Get Found Locally: A Dentist’s Guide to Google Business Profile

Did you know 76% of people who search for a local business on their phone visit it within 24 hours¹?  

For dentists, this makes appearing in local search results extremely crucial. Google Business Profile (GBP), formerly Google My Business, will help people discover your practice and win trust from local patients. 

What is Google Business Profile? 

Google Business Profile is a free tool that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google Search and Maps. GBP will let people know about your dental practice location, timing, and services you offer. Thus, increasing the likelihood of residents’ visit². 

Why GBP Matters for Dentists 

• Improved Local SEO & Visibility: Optimised GBP improves your visibility in your locality. People these days search “Dentists Near me” or “Best Dentists Near Me” then as per the result, decisions are made. If you complete your profile, then your business will also appear in local search results. 
• Enhanced Patient Trust: A patient is likely to visit your clinic, if they are able to find positive reviews. Studies indicate that 77% of patients choose a doctor after checking online reviews³. So, a well-maintained GBP can play a crucial role in building trust. 
• ​​​​​​​Increased Engagement: GBP provides a scope to communicate with the patients through features like messaging and Q&A. It also allows them to book appointments direct; thus, saving an ample amount of time and effort. This, in turn, improves the conversion rates. 

Tips to Optimise Your Google Business Profile⁴ 

• Complete Your Profile: Add name, address, and phone number, along with working hours, and services offered. 

• Add Photos: Addition of images of the clinic and team will boost credibility. 

• Collect Reviews: Post-treatment, ask patients to drop a review. Hereafter, it is your responsibility to respond to all reviews. This will make them feel valued. 

• Enable Messaging: This will let people contact you directly, further improving the chances of conversion. 

• Post Updates: Keep sharing promotions, images, tips, and new services. 

Tips to Appear in the Local Searches 

• Keep name, address, and phone numbers consistent across all the directories and websites. 

• Use local keywords. 

• Track performance using GBP Insights 

Final Takeaway 

GBP has the ability to improve the local visibility of a business. By optimizing profiles and actively engaging with potential patients, online presence practices can be improved, trust can be built, and more patients can be attracted.  

Remember, in the competitive field of dentistry, if you want to be successful, it is mandatory to have a well-managed GBP. 

References 

1. Deepsense, T. (2025) How Local SEO Attracts More Customers to Your Business, Deepsense. Available at: https://deepsense.in/local-seo-drive-customers-business/ (Accessed: 6 October 2025). 

2.  Bushnell M. How to use Google Business Profile to improve your online presence. Business News Daily. Published November 22, 2024. Available from: https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/10054-google-my-business.html 

3. Sener C. Online reviews are becoming more important to patients in choosing their care: How to manage your online reputation in health care. Medical Economics. Published May 2, 2023. Available from: https://www.medicaleconomics.com/view/online-reviews-are-becoming-more-important-to-patients-in-choosing-their-care-how-to-manage-your-online-reputation-in-health-care 
4. Google. Google Business Profile: Get listed on Google. Available from: https://business.google.com/us/business-profile/