10 Ways to Improve Your Dental Patients’ Online Experience

Ensure your website delivers an exceptional online experience that draws in new patients and retains their loyalty.

Print & Go GuidanceSponsored Article by RAMP.  Schedule your free marketing consultation today!

It’s no secret that most people use the internet when seeking out a specific new business, but did you know that only 2% of those searches convert to a purchase or appointment on the first visit? It typically takes two to four more visits before making a decision.

Marketing tools like website retargeting can help boost those conversions, but it’s also important that your dental practice website offers a positive online experience for potential new patients. Here are ten keys to ensuring those first-time visitors keep coming back:

1. Mobile-Friendly Website | Is your website optimized for mobile devices, providing a seamless browsing experience? With more than 7 billion smartphone users worldwide (and climbing), the importance of a responsive design and easy navigation is paramount for encouraging patients to explore your site further.

2. Clear Call-to-Action (CTA) | Be sure to implement prominent and strategically placed CTAs throughout your dental practice website, guiding visitors to book appointments, request consultations, or explore specific services. This will improve user experience and encourage conversions.

3. Streamlined Online Booking System | Integrate a user-friendly online booking system that allows patients to schedule appointments effortlessly. Consider upgrading the process with intuitive forms, real-time availability, and automated reminders to improve convenience and reduce potential drop-offs.

4. Local SEO Optimization | Implement local search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to enhance your visibility within your geographical area. Optimize your website with relevant keywords, include location-specific content, and ensure consistent business information across all online directories and platforms.

5. Engaging and Educational Content | Produce high-quality, informative content such as blog articles, videos, infographics, and professional photography. Focus on oral health tips, treatment options, and frequently asked questions. This will educate patients and improve SEO by driving organic traffic to your website.

6. Social Media Presence | Establish an active presence on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Share entertaining and educational content, patient testimonials, before-and-after pictures, and interactive polls to foster a sense of community and encourage patient engagement.

7. Online Reviews and Testimonials | Research shows that at least 93% of people searching for goods or services will use platforms like Google, Yelp, 1-800-Dentist, and Healthgrades. By encouraging your satisfied patients to leave positive reviews and testimonials on these sites, you’ll boost your online reputation and improve SEO with user-generated content.

8. Live Chat Support | Incorporate a live chat feature on your website to provide real-time assistance to potential patients. This feature enhances user experience, allows for quick responses to queries, and can help convert website visitors into actual patients.

9. Video Consultations | The necessity of teledentistry and video communication during the pandemic proved the value of these services. Consider offering virtual consultations for patients who prefer initial assessments from the comfort of their homes. If you haven't already, implement a secure video conferencing platform and promote this service on your website to cater to patient's evolving needs.

10. Patient Portal and Email Communication | Create a patient portal that offers personalized access to dental records, treatment plans, and online payment options. Additionally, implement a dental office newsletter subscription to communicate oral health tips, new services or products, promotions, and more.

Be sure your website provides the kind of online experience that keeps new patients coming back. At RAMP—The Dentist’s Marketing Company, we offer a variety of cutting-edge marketing tools to leverage visitors into success. 

About RAMP: Our mission is simple - we're here to make you look good. Founded and led by a dentist, we specialize in building and growing dental practices through intelligent, cost-effective marketing campaigns. Founded in 2001, we've helped thousands of success-minded dentists achieve their growth goals over the last 20+ years. Whether it's digital marketing or traditional, website design or social media management, we've done it all. Contact us today for a free consultation to review your current marketing efforts and discuss ways that the right marketing mix can make your money go further. Contact RAMP today to schedule your free strategy session, or call 800-620-7267.

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