Alright, dental pros, let’s talk about December—the month of sugar cookies, eggnog, and holiday stress so intense it can crack a crown. As the year comes to a close, many dental practices see a slow-down, with patients too busy decking the halls to think about their oral health. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some seriously effective—and seriously fun—December dental marketing ideas that’ll have patients lining up faster than kids for Santa’s lap.
We’re going to make December the month to grow your practice, boost case acceptance, and fill your appointment book. Plus, we’ll talk about how a membership plan can keep that revenue rolling in, even when everyone else is out holiday shopping.
So, grab your peppermint mocha and get ready to sleigh (pun very much intended).
Why Holidays a Prime Time for December Dental Marketing Idea
You might be thinking, “Jordon, isn’t December when everyone cancels their appointments because they’re busy with holiday parties?” Sure, some people might do that, but here’s the thing: December is also the perfect time to remind patients to use up their insurance benefits, book last-minute cleanings, and set themselves up for a great start to the new year. Plus, everyone loves a good holiday-themed promo!
So, how do you make your marketing stand out among all the holiday noise? With creative, engaging, and downright fun ideas, of course. Let’s dive in!
1. Create a “Use It or Lose It” Campaign
You know the drill: Most insurance benefits reset on January 1st, which means December is the last chance for patients to use their benefits. Run a campaign reminding them that they’re essentially throwing money away if they don’t schedule a visit. Use urgency to your advantage!
Marketing Ideas:
- Send out email blasts with subject lines like: “Don’t Let Your Insurance Benefits Go to Waste!”
- Post on social media with graphics that show how much patients could save by booking before the end of the year.
- Run a countdown on your Instagram Stories: “Only [X] days left to maximize your benefits!”
2. Launch a Holiday Membership Plan Special: December Dental Marketing Idea
December is a fantastic time to push your membership plan. Why? Because people are in the mood to invest in themselves, especially as they start thinking about New Year’s resolutions and self-care. Offer a holiday deal on your membership plan, like a free whitening treatment or a discount for signing up in December.
Case Study Time:
Let’s talk about Dr. Megan Wright, owner of Bright Smiles Dental. Dr. Wright launched a membership plan last December, priced at $45/month (or $540/year), and marketed it as the perfect “gift of self-care.” Here’s what happened:
- 1,200 Patients Signed Up: Yes, you read that right—1,200 people hopped on board faster than you can say “holiday cheer.”
- Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR): $54,000
- Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR): $648,000
Dr. Wright was thrilled, and so was her team. With consistent income, they didn’t stress about the usual January lull. Plus, loyal patients who are members tend to accept treatment plans more readily because they feel invested in their oral health. Win-win!
Patient Love: “I signed up for the membership plan as a holiday gift to myself, and it’s been amazing! No more stressing over insurance. It’s the best thing I’ve done for my smile!”
Team Love: “Members are so much easier to work with. They’re loyal, committed, and excited about taking care of their teeth. It makes our jobs more enjoyable!”
3. Run a “12 Days of Giveaways” Promotion
Everyone loves a good giveaway, and what better time to do it than during the holiday season? Each day for 12 days, give away a small prize to patients who book an appointment, sign up for your membership plan, or refer a friend. Think gift cards, electric toothbrushes, or free fluoride treatments.
How to Market It:
- Use Instagram and Facebook to announce each day’s prize.
- Create a festive email series to drum up excitement.
- Have a holiday-themed prize wheel in the office for patients to spin if they book or refer a friend.
4. Partner with Local Businesses for Holiday Packages
This is a game-changer. Team up with nearby gyms, yoga studios, or wellness centers to create holiday wellness packages. For example, a “New Year, New You” package could include a discounted teeth whitening session and a free week of yoga classes.
Marketing Tip:
- Promote this partnership on social media and in your email newsletters.
- Create co-branded content with your partner business to reach a wider audience.
Why It Works: People are more likely to treat themselves to wellness services when they’re bundled together. Plus, you’ll get exposure to new potential patients through your partner’s audience.
5. Festive Social Media Content That Actually Engages: December Dental Marketing Idea
Boring social media posts won’t cut it in December. Instead, make your content fun and festive:
- Holiday Q&A: Go live on Instagram or Facebook and answer questions like, “What’s the best way to keep your teeth white during hot cocoa season?”
- Ugly Sweater Contest: Have your team wear the ugliest holiday sweaters they can find and post a photo. Ask your followers to vote on the best (or worst) one!
- Holiday Dental Tips: Share quick tips for avoiding cavities while still enjoying holiday treats. (Spoiler: Moderation and brushing are key!)
Content Idea: “Holiday Hack: If you’re eating candy canes, break them into pieces instead of sucking on them for 20 minutes. Your enamel will thank you!”
6. Send Out Festive Direct Mail Campaigns
Yes, direct mail still works—especially during the holidays when people love receiving something other than bills. Design a festive postcard reminding patients to book their end-of-year appointments or sign up for your membership plan. Add a holiday twist with a cheerful message, like, “Give your smile the gift of health this season!”
7. Offer a “Smile Bright for the Holidays” Whitening Special
Who doesn’t want a dazzling smile for holiday photos? Offer a special deal on teeth whitening in December. Bundle it with your membership plan for extra appeal: “Join our membership this month and get a free teeth whitening session!”
8. Create a Referral Reward Program with a Holiday Twist
Word-of-mouth is powerful, especially when your patients are feeling generous. In December, offer a special referral reward: “Refer a friend this holiday season, and you’ll both get a $25 gift card!” Make it easy for patients to refer friends with digital referral cards they can text or email.
9. Holiday-Themed Office Decor and Experiences
Deck the halls, literally. Transform your dental office into a winter wonderland with festive decorations. Offer hot cocoa or warm apple cider in the waiting room, and play holiday music to set the mood. Patients will feel the holiday spirit and appreciate the effort you put into making their visit special.
Bonus Idea: Create a holiday photo booth with props like Santa hats and reindeer antlers. Encourage patients to snap a selfie and tag your practice on social media.
Final Thoughts: December Dental Marketing Idea
December doesn’t have to be a slow month for your dental practice. With the right marketing ideas and a bit of holiday cheer, you can boost patient loyalty, fill your schedule, and set yourself up for a fantastic new year. And don’t forget: A well-promoted membership plan can bring in consistent revenue and make case acceptance a breeze.
So, what are you waiting for? Start implementing these strategies, and make December your most successful month yet. Your patients (and your team) will be grateful—and you’ll be celebrating all the way into the new year.
Now, go out there and sleigh it! (And don’t forget to treat yourself to some eggnog—you’ve earned it.)
