At Blue Horizons, we're great advocates of before and after photos of dental work. Done properly (ie without lip retractors; once gums have calmed down and are no longer swollen and/or bleeding; and in focus!) they can work extremely well. They clearly show what can be done - here are some great examples from our clients Stradbrook Dental: www.stradbrookdentalcentre.co.uk/public/smile-gallery.html
But here's a question - are before and after photos there to show what the treatment can achieve? Or are they there to show what you, the dentist, can achieve?
As a marketing agency, we wouldn't dream of using someone else's work to show what can be done. We want to show our own work off - we're proud of what we achieve, and want everyone to crave something similar for themselves.
Which is perhaps why I don't understand why dentists are happy to use stock before and after images. Don't get me wrong - there is absolutely no criticism implied here, I am genuinely curious as to what you think. So if you're feeling indulgent, please email me - hilary @ bluehorizonsmarketing.co.uk (you'll need to remove the spaces from this address) with your opinion. I'll publish as many of the replies as possible (let me know if you wish to remain anonymous) - it could lead to an interesting debate!
