If you want your dental practice to show up at the top of Google search results, your Google Business Profile (GBP) is the most powerful tool at your disposal. A well-optimized GBP increases your visibility in local search results, attracts more patients, and helps you stand out from competitors.

But simply having a Google Business Profile isn’t enough—you need to optimize it properly to get the best results. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to make your GBP work for you, bringing in more leads and conversions.

Why Your Google Business Profile Matters

When potential patients search for a “dentist near me” or “best dental practice in [city]”, Google prioritizes GBP listings in the Local Pack—the top three business listings shown on the search results page.

An optimized GBP helps you:

• Rank higher in local search results

• Increase trust with potential patients

• Drive more calls, website visits, and appointment bookings

If you’re not showing up in the top results, you’re missing out on potential new patients. Here’s how to fix that.

Step 1: Claim & Verify Your Profile

If you haven’t already claimed your Google Business Profile, that’s your first step.

How to Claim & Verify Your GBP:

1. Go to Google Business Profile

2. Search for your practice’s name to see if a profile already exists

3. Click Manage Now and follow the verification steps

4. Google may send a verification postcard, call, or email to confirm your ownership

Once verified, you have full control to optimize your profile.

Step 2: Optimize Your Business Information

Google ranks businesses higher when their information is accurate, complete, and optimized for local search.

Key Details to Optimize:

• Business Name: Use your official practice name exactly as it appears on your website and signage.

• Address & Phone Number: Ensure consistency across all listings (Google, Yelp, Healthgrades, etc.).

• Business Hours: Keep them updated, especially during holidays.

• Website Link: Direct patients to your homepage or appointment booking page.

• Services & Categories: Select primary and secondary categories, such as “Dentist,” “Cosmetic Dentist,” or “Emergency Dental Care.”

Consistency is key—Google values accurate and up-to-date information.

Step 3: Add High-Quality Photos & Videos

Profiles with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more website clicks than those without.

What to Upload:

• Exterior & Interior Photos: Help patients recognize your practice.

• Staff & Team Photos: Build trust by showcasing friendly faces.

• Before & After Photos: Highlight successful dental procedures (with patient consent).

• Videos: A short tour of your practice or patient testimonials.

Google prefers images with a minimum resolution of 720px and in JPG or PNG format.

Step 4: Gather & Respond to Reviews

Reviews are one of the biggest factors influencing local rankings and conversions.

How to Get More Reviews:

• Ask satisfied patients after their appointments.

• Send follow-up texts or emails with a direct review link.

• Respond to all reviews (both positive and negative) to show engagement.

• Offer excellent service—happy patients will naturally leave reviews!

Responding to Reviews:

• For positive reviews: “Thank you, [Name]! We appreciate your kind words and look forward to seeing you again.”

• For negative reviews: “We’re sorry you had this experience. Please contact us at [phone number] so we can resolve this issue.”

Google rewards businesses that engage with their audience.

Step 5: Use Keywords to Improve Search Rankings

Including local SEO keywords in your GBP helps Google understand your services.

Where to Use Keywords:

• Business Description: “At [Practice Name], we provide top-quality family and cosmetic dentistry in [City].”

• Service Listings: “Teeth Whitening in [City], Invisalign in [City].”

• Google Posts: Regular updates with keyword-rich descriptions.

Step 6: Create Google Posts & Updates

Google Posts help keep your profile active and provide valuable information to potential patients.

What to Post:

• Special promotions or discounts

• Patient success stories

• Dental health tips

• Upcoming events or office updates

Pro Tip: Use high-quality images and clear calls-to-action like “Book Now” or “Call Today” to encourage engagement.

Step 7: Add Services & Appointment Links

Google allows you to list specific services and even link directly to your online booking system.

How to Add Services:

1. Log into your GBP dashboard

2. Click Services

3. Add key treatments (e.g., “Dental Implants,” “Emergency Dental Care”)

4. Include keyword-rich descriptions

If your practice offers online booking, add the scheduling link to encourage quick appointments.

Step 8: Track Performance & Adjust

Google provides insights on how people find and interact with your profile.

Key Metrics to Monitor:

• How many people viewed your profile

• How many called your practice

• How many clicked to your website

• What search queries led patients to your profile

Use this data to fine-tune your strategy and keep improving your local SEO rankings.

Conclusion: Get Expert Help to Dominate Local Search

Optimizing your Google Business Profile is one of the most effective ways to attract new patients and grow your practice. But maintaining a top-ranking profile requires ongoing updates and strategic adjustments.

Want to ensure your practice is always one step ahead of the competition?

📞 Schedule a Free Strategy Call to learn how we can help you fully optimize your GBP and dominate local search!

Your next patient is searching for a dentist right now—let’s make sure they find YOU first!