How To Help Motivate Your Patients To Care For Their Teeth

Getting your patients motivated and excited about caring for their oral health can be a challenge. If you’re not able to help your patients understand the importance of brushing and flossing each day, chances are you’ll have an even more difficult time scheduling them for checkups every 6 months.

Because of this, it’s important that you and your office and hygiene staff understand the importance of helping patients learn more about how and why to properly care for their dental health.

Motivating Your Patients To Floss & Brush

Below are 3 easy ways you can help teach your patients the importance of keeping a clean and healthy mouth:

1. Talk about the dangers of tooth decay and dental cavities – Tell your patients about the dangers of neglecting their oral health or, better yet, provide visual aids. Talking about (and seeing) tooth decay, dental cavities, gum disease, and tooth infections can be enough to motivate your patients into taking better care of their mouths. Don’t be afraid to mention the costly treatment plans either, as finances can be another motivator.
2. Offer dental favors if you don’t already – If you don’t already offer favors to your patients when they come in for a dental exam, we suggest doing so. Include travel-sized oral hygiene products such as floss, toothpaste, mouthwash, and even a new toothbrush. If your patients have the tools, they’ll be more likely to use them.
3. Educate them about the benefits of a healthy mouth – Make sure you train your staff on how to properly talk to patients about the benefit of a good oral hygiene routine, especially flossing. Most of your patients likely already brush their teeth, but a good number of them probably forget to floss, which is a crucial step. Education is the best way to help your patients understand the need for oral hygiene and dental exams.

The ability to provide your patients with the best possible dental care as well as a better understanding of their oral health will improve patient loyalty and retention. If you’d like to learn more about how to draw new patients to your practice, please contact Pro Dental Designs. We can help you customize a marketing plan that’s right for you and your practice.