How to Make Your Office More Fun, Engaging, and Memorable for Patients

If you're looking for creative ways to inject fun into your dental practice and keep your patients excited to return, you may be considering a raffle program. It’s a simple, low-cost idea—but does it actually work?

The short answer is: Yes—if done right.

A well-executed raffle program can:

• Strengthen relationships with your existing patients,

• Increase referrals and reviews,

• Create buzz and energy in the office, and

• Reinforce a positive, fun practice culture.

Let’s break down how raffles work in dental practices, why they’re effective, and how to run one that actually gets results.

Why Raffles Work in Dental Practices

People love incentives, especially when they’re tied to a little fun and excitement. Raffles provide a way to:

Reward desired behaviors

Such as:

• Showing up on time

• Referring a friend or family member

• Writing an online review

• Scheduling recommended treatment

• Paying at the time of service

• Participating in a practice social media campaign

Build patient loyalty

Raffles make patients feel appreciated and seen—which enhances their emotional connection to your office.

Differentiate your practice

Raffles and giveaways give your practice personality—especially in a sea of sterile, insurance-driven offices.

Should You Start a Raffle Program?

Yes—as long as you’re consistent, intentional, and compliant (more on that below).

Raffles are great for:

• Patient appreciation months

• Holiday seasons (think back-to-school, Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day)

• Celebrating office milestones

• Quarterly or monthly engagement campaigns

Even better? They're flexible, fun for your team, and often very affordable.

How to Run a Successful Raffle in Your Practice

1. Choose a Prize That Gets Attention

It doesn't have to be extravagant. Popular ideas include:

• Gift cards (Amazon, Target, local restaurants)

• Electric toothbrushes or whitening kits

• Themed gift baskets (coffee lovers, spa day, game night)

• Tickets to local events or experiences

• Seasonal prizes (summer gear, holiday gifts)

Pro Tip: Choose prizes that appeal to your ideal patients (busy moms? local families? working professionals?).

2. Define How Patients Can Enter

Tie entries to specific, positive actions. Some examples:

Each action earns a specific number of entries. Arriving on time grants 1 entry, while leaving a Google or Yelp review earns 2 entries. Referring a new patient provides the highest reward with 5 entries. Scheduling treatment on the same day adds 2 entries, and participating in a social media challenge can earn between 1 to 3 entries depending on the level of engagement.

Keep it simple, visible, and fair.

3. Promote It Everywhere

Don’t just put a sign at the front desk. Go all-in:

• Announce in email blasts or newsletters

• Post on social media with photos of the prize

• Have your team mention it during check-in and check-out

• Include a visual “entry box” in your waiting area

• Use countdown reminders ("Only 5 days left to enter!")

Excitement = Engagement. Keep the buzz alive throughout the raffle period.

4. Pick a Winner—and Make It a Celebration

Announce the winner on social media, in your newsletter, and in-office (with permission). Take a photo, tag them if they agree, and make it fun and visible.

Even the patients who didn’t win will feel the excitement—and many will say, “I want to enter the next one!”

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Before launching a raffle, make sure:

• You follow your state’s regulations on sweepstakes or drawings (some states have rules about raffles being tied to purchases or services)

• You clearly state that no purchase is necessary to enter (when applicable)

• The raffle is not tied to insurance billing or claims

• You keep HIPAA compliance in mind when promoting winners

If you’re not sure about the rules in your state, consult a healthcare attorney or compliance specialist.

Final Thoughts: Yes, Raffles Can Boost Your Practice Culture

Raffles are a low-cost, high-impact way to add fun and energy to your practice—while reinforcing positive behaviors and building community with your patients.

When done well, they:

• Help patients feel appreciated,

• Encourage word-of-mouth marketing, and

• Give your team something fun to talk about with patients every day.

If you’re ready to spice up your office vibe and stand out from the crowd—raffles are a smart, simple place to start.

Benjamin Tuinei

Founder - Veritas Dental Resources, LLC
Phone: 888-808-4513

Services:
PPO Fee Negotiators | PPO Fee Negotiating | Insurance Fee Negotiating
Insurance Credentialing | Insurance Verifications

Websites:
www.VeritasDentalResources.com | www.VerusDental.com