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Monday, June 30, 2014
Cute Smile Dental, a Cosmetic Dentist Office Located in the Reseda, CA Launches a Brand New Practice Website
Dental practice in Reseda, CA called Cute Smile Dental launches new practice website.
Oral bacteria create a 'fingerprint' in your mouth
The bacteria in the human mouth -- particularly those nestled under the gums -- are as powerful as a fingerprint at identifying a person's ethnicity, new research shows.
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Restore Dull Smiles with Teeth Whitening in Midtown
Dr. Douglas Lott, a Midtown dentist, can give you that glistening, glowing smile again.
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Rare bone diseases and their dental, oral, craniofacial manifestations
Hereditary diseases affecting the skeleton are heterogeneous in etiology and severity. Though many of these conditions are individually rare, the total number of people affected is great. These disorders often include dental-oral-craniofacial (DOC) manifestations, but the combination of the rarity and lack of in-depth reporting often limit our understanding and ability to diagnose and treat affected individuals.
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What’s Your Excuse?
At Orchard Maple Family Dental, we cannot even tell you how many times we’ve heard people say things like…. “I’ve been meaning to make an appointment but I just haven’t gotten around to it.” With that in mind, here are some of the most frequent excuses people have for not visiting the dentist. [...]
Source: http://www.omfdental.com/blog/2014/excuse/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=excuse
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Countdown to Hinman 2014: Will We See You There?
Yes, I’m really this excited.
Shauna and I are thrilled to attend the 102nd Annual Thomas P. Hinman Dental Meeting in Atlanta, GA next week. Although we’ve opted not to rent a booth this year, I’d like to personally extend an invitation to connect with us and schedule an appointment time. We can discuss the latest and greatest in social media, blogging, and digital marketing for your practice, and we’ll answer your questions about creating a strong online presence that strengthens your relationship with new and existing patients.
By the way, have you checked the Dental Junkie events calendar lately? We’ve added over 70 events from now through the end of 2014, with hundreds more soon to be posted. You’ll find dental conferences, annual sessions, expos, CE opportunities, and workshops from across the country—nay, the world!
It’s nearly impossible to say what I’m most excited about, but these are my top 10 courses and special events picks for the 2014 Hinman meeting:
No. 1: Speakers. So Many Speakers.
Previous years’ speakers have been nothing short of fascinating, and I’m sure the latest crop won’t disappoint. Dr. Anthony Cardoza will be on hand to discuss forensic dentistry, and I’ll be interested to hear from local practitioner Dr. Jimmy Eubank as he shares insights into restorative dentistry and occlusion. Dr. Mark Hyman always has interesting things to say about motivation and team building, and Dr. John Svirsky may very well blow your mind with his discussion of oral pathology. Dr. Svirsky rocks a bowtie like nobody’s business, and it’s obvious from his speaker photo that this is a man who gets very excited about oral pathology.
No. 2: Creating Vision and Value for Patients
In this post, I pointed out that one of our clients’ biggest challenges is marketing to cost-conscious patients at a time when many view preventive care as elective. Imtiaz Manji discusses the power of dentistry to effect positive changes in patients’ lives, both clinically and socially. Manji emphasizes the need to create a unique vision that encompasses their needs as patients, people, and consumers. Course Th303, 3/27/2014, 8am – 11am
No. 3: The Exhibit Hall
I could (and probably will) spend hours perusing the exhibits. The Exhibit Hall features charity events, food, charging stations, vendors, table clinics, and thousands of people who share your passion for all things dental. New this year is the “Dentists Only” session. On March 27, from 9am – 11am, attendance will be limited to dentists only. Plan ahead with the interactive 2014 Exhibit Hall map, which you’ll find here.
No. 4: Health and Wellness Track
Can’t decide on your courses? Opt for a track, which is something of an all-inclusive program comprised of several speakers and workshops. Altogether, you’ll hear from five speakers, each with an hour-long discussion of topics to include oral cancer, patient medication safety, longevity, cardiovascular disease, and the effects of lifestyle on chronic illnesses. Course Sa270, 3/29/2014, 8:30am – 3pm
No. 5: Networking Reception and Panel Discussion With Women Dentists
As a woman, mother, and business owner, I understand the importance of balancing family life and work. Panel members will discuss practice management, career advancement, and what it means to be a woman and a dentist. Course Sa411, 3/29/2014, 12pm – 1:30pm
No. 6: 21st Century Dentures: New Ideas, Techniques, and Technology
Baby Boomers are more knowledgeable about personal oral health than their predecessors, and they’ll no doubt seek out the best treatments and care. Dr. Joseph Massad shares his thoughts on improved impression techniques, occlusal schemes, and jaw relationship recording. Course Sa373, 3/29/2014, 1:30pm – 4:30pm
No. 7: The Fun Way to Proficiency With Digital Dental Photography
Who wouldn’t want the chance to become the Ansel Adams of intraoral photography? Dr. Mark Kleive leads a hands-on workshop for capturing images that improve communication between your team and your patients. Role-playing abounds. Course Sa164, 3/29/2014, 9:30am – 12:30pm
No. 8: Ask and Ye Shall Receive! The Art of Getting to “Yes”
In last week’s post, I touched on the benefits of internal marketing for case acceptance and patient referrals. In this course, Dr. Mark Hyman offers advice on selling services, building strong dental teams, and the critical nature of listening to your patients. Course Sa361, 3/29/2014, 9:30am – 12:30pm
No. 9: Back to the Eighties Auxiliary Reception
Arcade games, live music, a photo booth, and a costume contest? Do tell! Open to hygienists, office staff, lab techs, and assistants, the reception will be held at the Omni Hotel ballroom and features a buffet, dancing, and drawings. Complimentary beer and wine, as well as a cash bar. Bless them, they even offer free shuttle service to nearby hotels. Friday, 3/28/2014, 7pm – 11pm.
