It's not your building, or your operatory equipment, or even your staff. Your practice's greatest asset is its patient base. What are you doing to protect it?

Free publicity. Did you ever realize that there is such a thing in the dental industry? Follow these five steps to get your dental practice publicity rolling.

P stands for Plenty. Plenty of patients. Not "just enough" patients. We're talking about having a few too many, to keep you in constant motion. That's the goal, and here is why.

What makes your dental practice different from the one across the street? If you don't know, then, probably nothing. Create an image for yourself; do something to stand out. Your uniqueness will entice people to choose your office over your neighbor's.

Everyone wants to have beautiful white teeth on their most important days. Any time pictures are being taken, those involved do not want to be embarrassed by bad teeth. Take advantage of this fact and market to these people.

Throw everything you thought you knew about marketing out the window. There are only three things that motivate people to buy. Use all of these things to get new dental patients in the door.

Plan. Plan. Plan. Track records, look at past figures and find out what is likely going to happen in your dental practice in the coming months. By looking back and planning ahead, you will be much more competetive and much more successful.

One is the loneliest number... especially in marketing. If your ONE marketing concept goes belly-up, what will happen to your new patient averages? Create multiple streams to keep your new patient flow stable.

Get involved. Show your neighbors that you care about them and they will appreciate your presence in their community. Make this a continuous part of your dental practice marketing.

Dental marketing is not just about getting the word out about your practice, it's about making sure that the people that respond to your marketing actually become patients. Take the necessary steps to ensure that this happens.