Should your Dental Practice be on TikTok?

19 March 2024

Should you dive into TikTok, as a dentist? Forget what you thought about TikTok being just for dance crazes. Dental practices are finding it to be a goldmine for connecting with younger patients and showcasing their services in a fun and engaging way.

Why TikTok for Dentists?

TikTok is now a social media giant, boasting more users than Snapchat and ranking as the #3 platform globally, behind only Facebook and Instagram. But, unlike Facebook, its user base skews very young, with a significant user base in the 16-24 age range. It appeals to a wide range of demographics, but it is particularly popular among Gen Z.

If you want to build loyalty with the next generation of patients in your area, TikTok is the place to be. It allows you to create informative and engaging content that builds a personal connection and showcases the human side of your practice. This is something traditional advertising just can’t do.

Create content that stops the scroll!

To grab attention on this fast-paced platform, your content needs to be both educational and entertaining. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Quick How-To Videos: Brushing techniques, flossing methods, debunking dental myths – all presented with fun personalities and good production value. People are curious and love practical advice, so use that to grab their attention.
• Focus on Young Oral Hygiene: Most users on the app fall within the 16-24 age bracket and may not have a good understanding of the importance of good oral hygiene. Creating videos with tips on how to brush your teeth, or breaking down dental myths is a great way to inform and engage with a younger audience.
• Patient Transformations: Share dramatic before-and-after videos to show the amazing results you can achieve. Most people have some insecurity about their smile. Seeing real transformations can convince them you can work wonders on theirs too.
• Show Your Team: Patient testimonials are great, but introducing your team and sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses adds a personal touch. Today’s patients value authenticity. Showcasing a relatable and human team builds trust and connection.

It’s not *just* about the videos – use all TikTok Features!

• Hashtags: Use relevant hashtags strategically to reach potential patients. Think about terms related to teeth, dental hygiene, trending topics, or even holidays. But don’t go overboard – a few well-chosen ones are best.
• Trending Sounds: TikTok is as much about audio as visuals. Incorporate popular sounds and music your target audience knows to connect with them on a deeper level and boost the chance of your content being shared. The “Discover” tab can help you find what’s trending.
• Challenges: Jump on popular challenges to create fun and relatable content that connects with younger audiences. Challenges are a great way to showcase your creativity and authenticity, attracting new patients in the process. Plus, they get organic views, helping you grow your reach.
• TikTok Ads: Consider using TikTok Ads to maximise your marketing budget and drive conversions. While less structured than Facebook Ads, a savvy marketer can still achieve a strong return on investment. Creating engaging, informative, and creative ads is key to success here.

Our top tips for growing your presence

• Consistency is Key: Set a regular posting cadence, ideally daily. The more you show up, the more likely you are to gain followers.
• Be Yourself: People want to see the real you and your team. Ditch the overly professional persona and let your personalities shine through!
• Engage Your Audience: Respond to comments, answer questions, and host live Q&A sessions to build relationships with your followers.
• Stay on Top of Trends: Keep an eye on what’s hot on the app, including trending topics, challenges, and new features. Consider designating someone who uses TikTok personally to keep you informed.
• Collaboration is Key: Social media is all about community. Don’t be afraid to collaborate with other dental practices. There are enough patients to go around!
• Influencer Marketing: Partner with patients or local influencers who align with your brand values to expand your reach. Offer free treatment in exchange for promotion, for example.
• Cross-Promotion: Promote your TikTok content on your other social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube Shorts to drive traffic to your TikTok account.

The Takeaway – Should you start a TikTok channel as a dentist?

TikTok marketing offers a unique opportunity to connect with potential patients and showcase your dental services in a fun and engaging way. By creating valuable content, leveraging TikTok features, and maintaining a consistent and authentic presence, you can build trust, establish your expertise, and attract new patients.

So, what are you waiting for? If you haven’t already, create a TikTok account and embrace the power of social media to transform your dental marketing strategy in 2024!