No. 10: Messages to Our Military
Not a purely dental affair, but an incredible gesture nonetheless. Stop by Booth #137 in the Exhibit Hall to send an appreciative postcard to American soldiers serving overseas. More than 2,500 attendees participated last year, and I know we can do even better in 2014.
About the author: Jill Nastasia, CEO and Director of Business Development at MDPM Consulting, lives, breathes, and dreams dentistry. From masterminding social media to forging brand identity, she is passionate about her clients’ dental practices and patient experience. She’s also passionate about Flock of Seagulls and has every intention of winning the 80s costume contest.
Source: http://mdpmconsulting.com/2014/03/countdown-to-hinman-2014-will-we-see-you-there/
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Sunday, June 29, 2014
Worrying trend with oral care in children
While oral care remains an important issue, new research from Mintel reveals some worrying gaps in oral hygiene care trends among UK parents.
Source: http://www.dentapress.com/headlines/5950-worrying-trend-with-oral-care-in-children.html
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Anesthesia Makes Oral Surgery a Breeze in Hartsdale
Dr. Paul Patella, Hartsdale Oral-maxillofacial surgeon takes the stress out of oral surgery.
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No One Is Safe From Morning Breath!
 | Morning breath is just a fancy way of saying bad breath. Don’t worry, it’s common – everyone gets it and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Although you cannot stop it from happening, there may be some ways to reduce the odor. In order to minimize bad breath, you have to first understand why it happens. When your are sleeping, the normal flow of saliva decreases. This causes your mouth to dry out, providing the perfect atmosphere for odor-producing bacteria to multiply. Unfortunately, this means that no one is safe from morning breath. Here are a few tips to help fight bad breath:
As simple as these steps may be, many people ignore them resulting in bad breath. The most effective way to combat morning breath is with proper oral hygiene. Remember, morning breath is normal. There is no reason to be embarrassed – everyone gets it! |
The post No One Is Safe From Morning Breath! appeared first on Gentle Dental.
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Dentists' knowledge, confidence tied to care for scleroderma patients
Dentists' confidence in treating patients with scleroderma may be related to their familiarity with the autoimmune disease, results from a survey indicates. Providing education to dentists may improve patient satisfaction and access to care, while simultaneously increasing dentists’ knowledge and comfort.
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No One Is Safe From Morning Breath!
| Morning breath is just a fancy way of saying bad breath. Don’t worry, it’s common – everyone gets it and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Although you cannot stop it from happening, there may be some ways to reduce the odor. In order to minimize bad breath, you have to first understand why it happens. When your are sleeping, the normal flow of saliva decreases. This causes your mouth to dry out, providing the perfect atmosphere for odor-producing bacteria to multiply. Unfortunately, this means that no one is safe from morning breath. Here are a few tips to help fight bad breath:
As simple as these steps may be, many people ignore them resulting in bad breath. The most effective way to combat morning breath is with proper oral hygiene. Remember, morning breath is normal. There is no reason to be embarrassed – everyone gets it! |
The post No One Is Safe From Morning Breath! appeared first on Gentle Dental.
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Draper Family Dentistry Utilizes Social Networking For Improved Communication
Dr. Kevin Draper uses social media to interact with and update patients.
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Saturday, June 28, 2014
Boost those cavities, Ensure more replacement crowns
A recent article in the New York Times cautioned about the sugar content in those nutritional drinks taken by older Canadians. These drinks have the brands such as Boost and Ensure and are...
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Cultivation of the Value Mindset
If you are like most dental office leaders, you have had times when you thought it would be impossible to get your team members on the same page with an idea, system, or...
Source: http://blogohj.oralhealthjournal.com/uncategorized/cultivation-of-the-value-mindset
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25 Questions a Dentist’s Website Must Answer
The Speed Dating Scenario
Imagine a scenario in which you’re “speed dating” for new patients. In a room full of dentists and patients, you have 120 seconds to let each patient know that you are the dentist for him/her. You have two minutes to become the perfect fit and earn a new patient appointment. What would you say? How would you act? What would you wear?
