It seems that information, updates, and recommendations to stop the spread of Coronavirus are changing by the minute. Dental practices across the country are updating health and safety policies or closing altogether. Many practices are discovering that patients are canceling or rescheduling their dental appointments to adhere to social-distancing advice. These constant changes make your social media pages critical. Your practice can provide value to your followers and patients online by being an active voice in the health care industry.

Whether your practice is keeping its doors open or closing for the next few weeks, social media is the first place patients will go to find updates on your practice. Social media allows you to keep in contact with your patients and followers, keep them updated and ensure that your number one priority is the health of your team and patients. Although your practice may be closed for regular appointments, your social media pages are still open to answer questions and update your patients on the status of your office and dental team.

The worst thing your dental practice can do is be silent when your concerned patients and community are looking for support online. Dental practices have a strong voice in their communities as healthcare workers meaning that many people will look to your practice’s social media pages for advice and reassurance.

Posting to social media allows you to establish yourself as a dependable practice and gives you the chance to build trust and create relationships with your audience. You’ll find that being present online is the best way to provide reassurance and stay in touch with your patients through this uncertain time.

We’ve laid out 9 ideas on how to stay active and connected to your dental patients online.

1. Record a short video for Facebook and Instagram with a few tips on at-home preventive dental care or record a video answering questions like “What is a dental emergency?” “What to do in case of a dental emergency?” Give instructions on exactly how to contact you if a patient has an emergency. Patients may be extra concerned about this right now, especially if your practice is closed.

2. Create a post that demonstrates the extra measures your practice is taking to protect your patients. This shows your knowledge, that you are taking the situation seriously, and assures your patients that their safety is your number one priority.

3. Post a photo or video of you deep-cleaning the office. Build trust with your followers by showing them the measures your team is taking to keep your practice exceptionally clean. Explain what kind of bacteria-killing products your practice uses to ensure a safe and sanitary experience for every patient.