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Attracting orthodontic patients via the Internet: A 20-year evolution
1Private practice, Rio Rancho, NM.
Summary
Attracting orthodontic patients has shifted from relying on general dentists to needing a strong online presence. Successful orthodontists must optimize their websites for search engines to reach modern consumers seeking specialists online.
Area of Science:
- Dental Practice Management
- Digital Marketing in Healthcare
Background:
- Historically, orthodontic patient acquisition relied heavily on referrals from general dentists.
- The digital age has introduced new patient-seeking behaviors, with consumers increasingly using the internet to find specialists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the evolving landscape of patient acquisition in orthodontics.
- To emphasize the critical role of online visibility and search engine optimization (SEO) for orthodontic practices.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of historical patient acquisition trends in orthodontics.
- Assessment of the impact of internet usage on patient referral patterns.
Main Results:
- General dentist referrals, while still relevant, are no longer the sole primary source for new orthodontic patients.
- A significant shift towards online research by consumers seeking orthodontic care has been observed.
Conclusions:
- Orthodontic practices must adapt to the digital environment by prioritizing their online presence.
- Implementing effective search engine optimization (SEO) strategies is crucial for orthodontic practices to attract new patients in today's competitive market.

