Hygiene Visits Down?

I recently started following the Henry Schein blog- these are a couple of their posts- they have some good information-Click on the following link to follow Henry Schein on facebook

Have your patients moved dental care from a need to a nice-to-have?

A recent survey shows that 35% of people who regularly visit the dentist have cut back on their dental visits. It’s an alarming percentage when we consider the ramifications of undiagnosed oral cancer, untreated periodontal disease and potential oral systemic health issues. What this survey tells me is that at least 35% of patients do not truly understand the importance of oral care. If they did, dental visits would always be prioritized as a need. As an industry, it is our responsibility to educate not only our own patients, but all consumers. Fortunately work towards this goal is already in progress with a public service ad campaigncurrently being developed by the Ad Council and the Partnership for Healthy Mouths, Health Lives for launch in 2012. However, we don’t have to wait until next year to start spreading the message. Every patient interaction with the dental team is an opportunity for education. Every phone call, every hygiene appointment, every exam, even time spent in the reception area or on your website provides a valuable opportunity to share the importance of oral care.  If you’re not sure how to get started, visit theWellness page for ideas. Start spreading the news today – oral health can’t wait!


Avoiding the Summer Slump
Summer is finally here and with it comes vacations, camps, family get-togethers, ballgames, festivals, and much more. People are busier than ever during the summer and it can be easy for dental care to slip down the list of priorities. Putting a summer plan in place for your office can help prevent cancellations and openings in your schedule. Use these ideas to get your own summer plan started:

• Confirm all appointments 48-72 hours in advance.
• Reinforce the importance of regular oral care by providing patients with systemic health articles and brochures.
• Share summer oral care tips in your newsletter, website or other marketing materials (lip balm with sunscreen to help prevent oral cancer, brushing immediately after sugary summer foods).
• Run promotions capitalizing on summer activities (whitening specials for wedding parties, etc.).
• Add a special summer bonus to your referral program.
• Review your broken appointment protocol and update as needed.