Speaking with some new practice owners, DIY websites can seem like a popular and budget-friendly option. We never speak against that approach—every owner has their own path, and in the early stages of launching a dental practice, it’s natural to explore the most cost-effective tools.
But after working with 1000+ of dental practices and seeing their challenges firsthand, we’ve noticed a few recurring patterns. There are important factors worth considering when deciding whether to build your own website or work with a company like DocSites.
Here are the top three areas to think about before choosing:
#1: Time—The One Thing You Can’t Get Back
As a practice owner, your time is your most valuable asset. The question isn’t can you build your own site. The question is—should you?
Building a strong online presence isn’t just about plugging a few photos into a template. A quality website includes custom content for each service you offer, optimized images, patient-friendly design, and integration with tools like online scheduling, forms, and Google Maps. Then comes SEO, mobile responsiveness, and ongoing updates.
All of that takes time—and if you’re doing it yourself, it’s not just a few hours here and there. It adds up. And every hour spent figuring out website plugins or trying to troubleshoot broken links is an hour taken away from training your team, refining systems, or building relationships with patients.
#2: Performance – A Good Looking Website Means Nothing if It Can’t Be Found
We’ve reviewed dozens of DIY websites that look decent on the surface, but simply don’t perform when it comes to online visibility.
Here’s the truth: Most DIY platforms aren’t designed for SEO. Sure, they can be optimized, but only if you know exactly what to do. That includes setting up proper page titles and meta descriptions, optimizing content around local keywords,, and more. These are not always intuitive or built into drag-and-drop templates.
This is why so many practice owners come to us saying, “I have a website, but it’s not bringing in any new patients.” In many cases, it’s not their fault—it’s the limitations of the platform and the lack of strategy behind the build.
#3: Experience & Support—What You Don’t Know Can Cost You
When you work with a company like DocSites, you’re not just getting a website—you’re gaining a team that understands dental marketing. We’ve spent over 16 years refining what actually works online for dentists.
That includes monthly support to keep your site fresh, technical updates you don’t need to worry about, and honest feedback when something can be improved. We know what matters to patients, what Google is looking for, and what features help convert visitors into scheduled appointments.
At just $79/month and no long-term contracts, our goal is to make professional marketing accessible—without sacrificing quality or service.
The Real Cost of DIY
In the short term, building your own site might save you a few dollars. But in the long run, it can cost more in missed opportunities—new patients who never find you, referrals who leave your site confused, or a brand that doesn’t reflect the level of care you offer.
A dental website shouldn’t just exist—it should work for you.
If you’re in that in-between phase—either launching your practice or realizing your DIY website isn’t delivering—consider taking the next step. Even a quick assessment can shed light on where your current site stands and what improvements could help drive growth.
We offer a free website and SEO assessment, with no strings attached. Just real insights to help you move forward with clarity.
Running a dental practice is already demanding. Your website should be an asset, not another thing on your plate. Whether you’re just starting or ready to upgrade, choose a solution that aligns with your time, your goals, and your growth.
Have questions or want a free second opinion on your site? We’re here to help.