A link to a short online survey was emailed to a sample of UK dental professionals at the beginning of May 2010 to understand reasons for using and not using social networking sites and the perceived benefits.  In total, 158 responses were received.
Well over half (59%) of the dental professionals surveyed stated that they use social Networking sites primarily as a means of connecting with friends and colleagues and sharing information.  Those not using social networking sites tended to state that they prefer other methods for contacting friends/colleagues, such as email and telephone.  Around a quarter of dental professionals stated that they use social networks to read product reviews and research products and services.
Tony Reed, Executive Director at the BDTA, commented “Although a relatively small sample of respondents participated in the research, the results indicate that social networking websites are used in dentistry as a means of communication and information.  The added benefit of social networking is that it represents a low cost form of marketing and staying in contact with customers.  BDTA members may wish to consider the merits of this as part of their marketing mix, particularly as it grows in popularity.”

For further information on the BDTA visit www.bdta.org.uk