This situation is not far-fetched. In fact, it accurately demonstrates the communication time you will have with potential patients who visit your website.
Questions Web Visitors Ask
How can your website convert visitors to new patients? Consider the questions your website visitors are asking in their minds. Do you know what those questions are? You might guess a few, but probably not all. Some might even surprise you.
Your website should answer the following 25 questions in easy-to-understand, personal, comfortable language that draws the visitor in until, finally, he or she calls your office to book an appointment.
- Who are you?
- Where are you located?
- Are you a real business?
- How big is your business, or how small?
- Are you the right service/product provider for me?
- Why should I trust you?
- What do patients think about you?
- What makes you the best?
- Why do patients like you?
- Does anyone not like you?
- What makes you different from other doctors?
- What does your office look like?
- What do you and your staff look like?
- Will I feel comfortable in your office?
- Is your staff nice or will they make my visit difficult?
- Are you conservative or will you try to sell me things I don’t need?
- Are you good with kids?
- Will I feel good or bad after my appointment?
- What have you done for others like me?
- Why should I choose you?
- Will you really listen to what I say?
- How can I be sure that I won’t be just another case to you?
- Will you file my insurance?
- What do you charge?
- How and when will I need to pay you?
How to Answer the Questions
Who are you? This question should be answered on the homepage. Your logo, practice name, tagline, and images should let visitors know that you’re not only a dentist, but you’re THE dentist who will make their family healthy and happy.
Where are you located? The web is global. While your SEO plan may be local, you might show up in searches hundreds, even thousands, of miles away from your office. Long-tail keywords in blogs could lead a Russian with a toothache to your website. Placing your address, in live text, at the top of your website will accomplish three things. One, it will let visitors know where you’re located. Two, it will tell Google where you’re located, which ties in to local SEO and Google+, and that ultimately ties in to your SEO strategy. Three, hopefully patients who are not in your area (and would never travel to your office) will leave the site quickly so that your traffic data isn’t skewed. If you aren’t a good fit for a potential patient, it’s best for your marketing research and data if that patient leaves your website promptly.
Are you a real business? The Internet has a reputation of connecting consumers with scam artists. Your website must immediately convey that you’re a reputable business and licensed dentist. Having a Google+ Local map will logically validate your business in the minds of consumers, but seeing your face and your office provide an emotional connection to you as a human being. Photos of the dentist, staff, and office are imperative for immediately establishing trust with website visitors.
How big is your business, or how small? Big is not necessarily better, especially when it comes to personalized care. While some patients prefer the technology and convenient evening/weekend appointments offered by large dental offices, others crave the relationship they’ll build with their future dentist. Whatever size your office is, your website should highlight benefits to the patient.
Are you the right service/product provider for me? Your website should make your ideal patient feel as if the entire site caters to his questions and concerns. To accomplish this, even the most experienced marketing professional needs to understand your target patient. What is your ideal case; what does that patient look like, and where does he go, what does he do, who does he talk to? Your website must focus on catering to the ideal patient you describe. In return, the site will appeal to the right type of cases for your practice.
Why should I trust you? This is a biggie. In 2012, a survey by Bray Leino revealed that 88% of people have a very high level of trust in their dentists. Twenty percent believe that their relationship with their dentist is more valuable the relationship with their doctors. Just over two-thirds of respondents base checkup frequency on their dentist’s recommendations. To show potential patients that you are worthy of their trust, include your photo on the homepage of your website. Provide testimonials, along with patient photos. In short, make it personal. Make your website leave an impression that they can trust you.
What do patients think about you? Word of mouth has always been the most economical and rewarding form of advertising, particularly for healthcare providers. Today, people communicate in person, but also online. In fact, a study by Pew Research in 2013 showed that 85% of Americans use the Internet. Only 4% of Americans whose income exceeds $75K per year are offline. The great number of potential patients who may find you online will see not only your website, but also reviews, or testimonials, about your practice. Yahoo, Yelp, Google, HealthGrades, and other public review sites often show up in the top results for “dentist” plus a city. To appear reputable in the eyes of potential patients, you need great reviews on your website and on third-party sites. Part of marketing involves reputation management, so your website needs to 1) make it easy for happy clients to leave reviews on public sites, and 2) link to positive public reviews about your practice.
What makes you the best? Patient testimonials will go a long way toward making you look like the best dentist around, but you must also highlight your accolades. So many times, professionals worry about appearing egotistical, so they don’t publicize their education, awards, and certifications. Don’t fall into this trap of humility. As a dentist, not a person, you are your brand. Your expertise must be highlighted if you’re going to compete with other brands. Don’t be humble. Be marketable!
