Module 11

Dental Practices

This quick-start guide covers Google Business Profile optimisation for dental practices. Patients research dentists carefully before booking. Your listing needs to build trust and make booking easy.

Your Setup Priorities

What to do

Focus on these elements first for dental practices.

Step by step

  1. Trust is everything. Patients are anxious about dental care. Your listing must project professionalism and reassurance.
  2. NHS vs Private clarity. This is often the first question. Make it immediately clear whether you're NHS, private, or both.
  3. Reviews address anxiety. Patient reviews mentioning gentle treatment, good experiences, and friendly staff directly address patient fears.
  4. Booking accessibility. How do new patients register? Can they book online? Make this crystal clear.
  5. Services specificity. General dentistry? Cosmetic? Orthodontics? Be clear about what you offer.

Recommended Categories

What to do

Choose categories that reflect your practice.

Step by step

  1. Primary category: Dentist — This is what most patients search for.
  2. Secondary categories based on services: Cosmetic Dentist, Pediatric Dentist, Orthodontist, Emergency Dental Service, Dental Implants Provider.
  3. Specialist practices: If you're a specialist practice (orthodontics, oral surgery), that might be your primary category.
  4. Don't overload. Only add categories for services you genuinely focus on.

Services to List

What to do

List your treatments comprehensively.

Step by step

  1. General dentistry: Check-ups & examinations, Fillings, Extractions, Root canal treatment, Crowns & bridges, Dentures.
  2. Preventive care: Hygienist appointments, Scale & polish, Fluoride treatments, Fissure sealants.
  3. Cosmetic dentistry: Teeth whitening, Veneers, Composite bonding, Smile makeovers.
  4. Orthodontics: Braces, Invisalign, Clear aligners, Retainers.
  5. Advanced treatments: Dental implants, Sedation dentistry, Oral surgery.
  6. Patient types: NHS patients accepted, Private patients, Child-friendly practice, Nervous patient specialists.

Photos That Work for Dental Practices

What to do

Show a modern, clean, welcoming environment.

Step by step

  1. Reception area. Clean, welcoming, modern. First thing patients see.
  2. Treatment rooms. Modern equipment, clean environment. Reassures anxious patients.
  3. Team photos. Friendly, approachable dentists and staff. Smiling faces (with nice teeth!).
  4. Exterior/building. Help patients find you. Show accessibility (ground floor, parking).
  5. Waiting area. Comfortable, modern, clean. Especially if you have amenities for waiting patients.
  6. Before/after (with consent). Cosmetic and orthodontic results. Powerful but requires patient permission.
  7. Modern technology. Digital x-ray equipment, 3D scanners, modern chairs — reassures patients you're up to date.

What to Include in Your Description

What to do

Key elements for a dental practice description.

Step by step

  1. NHS status immediately. "NHS and private patients welcome" or "Private dental practice" — patients need to know.
  2. New patient information. "Currently accepting new NHS patients" or "New patients welcome."
  3. Practice personality. "Friendly, family-focused practice" or "Specialist cosmetic dentistry."
  4. Nervous patients. If you cater well to anxious patients, mention it. "Experienced with nervous and anxious patients."
  5. Key services. Mention your main offerings and any specialties.
  6. Location and access. "Free parking available" or "Wheelchair accessible" — practical info.

Getting Reviews as a Dentist

What to do

Patient reviews are hugely influential for dental practices.

Step by step

  1. Reception desk cards. Business cards with review QR code that reception can hand out after appointments.
  2. Follow-up SMS. Text after appointment with review link. Many practices use automated systems for this.
  3. Ask after positive experiences. "I'm glad that wasn't as bad as you expected! If you could mention that in a Google review, it helps other nervous patients find us."
  4. Staff training. Train reception to ask satisfied patients: "We'd really appreciate a Google review if you have a moment."
  5. Respond professionally. Healthcare reviews require careful responses. Thank positive reviewers. Address concerns professionally without discussing personal health information.

Q&A to Seed

What to do

Pre-populate these common patient questions.

Step by step

  1. "Are you accepting NHS patients?" — Clear current status.
  2. "How do I register as a new patient?" — Step-by-step process.
  3. "Do you see nervous patients?" — Explain your approach to anxious patients.
  4. "Do you offer payment plans?" — Finance options for treatment.
  5. "Is there parking?" — Practical local information.
  6. "Do you do emergency appointments?" — Emergency availability.
  7. "What are your fees for private treatment?" — Pricing guidance or where to find it.

Priority Citations for Dental Practices

What to do

Get listed on these platforms.

Step by step

  1. NHS.uk (if NHS) — Essential for NHS practices. Verify your listing is correct.
  2. GDC Register — Verify your dentists are correctly listed.
  3. CQC — Your CQC registration page. Ensure information is accurate.
  4. Private dentistry platforms: WhatClinic, Treatwell, iWantGreatCare.
  5. Dental directories: dental-directory.org.uk, freedentistry.org.uk.
  6. Yell, Thomson Local — General directories still matter.
  7. Local CCG/ICS website — If NHS, your local health authority's find-a-dentist page.

Dental practice GBP checklist: