The 10 Minute Dental Marketing Podcast

Best Dental Patient Communication Software for 2026: What Dentists Need to Know Before Choosing a Platform

Episode Summary:In this episode, we break down the leading dental patient communication platforms for 2026 and explain how they help practices reduce no-shows, improve patient engagement, and streamline front-office work. You’ll hear how real features — not hype — affect your schedule, revenue, and patient satisfaction. Whether you’re comparing Weave, NexHealth, RevenueWell, Lighthouse 360, or any other option, this episode gives you a grounded and practical way to evaluate each system.
What You’ll Learn:
Why patient communication tools have become essential for practice growth
The specific features that directly influence no-shows and cancellations
How different platforms integrate with Dentrix, Eaglesoft, and Open Dental
What pricing ranges actually look like in the real world
Mistakes practices make when choosing software
How deposits, automated reminders, and two-way messaging affect patient behavior
Emerging updates for 2026 that may affect your buying decision
Key Discussion Points:
Real numbers on how no-shows impact dental practices
Pros and drawbacks of the top 10 communication platforms
Where practices see the biggest return on investment
What features matter for small practices vs. multi-location groups
How to combine communication software with marketing for better appointment flow
Risks to watch out for when relying on automation alone
Resources Mentioned:
Your Dental Communication Software Comparison Guide (free download)
Side-by-side spreadsheet with pricing, integrations, and user ratings
Consultation link for practices reviewing communication workflow or marketing strategy
Who This Episode Is For:Dentists, office managers, and practice owners who want to choose the right communication software without wasting time on demos or getting stuck with a system that doesn’t fit their workflow.
Next Steps:Download the comparison guide, review your current communication process, and schedule a consultation if you’d like help evaluating the best options for your practice.
 
A special thanks Dr. Megan Post of Decatur Dental Care for contributing to this post. 

Which Dental Scheduling System Is Right for Your Practice

Introduction
Choosing the right dental scheduling software reduces no-shows, increases patient satisfaction, and frees staff time. These show notes focus on selection criteria, feature trade-offs, and rollout tips to help you pick and implement a scheduling platform that fits your practice goals for 2026.
What You’ll Learn
The features that matter most for dental scheduling in 2026
How to evaluate platforms against practice needs and budget
Implementation and change-management steps to reduce friction and no-shows
Key metrics to track after launch
Key Segments
Core Selection Criteria
Online booking and patient self-scheduling
Two-way automated reminders (SMS and email) with confirmation and rescheduling links
Integration with your practice management system and calendar sync
Reporting on no-shows, confirmations, and appointment velocity
Secure patient communication and HIPAA-compliant messaging
Features That Reduce No-Shows
Short-message reminders with one-tap confirmation or reschedule link
Patient portals that show upcoming visits and allow quick rescheduling
Wait-list and recall automation to fill last-minute openings
Usability and Staff Workflow
Simple front-desk interface for booking and managing same-day changes
Team views, color-coded appointment types, and quick-blocking for emergencies
Training resources and vendor support SLAs
Implementation Tips
Pilot with a small user group and a limited appointment type before full rollout
Migrate with a data-cleanse: confirm patient contact info and opt-in status for messages
Communicate changes to patients via email, text, and on-hold messaging ahead of launch
Metrics to Track Post-Launch
No-show rate and recovery rate after automated reminders
Percentage of appointments self-booked online
Time saved per day for front-desk staff and changes in scheduling errors
Conclusion
The right scheduling platform balances automation, integration, and usability to lower no-shows and free staff time. Evaluate systems against clear criteria, pilot before full rollout, and track simple metrics to measure impact.
A special thanks to Dr. Jonathan Everett, of Burien Dental and Eric Xu of Precision Dentistry of Olympia for contributing to this episode. 