Why do patients like you? Again, public reviews and testimonials on your own website will show potential patients what your current patients think of your practice. Consider video testimonials, as well. When a consumer can look into the eyes of your patients and see their genuine feelings for you, that’s priceless. Asking patients for written or recorded testimonials may feel awkward at first, but those that truly like you will be honored to tell the public how wonderful you are.
Does anyone not like you? Negative reviews are inevitable. You cannot control what’s published about you on review sites, even if the words are one-sided or completely untrue. In some cases, bad reviews boil down to a case of mistaken identity. Angry patients, and even unethical competitors, can anonymously post negative reviews about you – and potential patients will see these reviews. All you can do is respond publicly as the owner of the business (you can do this beneath the review, in most cases) and submit a request to the publisher that the review be removed. Your website, then, has an even harder job of converting visitors who’ve witnessed negative reviews. This means, you must have a stellar website!
What makes you different from other dentists? Every patient wants to feel unique, but they also want the joy of knowing their dentist is uniquely wonderful. Thin about what you do or have done that, perhaps, other dentists in your area have not. What are your hobbies? Do you volunteer time or go on mission trips to administer dental care? Do you love animals? Show off your personality on your website. People want to connect with the real you, not a white-coat-wearing, sterile robot of a doctor. Be authentic, and if you’re a genuinely nice person, people will like you. If you’re an ass, well, perhaps you shouldn’t be a dentist.
What does your office look like? Photographs are imperative to making a great first impression. Hire a local photographer and/or videographer to capture the best aspects of your office. If you cannot do this before your website is built, then take photos on your smart phone. With Photoshop and InDesign, graphic artists can make nearly any photograph look professional. Photos of your office are equally important as photos of yourself on your website. Do not take pictures of patients in dental chairs. Instead, have your team members pose – standing with an arm draped over the back of the dental chair, or handing the photographer a clipboard from behind the front desk. You need happy, attractive, real people in your photos. To showcase your office, request that an office tour, or photo rotation of office photos, be placed on the homepage of your website. Also integrate office photos on the About page, and insert an exterior photo on the contact page, with the Google+ map to your office.
What do you and your staff look like? Again, photos are key. Dentists often have many questions about staff photos, though. Do you need a group photo? Should you do an all-staff photo or department photos? What if a staff member leaves? Will you take individual photos? How should everyone dress? Indoor or outdoor pictures? How often do you need to take new staff pictures? Must all the staff be on the website? Do you need a professional photographer? A solid marketing company should be able to answer all of your questions an guide you down the best path for your situation.
Will I feel comfortable in your office? Staff, patient testimonials, and an office photo rotation will help website visitors determine whether they might feel comfortable in your office. The words on your website are also an important factor in giving potential patients a warm welcome. Should your site be written in first person, second, or third? How casual or professional should the tone be? What aspects of clinical dentistry need attention, and how much “fluff” is necessary for marketing? You need to find a great dental copywriter who can develop website content that appeals to your target audience – that ideal patient. Don’t rely on your own preferences in this area. The website is not being written for you, a dentist, but for your potential patients, people who know little about dental care and seek an emotional connection.
Is your staff nice or will they make my visit difficult? You can convey the kind nature of your staff in pictures and words. Photos of smiling team members are nice, but videos of happy team members explaining aspects of your dental office are even better. Biographical profiles of team members are nice, but testimonials from patients who mention the awesome work of your staff are even better. Also, include a page on your website to explain what a first visit entails. Help the reader understand what to expect at your office, how much time to a lot for the pre-visit paperwork, and what will be required for payment or insurance processing.
Are you conservative or will you try to sell me things I don’t need? Going back to trust, patients want a dentist they can trust. They need to know that you won’t sell them services they don’t need. People do not want a used car salesman for a dentist. How can you let website visitors know that your intentions are pure? Patient testimonials and your own sentiments about patient care and conservative dentistry can help send the right message.
Are you good with kids? This is really a yes or no. If you don’t like seeing kids, don’t mention children in your marketing – on your website or elsewhere. However, if you cater to families and like treating children, let people know. Add a page just for kids on your website – and a page for parents, too. Blog about children’s dental care, how to brush and floss, and dental development. Your website should let visitors know immediately whether you like seeing children or prefer adult care.
Will I feel good or bad after my appointment? We won’t really know the answer to this question until after the appointment is complete, but potential patients need to believe that you’re going to give them a great experience. You’ll have them in and out in no time, but you’ll spend enough one-on-one time consulting with them to understand all of their needs and concerns. You’ll make the emotional, clinical, and financial aspects of dental care easy, hassle-free, and convenient. Your website should make visitors believe that you are the dentist they can trust – that after their first visit, they’ll want to tell everyone about their wonderful dentist.
What have you done for others like me? A before-and-after gallery can become a great patient education tool and help with case acceptance. You’ll need before and after photos of a minimum of five cases. Be sure to include a headshot and patient testimonial if at all possible. A video testimonial is ideal. Take a few moments to write the patient’s story: why they came to you, what their problems were, and how you corrected the problems. This, in addition to a good library of patient testimonials and/or videos, will show website visitors that you’re not all talk – you’re a great clinician, as well.
