In today’s digital landscape, an active and engaging social media presence is essential for orthodontic practices. It’s no longer just about having straight teeth or advanced treatment options—patients are looking for a practice that feels welcoming, relatable, and in tune with their community.
A well-executed social media strategy can set your practice apart from competitors and create meaningful connections with potential patients. Below are some key strategies your orthodontic practice can implement to boost your social media presence and foster a more engaging online community.
1. Produce More Content
Many practices feel that everything they post needs to be “perfect,” but the opposite is often true. Followers appreciate behind-the-scenes moments and unedited, authentic content. In a world full of filters, ads, and AI, there’s a strong desire for content that feels real.
2. Engage with Your Audience
Don’t just post and wait for interactions—actively engage! Designate a team member to spend 10 minutes a day liking, commenting, and interacting with followers. Engage with posts from referring dentists, share exciting updates in your stories, and make it a habit to interact with your community.
2. Follow Local School and Community Accounts
Follow as many local schools, athletic teams, and community clubs as possible. Their most common followers are parents, and seeing your practice consistently supporting and engaging with these accounts provides valuable, free advertising.
3. Highlight Local Connections
If one of your patients is part of a local sports team that achieves something notable, such as winning a championship, share it! Take a photo with the patient and doctor, and tag the school or team. This increases the chance that your post will be reshared by the school, broadening your exposure.
4. Faces = Engagement
Data consistently shows that posts featuring people receive more engagement. If you’re announcing holiday closures, for example, rather than using a graphic, share a photo of the doctor with their family in festive attire. Personal, relatable images always perform better.
5. Video is King
Videos don’t need to be highly produced. Quick, simple videos shot on an iPhone can make a big impact. Share a fun story about staff matching shoes, or a quick video about the team’s favorite color bands that month. Practices don’t need to do TikTok dances to be effective—short, casual videos about the day-to-day can be just as successful.
6. Share a Variety of Content
Create a mix of:
- Educational content (tips for caring for braces or aligners)
- Debond days
- Behind-the-scenes videos
- Staff highlights
- Local community events
- Support for other local businesses
7. Build a Content Calendar
Posting daily can be challenging, so creating a content calendar is a great way to stay consistent. Pre-scheduling posts can also ensure your social media remains active, even on busy days.
Data shows that if a patient hasn’t been referred by a friend, family member, or dentist, they’ll typically review 2-3 practices online before making a decision. They’ll look at your website, Google Business Profile, and social media. Prospective patients know they can get straight teeth anywhere—they choose practices based on price, location, and a culture that feels inviting, professional, and fun. Your social media presence is often their first impression of your practice.
Incorporating these strategies into your practice’s social media efforts can not only enhance your visibility but also build a stronger connection with your community. If your team needs expert guidance, our digital marketing agency is here to help you develop a personalized and effective social media strategy that aligns with your goals and keeps your practice top-of-mind for current and potential patients alike. Let’s work together to make your social media a reflection of the exceptional care you provide!