How the One Big Beautiful Bill Affects Dental Practices

Introduction
Recent federal legislation introduced tax and programmatic changes that affect dental practices, particularly pass-through entities and practices with meaningful Medicaid exposure. These show notes summarize the core provisions that commonly affect dental owners and outline near-term planning considerations. Continue reading (or listening) to see how the One Big Beautiful Bill impacts dental practices. 
What You’ll Learn
Which provisions are most likely to affect dental pass-through practices
How depreciation, Section 179, and qualified business income rules may change equipment and taxable income treatment
Which practices may benefit and which face revenue or compliance risk related to program changes
Concrete tax-planning actions to discuss with your CPA
Implementation timelines and practical next steps
Key Segments
Major Tax Changes Explained
Review how depreciation and expensing rules apply to recent equipment purchases and planned capital spend.
Evaluate the impact on taxable income calculations for owner-managed pass-through entities.
Qualified Business Income and Pass-Throughs
Reassess QBI calculations and thresholds in light of updated guidance; some planning that worked historically may need adjustment.
Medicaid and Programmatic Effects
Practices with significant Medicaid patient volumes should model revenue changes and billing implications tied to program updates.
Near-Term Planning Actions
Inventory recent capital purchases and planned buys; confirm optimal timing with your CPA.
Revisit entity structure and owner compensation strategies where relevant.
Ensure payroll and withholding systems are aligned with any new employer-related provisions.
Compliance and Reporting
Confirm new reporting deadlines and forms that may affect practice administration.
Document policy changes and maintain supporting records for audit readiness.
Conclusion
The legislative changes present both planning opportunities and operational risks. Work with your CPA to model specific impacts, prioritize timing for capital decisions, and update reporting processes. Treat this as an item for immediate review on your next financial planning cycle.
A special thanks to Jared Ripplinger, CPA, MBA, CFP®, CVA of Utah Accounting Firm, CMP for writing this blog post. 

Practical Strategies for Independent Dentists Competing With DSOs

Introduction
Independent dental practices can stay competitive against larger Dental Service Organizations by emphasizing strengths DSOs find difficult to replicate: deep patient relationships, local reputation, agility, and focused service positioning. These show notes summarize practical, local-first strategies to protect and grow an independent practice.
What You’ll Learn
Why independence is a defensible position versus DSOs
How to convert patient relationships into measurable marketing advantages
Local SEO and review strategies that move the needle
Operational and technology choices that improve patient experience and margins
Quick wins and longer-term initiatives to protect and grow revenue
Key Segments
Personalize Care at Every Touchpoint
Make continuity (same-dentist visits) visible in your messaging and intake flows.
Train front-desk and clinical teams to capture and use patient details for follow-up and retention.
Modernize Technology Where It Matters
Prioritize tech that reduces friction: online intake, easy booking, secure texting, and intraoral imaging.
Choose tools that save time or increase conversion rather than buying every available solution.
Strengthen Local Presence
Optimize your local listings and add location- and service-specific pages so searches map to intent and convert.
Use service-focused pages (for example, “anxiety-free dentistry [city]”) to match search intent.
Treat Customer Service as Clinical Care
Standardize response SLAs for calls and leads; measure and close leads within a set window. Quick, consistent phone handling is a competitive advantage.
Define a Local Niche
Pick one or two specialties (cosmetic, pediatric, sedation, same-day crowns) and own them across your website, social, and community outreach. We see Carlsbad Pediatric Dentist, Afsoon Fazeli doing a great job of this!
Community Visibility
Sponsor or participate in local events, host open houses or hygiene days, and partner with neighborhood organizations to build recognition.
Operational & Financial Discipline
Track patient mix, show rates, reappointment percentage, and marginal profitability by service. Avoid competing on price; optimize margins and capacity.
Conclusion
Independent dentists can win where DSOs cannot: relationship depth, local trust, and operational flexibility. Combine focused service positioning, local search presence, a superior patient experience, and tight operational metrics to convert those advantages into sustainable growth.
Learn more about Tyson Downs, the owner of Titan Web Agency.