Will you really listen to what I say? Telling people that you’ll listen to them does not mean they’ll believe you really will. Focus on patient testimonials and case descriptions in your before-and-after gallery to show website visitors that your current patients were listened to. In addition, your copywriter can develop a tone that makes readers feel that you really care, and that you’ll listen to what they say.
How can I be sure that I won’t be just another case to you? Again, this isn’t something people will believe because you say so. Your website text, photos, and testimonials can send the message that patient individuality is important to you, but promptly answering emails, phone calls, and messages will prove it. Your staff should be trained to make every patient – and every potential patient – feel uniquely important.
Will you file my insurance? Dentists like private pay, and for good reason. However, the average working Joe does not have 5K sitting around to spend on dental care. Yes, dental care is important to overall health. Yes, neglecting dental care could cause serious quality of life and health problems. Still, out-of-pocket cost today is an issue for many people. An experienced copywriter can take the facts about your financing and insurance options and position them in a positive light. Potential patients need to know what to expect, and part of meeting that need involves answering the hard questions about insurance and financing.
What do you charge? Don’t publish your fees. Communicating your service fees to potential patients does not mean that you must publish the actual prices. Instead, let readers know that for the quality service, materials, and care they’ll receive in your office, you charge fair prices. Let them also know that you can discuss financing options or phased treatment plans, if necessary, to make quality dental care fit their budget. Tell them that when it comes to healthcare, cheap alternatives aren’t the best investment. Instead, long-lasting, quality dentistry is the wise, and often less costly, choice.
How and when will I need to pay you? Again with the money? Yes. Money is important, unless you only cater to the independently wealthy. Patients need to understand from the beginning that you will expect payment, either their copay or full payment, at the end of their visit. If you neglect to tell patients this up front, you run the risk of creating disgruntled customers – and that leads to bad online reviews. Don’t take the risk! Set clear expectations of what you need, and listen to their expectations of you. Establish trust on this foundation, and you’ll enjoy the many benefits of long-term patient retention.
Why should I choose you? Everything we’ve touched on to this point should answer this question. You need to be aware that the question exists in the minds of your potential patients. As you develop a website to give people an inside peek at your practice, don’t forget the question that all potential patients are asking: why should I choose you?
Source: http://mdpmconsulting.com/2014/03/25-questions-a-dentists-website-must-answer/
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Get The Smile You’ve Always Wanted!
It’s never too late to perfect your smile. It is more common than ever before to see adults with braces. Not only does it improve your oral health, but it can boost your self-confidence. A beautiful smile also changes how you are viewed by others. Studies have shown that a person with a great smile is perceived to be more trustworthy and successful.
Braces have come a long way in the past 15 years. The traditional metal brackets are now made smaller for comfort and no longer have to wrap around the teeth making it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene. Clear porcelain brackets are also available to help minimize the appearance of braces. Another clear alternative to straightening your teeth is with InvisalignTM, which is popular with adults. Instead of traditional metal braces, custom-made clear plastic trays are used to gradually shift your teeth giving you the smile you have always dreamed of.
Deciding to straighten your teeth is a big decision. Gentle Dental makes it easy by offering first-time patients a free orthodontic consultation and affordable financing without a credit check. Let Gentle Dental help you achieve the stunning smile you deserve. For more information, visit GentleDentalGroup.com or call toll free 877-343-3253 to schedule your free orthodontic consultation today!
The post Get The Smile You’ve Always Wanted! appeared first on Gentle Dental.
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Hayward Dentist Gary G. Fong Launches New Website
Gary G. Fong, DDS is proud to announce the launch of its new website.
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Nutrition is key to oral, overall health
Nutrition is vital to a person’s oral health — and therefore to their overall health. Collaboration between registered dietitian nutritionists, dietetic technicians, registered and oral health-care professionals is recommended for health promotion, disease...
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Friday, June 27, 2014
Green Beer, Green Teeth?
On St. Patrick’s Day, everyone is welcomed into the Irish culture! It has become a tradition in Irish pubs to serve up frosty mugs of green beer in celebration of this day. Before deciding to raise your glass and drink this fun (and delicious!) beverage, consider the effect the green dye may have on your teeth. Food coloring is typically harmless; however it is likely to stain your pearly whites by attaching to the plaque and tartar build up on your teeth.
Recently whitened teeth are more susceptible to food coloring seeping into the dentin layer, which may result in a greenish tint and negates the whitening, as bleaching exposes the pores in the enamel.
If you decide to indulge in a “lucky” beer, here are a few tips to help steer clear of “Leprechaun” teeth:
•Drink through a straw to avoid direct contact with the teeth.
•At the end of the night, chew a piece of sugar-free gum. This will increase your saliva and wash away some of the dye. The gum itself will absorb dye as well.
