Tyson Steele Associates - Advanced Dental Marketing Concepts

Written By: Tyson Steele on 2009-12-18

We've had some economic growth in the last half of 2009. And, technically, that means the recession is over. However, the real question is whether we can maintain economic growth into 2010. And that's a tougher question.

Recent growth has been driven primarily by government stimulus (cash for clunkers, home buyer credits, etc.) and the rebuilding of depleted inventory. However, these are not permanent sources of growth. With real under-employment at 17.5% we've got a significant challenge to consumer confidence and spending.

Given that 80% of dental spending is largely elective, that's going to be a drag on cosmetic and preventive dentistry in 2010. So don't expect to be riding the wave of a strong economy any time soon.

The best strategy now is to continue to refine your patient relations and marketing in order to pick up the 80% of people who are still fully employed -- building your referral base to take advantage of the eventual "real" end to this Great Recession.