Dentists: Get Better Results from Google Ads by Doing This

Dentists: Get Better Results from Google Ads by Doing This
Introduction
Google Ads are a fast way to reach potential dental patients—but only if you set them up correctly. This episode covers practical tactics to make your dental ads stand out, lower your costs, and attract more qualified new patients. Dive deeper in our source: how dentists can get better results from Google Ads.
What You’ll Learn
The fundamentals of setting up high-ROI dental ad campaigns
Tips for selecting the best keywords and negative keywords
How to boost the quality and relevance of your ads
Tools for tracking conversions (calls and leads)
How to create stronger ad copy and landing pages
Key Segments
Define Your Ideal Patient
Build patient personas to target precisely
Use location, age, and service-specific info
Choose the Right Keywords
Focus on high-intent and local keywords
Add negative keywords to filter out irrelevant clicks
Write Compelling Ad Copy
Highlight your unique services and offers
Use clear calls to action
Optimize Landing Pages
Match landing page content to the ad
Make it easy for visitors to schedule or call
Track and Optimize Performance
Set up conversion tracking for calls and online leads
Analyze results and adjust campaigns for better ROI
Conclusion
Getting the most from Google Ads takes targeted strategy, clear messaging, and constant review. Apply these tips to lower costs, attract more patients, and grow your practice.
 
A special thanks to Dr. Fazeli of Discovery Children's Dentistry & Orthodontics in Carlsbad, CA, for providing input on this episode. 

Using Patient Feedback in Dentistry to Strengthen Your Marketing

Using Patient Feedback in Dentistry to Strengthen Your Marketing
Introduction
Patient feedback is more than just reviews—it’s a powerful marketing tool. In this episode, we break down how to collect, analyze, and use patient feedback to drive practice improvement and win trust in your community. Learn more in our source: how to use patient feedback in your dental marketing.
What You’ll Learn
The most effective ways to get feedback from patients
How to use feedback to guide improvements and marketing messages
Practical ideas for managing and collecting more reviews
Tips for addressing negative feedback productively
Tools and systems to automate feedback collection
Key Segments
Request Feedback Regularly
Ask for feedback during or after appointments
Make it easy with digital surveys and follow-up emails
Encourage Public Reviews
Request Google and Facebook reviews after positive visits
Show patients where and how to leave reviews
Monitor and Respond to Feedback
Address concerns in a timely manner
Thank patients for both positive and constructive input
Analyze Trends and Take Action
Identify common themes or suggestions
Implement changes based on what patients want
Leverage Positive Feedback in Marketing
Use testimonials on your website and social channels
Share success stories (with permission)
Conclusion
Collecting—and acting on—feedback helps your practice improve, builds trust, and fuels your marketing with authentic patient success stories.
 
A special thanks to Dr. Megan Post, DDS of Decatur Dental Care in Decatur, GA for contributing to this episode. 

Retire Smart: 10 Must Do Steps Before Selling Your Practice

Retire Smart: 10 Must Do Steps Before Selling Your Practice
Introduction
Selling a dental practice is a major milestone. This episode outlines the must-do steps before retirement to help ensure a profitable—and stress-free—transition. You'll get practical advice to maximize your practice’s value and prepare for a smooth sale. Full details are in our source: 10 steps before selling your dental practice.
What You’ll Learn
Key financial, legal, and operational moves to make before selling
How to evaluate your practice and identify potential buyers
Ways to boost your practice’s value before listing
Negotiation and transition tips for a successful handoff
Steps to ensure continuity for staff and patients
Key Segments
Assess Your Practice Value
Gather financial records and assess production
Consider a professional valuation
Clean Up Financials
Settle debts and organize accounts
Remove personal expenses from the business
Increase Practice Appeal
Make necessary repairs or upgrades
Improve curb appeal and office aesthetics
Plan for Tax Implications
Consult with a tax advisor early
Understand the impact of asset vs. stock sales
Choose Professional Advisors
Work with a broker, accountant, and attorney
Get expert input at every phase
Prepare a Transition Plan
Ensure patient and staff continuity
Allow for a smooth handoff to the new owner
Conclusion
Preparation is vital when selling your practice. Take these ten steps to ensure you’re financially secure and that your legacy continues with the next owner.