•Most importantly, brush your teeth and use mouthwash before going to bed.
Gentle Dental wishes you a safe and fun St. Patrick’s Day!
The post Green Beer, Green Teeth? appeared first on Gentle Dental.
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An Analysis of Patient Communication Software for Dentists
Some professionals estimate the cost of acquiring a new patient at $200, on the low end, based on marketing expenses divided by new patient numbers. The cost of retaining a patient is estimated at six times less than marketing for new patients. So, a dental practice saves money by retaining patients.
Recall, the term used to describe patients returning for six-month checkups, has long been a critical factor in dental practice profitability. However, six months is a long time. Your patients pass countless dental practices while driving, over the course of six months. In half a year, your patients hear commercials for dental offices, receive direct mail from dental offices, and are referred to other dentists by friends and family. According to the Direct Mail Association, each of your patient’s value diminishes by 10 percent a month. If you neglect contacting a patient for 10 months, that “current” patient is actually a lost patient. There’s little chance he or she will return to your office.
What’s the best way to remain in contact with current patients?
Traditionally, sending appointment recall mailers and following up with a phone call has been the standard recall protocol. This method is still effective. However, today we are inundated with junk mail, so your recall postcard or letter may go the way of the recycle bin before it’s even read. Most people read emails, when those emails come from people and companies they know. So, you can eliminate the expense of creating, printing, addressing, and mailing recall cards by implementing modern patient communication software.
What is patient communication software?
Often provided as a supplemental service by electronic records companies, patient communication software replaces direct mail and can replace telephone reminders regarding recall visits. Most products allow for: appointment scheduling from website, email or text reminders about appointments, e-newsletter capability, thank you emails with surveys, and they meet the standards for email communication legality. From a main dashboard, you upload your patient email list and set up the verbiage and images you want in your emails to patients. In most cases, patient communication software provides data on email receipt, opens, click throughs, bounces, unsubscribes, and new subscribers, as well.
What’s important when choosing patient communication software?
If you’re working with a company that provides electronic patient records, ask if patient communication software is available. You might be pleasantly surprised to learn that the software is available with your current account. Whether you explore patient communication with a company you know or use a service that’s new to your office, consider these factors prior to making your decision.
- Ease of use: You or someone in your office will have to manage the software. The portal or admin panel from which management will occur should be user friendly. Request a tour of the admin panel prior to committing to a patient communication product.
- Technical support: Inevitably, you will need technical support. Ask for the tech support number, and call it yourself. Who answers? Does he/she seem friendly and helpful? Was it a receptionist or answering machine? You need to know that support will be there when you need it.
- eMail list maintenance: Most companies will manage your email list, based on patient files (the records portion of their service). However, can you manually add and delete emails from your list? Are you required to input emails upon commencement of the program, and if so, what’s the process? What format must your patient emails be in for easy upload?
- Integration with website: Because your dental website is a hub for patients, team members, and marketing, some patient communication companies offer widgets – snippets of code – that facilitate online appointment scheduling, a feed of patient testimonials, and newsletter subscription.
- 5. Templates provided: Will stock content be made available for email blasts, thank yous, surveys, reminders, and newsletters, or will you need to provide verbiage for all of these templates? Can you upload your logo and photos to the emails, as well? You might need to work with a professional dental copywriter if stock content is unavailable.
Which companies offer patient communication software?
Google shows these companies as the top results for patient communication software.
- Demandforce – www.demandforce.com
- Solutionreach (formerly Smile Reminder) – www.solutionreach.com
- Lighthouse 360 – www.lh360.com
A Review of Demandforce
ABOUT DEMANDFORCE: Purchased by Intuit in 2012, Demandforce serves all businesses, not just dentists and the medical industry. On the Demandforce website, under Communication, we’re told that their product manages all email and text communications with customers, or patients in the case of dentists. The company offers software to address social media, patient referrals, appointment reminders and confirmations, surveys, postcards, and provides website widgets. Also note that Demandforce used to have a contract with Google so that Demandforce reviews showed up with Google reviews. The contract ended in July 2011.
CUSTOMER SERVICE: At the time this article was written, Demandforce was not rated by the Better Business Bureau. Online reviews are varied; some claim that the company has stellar customer service, while others say the service is poor.
FEES: According to comments posted online, Demandforce’s fees are in the $300-400 a month range. The company appears to have a 30-60 day free trial, with no strings. At the end of the trial, you will either leave or sign a contract that may come with annual auto renewal.
A Review of Solutionreach
ABOUT SOUTIONREACH: Formerly Smile Reminder, Solution Reach offers patient communication software for medical, vision, and dental practices. Services include: multilingual patient messaging for recare, recall, reminders, birthdays, holidays, and marketing campaigns; electronic bill pay, e-newsletter with stock content you can select from a library, patient education videos, EHR integration, patient surveys and reviews, refer-a-friend program, appointment scheduling, social media integration, wait list management, and much more. In 2013, Solutionreach announced PatientReach, an innovative tablet-based solution for patient registration.
