Reaching potential new patients through ads is only half the battle. Once an interested user clicks on your sponsored post or ad, they must end up somewhere. That somewhere should be your high-quality website.

Direct mail marketing: reaching offline patients.

While digital marketing is critical in today’s world, traditional advertising methods like print, radio, and TV are effective when used wisely, especially among older generations. Target the right audience and craft compelling messages to make the most of your traditional advertising efforts. Doing so reaches potential patients who may not be as active online. Try experimenting by throwing a few dollars into a different conventional marketing campaign, like mail or email, and measure what works best. 

Dental patient referrals: Expanding through satisfied patients

Online reviews are crucial for building confidence and credibility with potential patients. This methodology is only accomplished by establishing and keeping a favorable patient experience. When you successfully create a trusted place for treatment, people will talk about it. Here are some ideas that will aid your endeavors.

• Encourage online reviews: Positive reviews significantly impact your dental practice’s reputation. They also aid search engine rankings. Make it easy for your patients to leave reviews by sending follow-up emails or phone calls after appointments or displaying a review request in your waiting area. 

One of the keys to success is being able to differentiate yourself from the competition and solidify an excellent first impression. Nothing is as convincing as a patient’s voice. So, how do you get your patients to speak on your behalf? Simply ask. Unsure of a response or how to facilitate the conversation? Try a survey to reveal how a patient feels about your practice. 

• The role of surveys: Surveys should be considered a form of feedback. They let you know where there are holes and successes in your workflow or patient experience. They come in four primary forms:
  • In-person interviews: A quick question-answer session with a staff member when the patient checks out helps understand their sentiment. Sometimes, an in-person conversation mitigates any miscommunication or wrongdoing by staff.
  • Paper surveys: Paper surveys are a traditional method. Though they are the most expensive technique due to the cost, time, and personnel to process answers, they are also helpful in data collection. They go where tech can’t—straight into the hands of patients.

• Telephone surveys: A call from your office manager following up after a procedure can be an impetus for a referral.
• Online: Online surveys are inexpensive, and responses are quickly reviewed. For example, an email with a post-procedure thank you card with survey questions. Surveys should be designed for instinctual use and simplicity. Respondents should be given time to respond to questions independently to answer without bias. 

When patients respond positively, they should be approached for referrals and online reviews. However, don’t ignore negative responses. They deserve immediate attention and redirection. 

Community outreach: Building awareness

Community outreach is a great way to increase your dental practice’s visibility and establish credibility within your local community. Here are a few ways to get your name out.

• Volunteer your services: One of the best brand reputations for your practice is to be known for empathy and compassion. Volunteering at in-need schools, eldercare facilities, or charitable organizations is a way to give back to your community while expanding your presence. 
• Engage with local organizations: Create meaningful connections with potential patients through local organizations, such as charitable institutions, boost your brand awareness, and attract more patients to your dental practice.
• Sponsor local events: The events need not be ostentatious. They can be simple and properly placed. Advertising by sponsoring teams at local schools or sports clubs has always been a keen choice. Imagine how many parents will see your logo and name on their kid’s uniform or outfield banner.
• Develop partnerships with local businesses: Collaborate with businesses with a similar target audience, such as orthodontists, pediatricians, or fitness centers. Doing so creates mutually beneficial relationships that help your practice and the partnering business grow.
• Stay active in professional networks: It’s essential to stay informed about dental industry trends, collaborate with peers, and acquire referrals from other dental professionals. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and participate in online forums to build your network and share knowledge with other dental professionals.

Every opportunity to share your vision and purpose enables you to grow your clientele and business. See your efforts as an investment in your office’s future. Another worthy investment is your staff. 

Skilled staffing: the key to outstanding service and incredible patient experience

Providing exceptional customer service is critical for creating a positive patient experience, encouraging loyalty, and generating word-of-mouth referrals. Ensure that your dental team is:

• Professional, courteous, and attentive to your patient’s needs
• Fosters a positive practice atmosphere
• Keeps your patients coming back for future dental care

The patient experience is something that has many moving parts. Your staff weaves personalities, abilities, and consistent care into a personal encounter that begins when they find you online or walk through your door. The experience continues through each procedure until they leave. And they take it with them. One damaging episode will sever the patient relationship.

People share their impressions of you and your staff, not just your capabilities. So, choose and invest wisely in the people you hire. Another ‘area’ to consider is your waiting room.

Welcoming waiting room: A comfortable environment

A waiting room is not only a place to wait. It is a gathering space for patients and families. Depending on the type of practice, the wait time may fluctuate. The dental office decor should be functional and pleasing to the eye. It should have niches where visitors can read or watch TV. A pediatric practice must have a play area for kids. 

Many practices incorporate work areas with complimentary WiFi connections and tech-enabled tables. The desire is to create a place of less stress where time passes productively. Your goal is a waiting room that messages the importance of time and the patient.

Attract new dental patients and grow your practice with Dandy

Growing your dental practice requires a comprehensive approach that includes developing a marketing plan, targeting your ideal patients, leveraging SEO and social media marketing, implementing a referral program, offering flexible payment options, and staying active in professional networks. 

Maintaining a strong brand identity through dental marketing campaigns is vital in distinguishing your dental practice from competitors. Consistently communicate your practice’s values, mission, and unique selling points across all marketing channels to create a cohesive brand image. Doing so establishes your dental practice as a trusted provider of dental services and attracts more patients.

By following these proven strategies, you entice more patients, expand your practice, and provide exceptional dental care to your community.

Attracting new and more dental patients requires a complete toolbox of strategies. Don’t pick just one from the provided list. Incorporate as many suggestions that work for your practice. If you had to pick just one—improve the dental patient experience.

Ready to take your dental practice to the next level? Then, partner with Dandy.

Dandy is the original, fully digital dental lab. Our technology and tools aid in reducing chair time with digital scans and workflows. Want to give your new and existing patients the best possible experience? Get started with Dandy today.

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