The Dental Recall System That Actually Works
The short version
The average dental practice loses 17% of its patient base annually. Three-touch SMS recall (30 days, 14 days, 7 days before due date) improves recall rates by 25-40% over email-only systems. 100 additional retained patients at $500/year = $50,000 preserved.
The 6-month checkup is predictable. 60% of patients don't show up on time. The fix: three-touch SMS instead of one-touch email.
The three-touch sequence
30 days before: "Your checkup is coming up. Reply with a good day."
14 days before: "We have openings [specific dates]. Want me to book?"
7 days before: "Your checkup is due this week. Call or reply to book."
Cumulative response: 25-40% higher than single email reminder.
Building the system
Trikkl for dentists handles three-touch recall with procedure-specific intervals for $15/month.
Written by Jordan Hayes, Trikkl. Updated May 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What is a dental recall system?+
Automatically reminds patients when their next appointment is due — typically the 6-month cleaning.
Why do recall rates matter?+
2,000 patients losing 17% = 340 lost/year at $500 each = $170,000 in annual revenue walking out.
When should the first recall go out?+
30 days before due date. Gives time to check calendars.
SMS or email?+
SMS primary (98% open). Email backup (20%).
How does Trikkl compare to dental platforms?+
Trikkl: $15/month core recall. Dental platforms: $200-500/month with PMS integration.
What intervals for different procedures?+
Routine: 6 months. Perio: 3-4 months. Post-implant: 3 months first year.
Written by
Jordan HayesField Operations Lead, Trikkl
Jordan spent eight years running a 12-truck landscaping company in the Pacific Northwest before joining Trikkl to help build tools for crews just like the one he used to run. He writes about the operational systems that separate growing lawn care businesses from stuck ones.