CUSTOMER SERVICE: Dental practices and patients will have access to an online portal. Solutionreach cites training and support as part of their service. The company engaged in a customer service satisfaction survey and posted the score of 9 out of 10. Testimonials on the website tout the awesomeness of customer service reps, as well. Positive feedback is also on public forums, such as this one, which focuses on optical practices.
FEES: Though prices are not published, Solutionreach promises to keep customers at their original fee structure forever – no increases. In addition, all software updates and improvements are offered to all customers, regardless of their fee structure.
A Review of Lighthouse 360
ABOUT LIGHTHOUSE 360: Lighthouse was established in 2002. The three company owners also established Practice Works, a practice management software. Focused solely on dentists, the software as a service (SaaS) patient communication product, Lighthouse 360, was created in 2006. In 2013, Yodle, a well-known small business marketing company, purchased Lighthouse 360. Product features include: AutoConfirm™ appointment confirmations, PerfectRecall™ patient recall emails, RateADentist.com patient review management, reviews posted to major review sites, surveys, data synchs every 10 minutes, email, daily reports, mobile portal, 2-way text messages, Facebook tools, and for an additional monthly fee, optional automated phone calls, postcards, letters, e-newsletters with content, and patient reactivation system.
CUSTOMER SERVICE: Dentists seem to have few complaints with Lighthouse’s customer service, from the information posted online. DentalProuctShopper.com published the results of a survey to 14 Lighthouse customers. The overall score was 4.9 of 5 – which is excellent. DentalProductsReport.com also published an article by Dr. Leonard Tau of Philadelphia, titled “Lighthouse 360 takes a practice to the next level.” In it, Dr. Tau praises Lighthouse and claims that the name of the program “should be set it and forget it” because it “does everything for you.” If this is true, customer service would rarely be needed anyway.
FEES: Lighthouse 360 does not require a contract. Prices are published on the company’s website. Set up fee is $299, and monthly fee is $299.
Pay for What You’ll Use
When a dentist begins the process of comparing patient communication software companies, he or she can become caught up in the competitive marketing blah-blah-blah. Stay focused. Before making those calls, write down the services your practice needs. Review the services of Demandforce, Solutionreach, and Lighthouse 360. Which will you and your staff use? Which will you not use? Don’t pay for products that your office won’t use. Unless you’re personally managing patient communication, you’ll need the buy-in of your front office team. There are many online comments about the difficulty of getting out of a contract with patient communication software companies. Be careful, be wise, and do your homework before signing on the dotted line.
About the Author: Shauna Duty, co-owner of MDPM Consulting believes in consumer education. While her company does not offer patient communication software, it does design, create, and manage websites for dentists. Often, patient communication software and review feeds are integrated with dental websites via widgets, so Shauna has fielded many questions about these products. If you have questions for Shauna or would like to discuss dental marketing, email info@moderndentalmarketing.com or call 972-781-8861. Visit MDPMConsulting online at www.mdpmconsulting.com.
Source: http://mdpmconsulting.com/2014/03/an-analysis-of-patient-communication-software-for-dentists/
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Thursday, June 26, 2014
60 Photos of Teenagers with Braces
Many teenagers wonder what they'll look like with braces, and what colors of rubber bands will look best with their hair color and facial tone. Judging by the comments on this article about braces colors, I decided it would be a good idea to create a post with dozens of pictures of teenagers with braces so you can get a general idea of how you'll look with braces.
As you take a look at the pictures below, you may notice that some people look confident with braces, and some people don't. If you try to smile and look proud of your braces, people will see you as more confident, and you'll likely enjoy having braces more. It all comes down to attitude.
Hopefully there's someone here that looks similar to you!
60 Photos of Teenagers with Braces
#1
This blond young woman appears confident as she smiles, showing off a pink powerchain on her upper braces.
#2
This young man appears confident even though he wears glasses and his braces pop right out at you. Even with the braces and glasses, he proudly shows off blue and orange colored bands around his braces.
#3
This blond-haired, blue-eyed young woman smiles, showing off gray and green colored bands around her braces.
#4
This blond-haired, blue-eyed young woman sports silver-colored elastic bands around her braces.
#5
This brown-haired, blue-eyed young man is sporting blue and green colored elastics on his braces.
#6
This young woman is proudly smiling, showing her blue elastics on her upper braces.
#7
This young woman is rocking a few different shades of blue elastics on her braces: light green, teal, and blue.
#8
This blond-haired, blue-eyed young woman is smiling, displaying her upper and lower braces with black and pink-colored elastics.
#9
This young man is smiling enough that we can see his red elastic bands on his upper braces.
#10
This young woman is smiling big enough to show off her upper and lower braces with pink elastics.
#11
This young woman probably needs to work on her smiling skills! She's displaying pink and green colored elastics alternating on the top teeth with green bands on the lower four front teeth with pink bands next to them.
