A Guide To Instagram Reels For Dentists

Instagram has launched a new short-form video format, it’s comparable to the short-form video app TikTok. This new feature called Instagram Reels, allows you to record and edit short videos with audio and music soundtrack options to play over the video.

Here is what we know about Instagram Reels and how dental and orthodontic practices can utilize them for their social media marketing efforts.

Instagram Reels exists inside Instagram stories! You can access and create stories by tapping the camera icon at the top-left of your screen.

There is a carousel of options on the bottom of your screen with “Live” “Story” and “Reels” options. Once you tap on “Reels” you’ll be able to take a video and use the edit options on the left side of your screen to add music, clips, and effects!

Take some time to play around with Instagram Reels to become familiar with taking and editing videos. You can create test videos without sharing them and don’t worry, if you unintentionally do share a video you can delete your Reels anytime!

How do I know which posts on Instagram are Reels?

When scrolling through your feed or searching the explore page, you’ll be able to easily tell which Instagram posts are Reels videos by the clapperboard icon in the bottom left-hand corner of the video.

Viewing Reels is similar to viewing Posts and Live videos on Instagram. You can like or comment on Reels videos, and click through to see what audio track was used in any particular video.

A new tab has been added to every Instagram users’ profile to showcase their Reels in one place. This new tab is located beside the tabs that allow you to see recent posts, view IGTV videos or videos a user was tagged in.

There are many reasons your dental marketing strategy requires the use of video marketing! We have seen hundreds of practices increase their reach, build their reputation, and get new dental patients through their door by utilizing video in their dental marketing plan.

Schedule a quick demo of My Social Practice services to find out what custom dental marketing strategy will boost your practice into a super successful year.

Adrian Lefler is the CEO and Co-Founder of My Social Practice and a recognized dental marketing expert with nearly two decades of experience. He is a trusted voice in dental marketing, AI in dentistry, and emerging technology, and he hosts BYTE SIZED, a podcast focused on dental AI, innovation, and technology.