Set yourself apart from other practices with these practical tips. 

Running and growing a dental practice can be a complex challenge that leaves many dentists without a clear idea of where to start. One way to simplify this task is to look at your practice from the perspective of value. 

What value do you offer to your patients, and how do you increase that value? What are your patients looking for in a valuable dental practice? Focusing on these key areas can provide your practice with a solid foundation for success.

1. Define the unique value your practice offers.

While providing dental treatment brings its own unique challenges, in many ways, a dental practice is no different than any other business. Your patients visit your practice because you have something to offer—but what do you offer that another dental practice does not?

Gaining an understanding of your unique value is the first step in developing more value. For example, does your practice provide exceptionally friendly service and a calm atmosphere? Do you feature the latest methods and technology? Do you provide comprehensive treatments under one roof? 

Identify the areas that really distinguish your practice from your competitors.

2. Ensure your office culture and marketing reflect that value.

Once you’ve determined what your key value points are, you need to make sure that your actions and the presentation of your practice to the public reflect those points. Everyone on your staff should be on the same page so that all aspects of your service can extend the same look and feel.

Your marketing, whether conventional or online, should also highlight these value points. There are many different channels through which a practice can implement effective marketing, and maintaining the same focus throughout ensures that your value is communicated consistently and effectively.

3. Focus on what really matters to your patients.

When you’re considering the value that your practice provides, it’s also essential to find out what aspects your patients consider important. Implementing changes without insight into what matters to your customers can be ineffective at best and disastrous at worst.

Looking at your value from the perspective of a practitioner can skew your views. Ensuring that there are ample opportunities for customer feedback can help alleviate this bias. It’s best to get this information directly from your patients, whether in-person or through online or physical feedback forms.

4. Develop excellent communication skills.

Communication is one of the most important aspects of running a dental practice. It’s also one of the most highly valued criteria among patients when choosing a dentist. Developing the communication skills of both you and your staff can have a considerable impact.

Aim for an open and honest tone that conveys both warmth and professionalism.

5. Stay up-to-date on technology and training.

Much of the value that you provide for your patients comes directly from the treatments you provide. Continuously improving the technology and training of your practice can ensure that your patients have the best experiences and outcomes during treatment.

Determining the right time to upgrade equipment can be a challenge, as technology in the field is always progressing. However, an investment in training, such as taking orthodontic courses, is always capable of providing immediate and lasting benefits.

6. Enhance your offerings with advanced training.

There are many different types of training that dentists and their staff can pursue to add more value. Some types of training seek to maintain or amend skills, while comprehensive training courses can allow your practice to offer entirely new treatment options.

Orthodontic courses from the American Orthodontic Society are an example of advanced training that can grow your practice. Dentists who take orthodontic courses are able to provide a range of orthodontic treatments at their own offices. 

This provides a more comprehensive care experience for patients, which is something most patients value highly.

7. Demonstrate your value with professional credentials and affiliations.

Demonstrating your value to patients can be done effectively through the professional credentials and affiliations your practice has accrued. Of course, you’ll want to communicate any advanced training that you and your staff have received by listing them on your website or displaying the certificates in your practice.

Joining certain professional associations can also improve patients’ confidence in your practice. The American Orthodontic Society is highly respected throughout the country, and joining can show your patients that you take your career seriously. 

You’ll also receive access to an extensive range of resources, networking opportunities, and discounts on supplies, services, and continuing education courses.

Orthodontic Courses from the American Orthodontic Society

Investing in orthodontic courses can greatly increase the value that your practice has to offer. The American Orthodontic Society has many course options, including both online and onsite learning. You can browse our courses to find out more about how continuing education in orthodontics can improve your practice.