What You’ll Learn:
- What Instagram’s new “Your Algorithm” feature does and how it works
- Why it’s a big opportunity for local dental practices
- Tips to tailor your Reels content for better visibility and engagement
- Reel ideas based on trending topics users can now select
- How this compares to TikTok’s personalization tools and what it means for you
Table of Contents
Instagram’s New Tool For Dentists
Instagram just handed us the keys to the algorithm.
With the launch of its new “Your Algorithm” feature, users can now see and influence what Instagram thinks they want to see on Reels, and by extension, what content gets surfaced on their feed. For dental practices using Instagram as part of their dental marketing strategy, this update could significantly improve how patients discover your content.
Let’s break down what this new tool does, why it matters for dentists, and how to make sure your content shows up in front of the right people at the right time.
Instagram’s “Your Algorithm” Feature Explained
Instagram rolled out “Your Algorithm” to U.S. users on December 10th, giving them a personalized list of content topics it believes they’re interested in. It covers everything from “pop music” and “college football” to “day in the life” and “skateboarding.” The list is generated by Meta’s AI based on recent user behavior.
Here’s what users can do with it:
- Tap to see more or less of any listed topic
- Add new interests manually
- Share their algorithm snapshot to Stories
This feature reshapes how content is recommended, and for businesses, it’s an open invitation to get more strategic with content.
“We’re always trying to show people the best possible reels for them,” said Tessa Lyons, Instagram’s Vice President of Product, in an interview with Fast Company. “I think we do a pretty good job today, but we don’t always get it right, and we know that people’s interests change. What we really want to do is give people control over the experience that they have on Instagram.”
That transparency—and flexibility—makes it easier for users to signal interest in specific niches and hobbies. For practices posting dental Reels that overlap with trending lifestyle topics, that means a much greater chance of being surfaced in front of ideal viewers.
Instagram has more than 2 billion active monthly users and is the third most-used social platform globally, making it a must for dental practices aiming to stay visible and relevant.
Why Dentists Should Care About This Update
Reels already dominate Instagram engagement. They account for over 60% of time spent on the platform, and users are resharing them more than 4.5 billion times per day. With the “Your Algorithm” tool, Instagram is now letting users fine-tune what they want more of, meaning you have a better shot at appearing in front of people who are looking for exactly what you offer.
Let’s say a user is into “day in the life” content. If you post a short behind-the-scenes video of a hygienist’s daily routine, that Reel could now show up in their feed, even if they’ve never followed a dental account before.
And here’s why it matters: 86% of Instagram users are on the platform for entertainment, and 36% use it like Google, searching for everything from product reviews to healthcare providers. That makes your Instagram profile a discovery machine in the making.
What Kinds of Reels Should Dentists Be Making Now?
You don’t need to completely overhaul your Instagram strategy but it is time to think more creatively about how your content connects with trending topics.
Here’s a helpful breakdown:
Reel Ideas for Dental Practices Based on Popular Instagram Topics
| Instagram Topic | Dental Content Idea |
| Day in the Life | A team member’s typical workday at your office |
| Pop Music | Use a trending sound over a smile transformation |
| College Football | Tailgate-themed dental tips (“Snacks That Won’t Stain Teeth”) |
| Thrifting/Vintage Style | Showcase retro dental tools or bust “old school” myths |
| Home Organizing | Tips for “decluttering your dental routine” |
Don’t abandon educational content! That’s definitely not what we’re saying. However, you should start connecting it to broader interests your potential patients might be selecting. The key is making content that doesn’t just promote services, but entertains and aligns with Instagram’s top reason for use: entertainment. Remember that your audience likely skews younger. 76% of U.S. adults aged 18–29 use Instagram, and 72% of U.S. teens say it’s their preferred platform.
Putting effort into creative ideas makes your Reels feel less like ads, and more like content people actually want to watch.
How to Make the Most of This Update
Here’s how to use the new tool to your practice’s advantage:
Audit your own algorithm. Use the feature personally to see what topics you’re being recommended. It’ll give you insight into how Meta’s AI categorizes behavior.
Test niche content. Try a few Reels tied to trending lifestyle topics and track engagement in Instagram Insights.
Use hashtags and captions strategically. Incorporate popular topic keywords (like #dayinthelife, #popmusic, or #collegefootball) to boost discoverability.
Encourage engagement. Ask followers to share their own algorithm snapshots to Stories and tag your practice for a giveaway or just for fun.
Stay consistent. Relevance is great, but consistency is what trains the algorithm and your audience.
Instagram vs. TikTok: Who’s Winning the Personalization Game?
While TikTok launched its “Manage Topics” feature last year, Instagram’s new tool is far more granular.
Where TikTok offers general categories like “Travel” or “Fitness,” Instagram’s list reflects your actual recent activity, meaning the recommendations feel more accurate and personal.
That’s good news for your dental content. It’s now easier than ever to land in someone’s Reels feed, even if they didn’t know they were looking for a dentist.
Bonus stat: Instagram ranks second in ROI confidence for marketers just behind Facebook. That makes experimenting with tools like Reels a smart bet for growth.
Final Takeaway: More Control = More Opportunity
This fun new feature signals a shift in how people discover content on Instagram. And that shift favors content creators (yes, even dental offices!) who are willing to be nimble, creative, and consistent.
If your practice is already posting Reels, this is the perfect time to get more intentional with your topics and trends.
If you haven’t started yet? This might be the best reason to jump in.
Need Help Reaching the Right Audience?
Let’s work together. My Social Practice helps dental practices create social media content that gets noticed and gets results. Whether you’re starting from scratch or ready to level up your dental social media game, we’ve got the tools, support, and strategy to make it happen. Contact us today to start posting Reels your community will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t use Reels yet. Do I really need to start?
Yes. Reels are one of Instagram’s most powerful tools for reaching new patients. And this update makes them even more targeted and discoverable.
How can I tell what my audience is interested in?
Use Instagram Insights to track what dental social media content performs best. You can also use interactive Story features (like polls and questions) to ask your followers directly.
Should I change my whole content strategy?
No need to overhaul everything when you can just evolve. Keep your core brand voice but integrate more lifestyle-driven content that ties into popular interest topics.
Will this help me get new patients?
It increases your visibility with potential patients, which supports long-term growth. When your content resonates, your audience is more likely to follow, engage, and eventually book.
About the Author: Megan Nielsen is an SEO strategist and the Grand Overlord of copywriting at My Social Practice. My Social Practice is a dental marketing company that offers a full suite of dental marketing services to thousands of dental practices throughout the United States and Canada.
