The Bucktooth Collective

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Before a single word is spoken… before insurance is checked or a hygienist is scheduled… a decision is made.

Your next patient already “met” you — on social media. And in those 15 seconds, they either clicked “follow” or kept scrolling to the next practice.

Welcome to the New Waiting Room

Today’s patients do their research backward. Instead of finding your website first, they often start with Instagram, TikTok, or Google Maps photos. They scroll, they judge, and they filter—just like they would for restaurants or hotels.

Your social media presence isn’t just a branding tool. It’s your first interaction. Your digital handshake.

“Would I feel comfortable here?”
“Do they seem modern and friendly?”
“Does this doctor get results I can trust?”

If your profile doesn’t answer those questions instantly… you’re out.

Look Around: You vs. the Dentist Down the Street

Let’s be blunt. The practice with the better online persona will win—even if your clinical skills are superior.

• A nearby dentist posts clear, confident Invisalign cases with before/after carousels.
  

• You haven’t updated your Facebook banner since 2019.
  

  One looks engaged and trustworthy. The other looks… outdated. And trust is currency.

Think Beyond Pretty Pictures

This isn’t about being “on trend” or having perfect headshots. It’s about being human and visible where patients are already spending time.

The goal is connection before contact. When someone feels they know you before they ever call—everything changes:

• They’re more likely to book.
  

• They’re less price-sensitive.
  
  They refer you, not just “a dentist.”

  

Challenge Yourself:

Open your Instagram or Facebook practice page. Imagine you’re a prospective patient.

Ask yourself:

• Do I know what this practice stands for?
  

• Would I trust this team with my health?
  

• Would I feel welcome here?
  
  If you’re unsure, it’s time to upgrade your digital front door.

Is your practice’s social media making the right first impression?

Use this checklist to evaluate your Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok presence as if you were a potential new patient seeing it for the first time.

1. First Impressions (Your “Digital Curb Appeal”)

• Profile picture is professional, friendly, and clearly dental-related

• Bio clearly states what you do, who you help, and where you’re located

• Contact info is easy to find (phone, website, address)

• Most recent post is less than 7 days old

• Branding (colors, tone, vibe) is consistent across posts

2. Content That Builds Trust

• Includes photos or videos of the actual doctor and team

• Shows patient results (before/after or progress) with permission

• Highlights services you want to grow (Invisalign, implants, cosmetics)

• Mixes professional content with human moments (celebrations, laughs, stories)

• Captions are warm, clear, and free of jargon

3. Engagement and Community

• You reply to patient comments and DMs

• You use polls, questions, or comments to invite interaction

• You share or tag community involvement (schools, events, charities)

• You follow and engage with other local businesses/accounts

4. Your Signature Voice

• Your posts reflect your personality and values

• You occasionally share your thoughts as a doctor (tips, opinions, myths)

• You use consistent language or themes (fun, educational, reassuring, etc.)

Scoring:

• 14–17: Strong online presence. You’re creating connection before contact.

• 10-13: Solid foundation. With a few upgrades, you’ll stand out even more.

• Below 10: Time to refresh. You’re likely being overlooked by ideal patients.

Want more growth tips? Click below to check out our website!

UNTIL NEXT TIME
—-The Bucktooth Team

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