How Dentists Can Increase Private Revenue or Secure a Private Role
Entering the world of private dentistry offers immense potential to focus on the work you love, dedicate more time to each patient, and deliver better care. This approach is both professionally rewarding and financially beneficial.
To help you achieve your goals, here are practical strategies tailored to your journey:
1. Use Photos and Intraoral Scans for Patient Communication
Educating your patients through intraoral scans and detailed photographs can have a significant impact:
- Boost Treatment Acceptance: Patients can see their own dental issues clearly.
- Build Trust: Visuals help patients become active participants in their care.
- Encourage Transparency: Co-diagnosing with patients fosters stronger relationships.
2. Prioritise Communication Skills
Improving communication is as important as clinical skills. Here’s how:
- Take Courses: Balance clinical and communication training. Consider experts like Ashley Latter and Barry Oulton.
- Read Books: Learn from Karl Walker Finch and Ashley Latter for practical advice.
- Listen to Podcasts: Stay updated with resources like the Protrusive Dental Podcast, Dental Digest Podcast, and Dental Leaders.
3. Build Your Portfolio and Showcase Your Work
A professional portfolio is essential for growth:
- Document Work: Use before-and-after photos to demonstrate your expertise.
- Boost Confidence: Sharing your work builds trust with patients.
- Stay Competitive: Keep an up-to-date portfolio for job applications and professional credibility.
4. Reflect and Grow Through Step-by-Step Photos
Regularly photographing your procedures helps in multiple ways:
- Self-Reflection: Assess your techniques for improvement.
- Encourage Growth: Identify patterns and refine skills.
- Collaborate: Share photos privately with peers for constructive feedback.
5. Reach Out to Dream Clinics, Even If They Aren’t Hiring
Be proactive in building relationships with ideal clinics:
- Proactive Networking: Express interest and offer to shadow their team.
- Show Value: Highlight how your skills align with their needs.
6. Invest in Your Own Materials
Short-term investments can lead to long-term rewards:
- Upgrade Tools: High-quality equipment improves outcomes and satisfaction.
- Enhance Skills: Purchase educational resources to boost efficiency and care quality.
7. Expand Your Knowledge Across Multiple Dental Modalities
Broaden your understanding, even if you don’t perform every procedure:
- Comprehensive Knowledge: Patients trust dentists with well-rounded expertise.
- Stay Updated: Learn about cosmetic dentistry, implants, and orthodontics.
8. Network and Learn Face-to-Face
Strong professional relationships and in-person learning are invaluable:
- Attend Courses: Gain insights and meet industry experts.
- Build Networks: Engage on LinkedIn, Facebook groups, or at dental events.
9. Establish Your Online Presence
Don’t rely solely on practice marketing:
- Create a Personal Brand: Build visibility through a website, Google Business, or social media.
- Leverage Social Media: Share work, case studies, and insights on Instagram and Facebook.
10. Understand Fee Setting and Value Delivery
Maximise your income by mastering pricing:
- Set Fair Fees: Reflect the value you deliver to patients.
- Know Costs: Understand the cost structure of procedures.
- Overcome Financial Fears: Address limiting beliefs about pricing.
11. Master Rubber Dam Use and Improve Efficiency
Develop skills that boost efficiency:
- Use Rubber Dams: Work more efficiently, particularly in restorative treatments.
- Advance to Quadrant Dentistry: Move from single-tooth procedures to comprehensive care.
12. Build Your Bank of Reviews and Testimonials
Positive reviews are critical for credibility:
- Collect Feedback: Regularly request reviews from satisfied patients.
- Showcase Testimonials: Display them on your website and social media profiles.