Your Dental Implant Marketing Guide: 7 Strategies To Generate More Patient Leads

Your Dental Implant Marketing Guide: 7 Strategies To Generate More Patient Leads
Introduction
Dental implant marketing requires focus and expertise. This episode explores practical strategies to attract patients who need implants and build a strong local reputation. You’ll learn actionable marketing tips to generate more qualified leads and grow your dental implant cases. Read the full guide for even more ideas: 7 strategies to generate dental implant patient leads.
What You’ll Learn
How to identify your ideal implant patient and target them
Digital marketing tactics to increase implant inquiries
SEO and website tips to stand out in local search results
Content ideas that educate and convert patients
Ways to leverage patient reviews and social proof
Key Segments
Define Your Target Patient
Use demographic and behavioral data to profile likely implant candidates
Focus marketing on patients most likely to benefit
Optimize Your Website for Implants
Create dedicated implant service pages with before-and-after photos
Use strong calls to action to drive inquiries
Invest in Local SEO and Paid Ads
Target local keywords for implants in ads and website content
Use Google Ads and Facebook campaigns for targeted reach
Educate Through Content Marketing
Develop blog posts, videos, and FAQs about implants
Address common concerns and highlight patient outcomes
Leverage Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Display positive implant reviews on your website and profiles
Encourage patients to share their stories online
Build Partnerships and Community Presence
Connect with specialists, general dentists, and local organizations
Participate in events to raise implant awareness
Track Leads and Measure Results
Use call tracking and online forms to monitor campaigns
Regularly review ROI and update tactics to improve performance
Conclusion
A focused marketing approach helps you reach more implant patients and grow your cases. Apply these strategies to generate consistent leads and become your area’s trusted implant provider.

Dental Patient Retention: 15 Strategies to Increase Your Retention Rate

Dental Patient Retention: 15 Strategies to Increase Your Retention Rate
Introduction
Retaining your current dental patients is critical for practice stability and growth. This episode explains simple, high-impact ways to improve patient retention—helping you deliver better service while maximizing practice revenue. Get all the details from our source: 15 strategies to increase your dental patient retention rate.
What You’ll Learn
The essentials of patient communication for long-term loyalty
Practical ways to keep scheduling simple and convenient
Systems that help you follow up and personalize care
How small touches and rewards keep patients returning
Staff training tips to make every visit positive
Key Segments
Communicate Proactively
Remind patients of upcoming appointments
Check in after procedures to ensure satisfaction
Make Scheduling Easy
Offer online scheduling and text reminders
Provide flexible appointment times
Personalize Patient Experience
Remember patient details and preferences
Send personalized birthday or holiday messages
Offer Membership or Loyalty Programs
Reward repeat visits with discounts or perks
Solicit and Act on Feedback
Ask for patient input via surveys
Implement suggestions that benefit the patient experience
Train Staff for Consistency
Regularly review customer service standards
Empower staff to solve problems quickly
Conclusion
Patient retention isn’t just about dental care; it’s about making patients feel valued at every step. Use these practical strategies to keep more patients coming back and recommending your practice.

17 Ways to Increase Patient Satisfaction at Your Dental Practice

17 Ways to Increase Patient Satisfaction at Your Dental Office
Introduction
Satisfied patients are more likely to refer friends and return for future care. In this episode, you'll learn how small, actionable changes in your dental office can create a better experience for every patient. We go over proven steps to keep patients happy and loyal. Get more insights from our source: ways to increase patient satisfaction at your dental office.
What You’ll Learn
Proven methods to improve patient satisfaction
How to reduce wait times and streamline appointments
Ways to create a welcoming and comfortable environment
How to gather and use patient feedback for improvements
Tips for training your team to deliver better service
Key Segments
Improve Patient Communication
Clearly explain procedures, costs, and care
Answer patient questions and set clear expectations
Streamline the Check-in Process
Offer digital forms and clear signage
Make check-in fast and welcoming
Focus on Comfort and Cleanliness
Maintain a clean, calming environment
Add amenities like music, refreshments, and comfortable seating
Gather and Act on Feedback
Use surveys or follow-up calls after visits
Implement suggestions to address weaknesses
Train Your Team for Consistency
Regular team training for empathy and professionalism
Ensure each patient gets the same high level of care
Conclusion
Delivering consistent, positive experiences is key to patient satisfaction and practice growth. Implement these simple strategies to build trust, loyalty, and referrals in your dental practice.