8 Dental Practice Green Flags

As Jessica mentioned in our latest article, most people aren’t thinking about the dentist very often. (You and I might be the exceptions. 😉) Even if the average person is religious about routine hygiene, that’s just two touch points per year — and I’d argue that makes it even more important for those visits to be good experiences.

I know, I know. I’m preaching to the choir! But I thought you might like to know what makes a stand-out dental experience according to a team that interacts with dentists every single day.

1. Friendly Service

Warm welcomes and bedside manners are big for our team! Friendliness extends to customer service and clear communication about visit details, treatments, and next steps.

“I think a friendly face and clear communication is huge! It makes a big difference when they actually acknowledge you as a person instead of just a patient they need to check off their list.” —Katie M.

“A warm welcome from the front desk staff really helps sets the tone for the entire visit.” —Randy N.

“I am the most anxious person, so when going to an appointment, being able to feel their kindness, patience, and attentiveness, that changes the whole experience and makes a hugeee difference for me.” —Justynne P.

2. Online Activity

Speaking of outdated websites, a dental practice’s online footprint is one of the most important and impactful decision-makers in this day and age. Users are looking for things to give them a real idea of what it’s like at your practice, which is what makes authentic photography, an updated Google Business Profile, and an active social media presence so important.

🚩 ”NO ACTIVE SOCIAL PRESENCE. Or only posting AI slop.” —Katie C.

3. Hospitable Details

For me, hospitality in a dental office is all about the details that make me feel thought of before I even arrive. Little things like something interesting to look at while I’m getting my teeth cleaned instead of a blank white ceiling.

Another example is when the bathroom has complimentary toothbrushes, toothpaste, and mouthwash. I know in my heart that my hygienist has probably seen everything under the sun, but being able to freshen my breath before I get in the chair makes me feel much less self-conscious!

4. Five-Star Reviews

What kind of marketing company would we be if we didn’t mention reviews?! Google reviews are the most important, but Facebook and other major listings sites like Yelp are also invaluable proof of how you made others feel.

“For me, online reviews from other patients are super important — especially if they mention how the doctor walks you through what they’re seeing and gives you options.” —Fulvia G.

“Good and consistent reviews are a green flag. I like to see people notice and call out the same things.” —Elyse T.

“Good reviews, and they respond to reviews in a professional manner.” —Tanya Y.

5. Modern Solutions

My least favorite part of a hygiene appointment is when they get out the sharp metal pick. I love when there’s a different option, like the water tool (ultrasonic scaler) that means less scraping to get a good clean. When practices make careful selections about new technology, patients know their comfort matters.

🚩 “My red flag would be going to their website, and both it and the practice look 100 years old and outdated.” —Justynne P.

6. No Judgement

Confession: I have pretty good genes when it comes to my teeth and was in the no-cavity club well into adulthood. But I also never miss a 6-month cleaning. A few years ago, I had an experience with a grumpy hygienist who made me feel like I was wasting her time. I didn’t know someone could make me feel judged for having clean teeth! The best dental teams have a strong intuition about how they make people feel. Withholding judgment or personal comments (until you get to know someone really well) helps patients trust they are in a safe space.

7. Proof of Excellence

I’ve met a dentist or two who felt strange about “showing off,” but flaunting your skills can be a good thing! Including credentials, special training, and good reviews on your website — and sharing work you’re proud of — can draw your ideal patients to you. We’ve learned from experience that the more intentional you can be about developing a quality “Smile Portfolio,” or before & after gallery, the better. Don’t be shy about asking those patients to model their new smiles for you!

“Having before and afters that are impressive is a green flag. Before and afters on social as well, so I can see the work and the frequency in which they are doing good work.” —Elyse T.

“Having grown up around dentistry, I also pay attention to things like thorough cleanings, reviewing X-rays, and perio charting.” —Lizzie R.

“A green flag is when the hygienist actually gives me a bib before doing any dental cleaning and doesn't constantly spray me in the face with the water thing (this is a current problem and I do need to look for a new dentist 😅)” —Tanya Y.

8. Active Listening

It really can’t be overstated: When any healthcare provider actually hears me, responds with compassion, and remembers my story it’s the biggest, best green flag. Sometimes it can make a real difference in how I go about the rest of my day, and even have a ripple effect into other parts of my life.

On the other side of that, it’s really obvious when they don’t listen.

It’s a red flag when a dentist pushes a treatment without really listening to my concerns or walking me through other options. I appreciate a dentist who respects my preferences and takes a more conservative approach when possible! —Lizzie R.

“Reddest flag ever was ignoring me when I said something was hurting and the anesthesia didn't seem to be working.” —Soleil P.

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One thing that always gives me confidence in the work we’re doing at Studio 8E8 is that the vast majority of our clients are doing these things already. We work with dentists who truly care about helping people, making a good first impression, and building empowering relationships. If you read through this and felt like we’re stating the obvious, take a moment to congratulate yourself! And if this reminded you to refocus on an area of growth, best of luck — you’ve got this.

If you want to know more about working with Studio 8E8 and having a team to support you in all your marketing efforts, click that button below to schedule a discovery call!

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