#12
This young man smiles, showing off blue-colored elastic bands on his braces.
#13
This young woman looks pretty happy with the world, showing off pink and green colored elastics.
#14
This young woman smiles revealing a silver powerchain that links the braces on her upper teeth.
#15
This young man isn't afraid to prove to the world that pink isn't just for girls.
#16
This young woman is seen sporting a popular choice for braces colors: pink and green.
#17
This young woman also thinks highly of the colors green and pink.
#18
This young man has chosen blue and green for his elastics.
#19
This young lady has chosen silver elastic bands that match the silver color of her braces.
#20
This young man displays a blue powerchain on his braces. He can't contain his large smile as he listens to an audio version of OralAnswers.com.
#21
This blond lifeguard rocks a pink powerchain.
#22
This young woman chose white elastics to help hide the silver color of her braces. Although white bands can be a good choice for some, many teenagers with braces find that they make their teeth look more yellow.
#23
This young man confidently smiles, unafraid to show the world that he has braces.
#24
This young woman has ceramic brackets, which don't stand out quite as much as the silver brackets.
#25
This young man isn't trying to hide the fact that he wears braces. His strategy seems to have garnered the interest of at least one woman.
#26
This fashionable young woman probably enjoys the bling her braces add to her outfits...and it looks like she can't stop looking at the attractive fellow in photo #25!
#27
This young woman confidently displays her braces for the world to see.
#28
This young man's confidence goes a long way at convincing the viewer that he is comfortable with his braces.
#29
This young lady's mouth just needs some Christmas lights to be all ready for the holidays.
#30
This young brunette displays her top-notch oral hygiene skills by using an interdental cleaner to help keep her pearly whites healthy.
#31
This young man is having a fabulous hair day as he shows off his ceramic braces which are designed to hide the fact that the person has braces.
#32
This confident young woman shows off her braces.
#33
This young woman probably wouldn't be smiling so big if she knew she lost her braces wire.
#34
This young man confidently smiles, letting the world know that he's proud of his braces.
#34
This red-haired, blue-eyed young woman sports her Damon braces with confidence.
#35
This brown-haired young woman shows off her braces with purple-colored elastics.
#36
This young man proudly sports some light-green colored bands and a thin mustache.
#37
This dark-brown-haired young woman proudly shows off her braces.
#38
This young woman shows us through her big smile that it is possible to maintain beautiful teeth even while wearing braces.
#39
This young woman is trying to make her teeth appear whiter by going with an off-white elastic band.
#40
This teenage young lady shows that you can still look good during the initial phase of braces while your teeth are still crooked.
#41
This young lady shows off a sweet, innocent smile with her braces.
#42
This young woman shows off her Damon braces with a confident smile.
#43
This teenage girl recently had her braces put on. If we give her a few months, she'll soon move from a half-smile to a full, confident smile.
#44
This young man is trying to distract from his braces with some facial hair.
#45
This young woman cleverly distracts the viewer from her braces to her eyes. One way to take the emphasis off of your braces is to guide the attention away from your mouth to other features. She does this with her eye shadow and her large earrings.
#46
This young woman's braces are barely noticeable. You can ask your orthodontist about more aesthetic options such as ceramic braces and lighter-colored wires.
#47
This teenage girl just got her braces, and is still getting used to smiling with them.
#48
This young man proudly shows off his gray and green colored elastic bands for his braces.
#49
This young woman displays a confident smile with her braces.
#50
These teenage girls are having fun swimming. It's important to remember that braces don't define who you are,!l Life continues to go on and you can participate in the same activities you did before you had braces.
#51 and #52
You can see the same teenager in the above and below photos. Notice how the different smile totally changes the appearance of her whole face. After you get braces, practice smiling and speaking in front of a mirror, as the braces will make your mouth feel different.
#53
This young man can confidently laugh at a joke. Don't be afraid to let people know you have braces, because they will probably notice even if you try to hide it.
#54
This young woman has consulted with her orthodontist about aesthetic optiosn to help disguise braces.
#55
This teenage girl has taken some of the focus off of her braces by wearing glasses that stand out with purple frames.
#56
This young lady is still working on getting her smile right with braces, as she's scrunching up her nose a little bit, causing more of her upper gums to show.
#57
This teenage boy proudly waves, desperate to show off his braces to anyone who will look.
#58
This teenage girl takes some of the focus off of her braces with some green eye shadow.
#59
This young blond-haired teenager proudly displays her braces with confidence.
#60
This young woman disguises her braces with a white powerchain.
Be Confident
Hopefully this sampling of photos of teenagers with braces has helped you see how you might look with braces.
One of the most important takeaways is to simply be confident with braces. They are temporary - they won't define who you are. You might as well be confident while you have them.
If you have any questions about braces, feel free to leave them in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!
Photos © Bigstock and ShutterstockSource: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/OralAnswers/~3/YOR-tPePmoI/
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