Local SEO For Dentist in Richmond VA

Today, we're delving into the realm of dentistry. Are you a dentist eager to connect with new patients? Well, you're in the right place! Attracting and retaining patients is a challenge that all medical professionals face, and dentists are no exception. With the advent of the internet and the digital age, the way patients find and choose their dental providers has undergone a significant transformation. In this blog post, we'll explore SEO for dentist who want to thrive in a Google world and stay ahead of the curve. 

Google Business Profile SEO Tips for Dentists: #1

In the realm of local SEO for dentists, it's safe to say we're playing with the richest category available. This is important because Whitespark’s 2023 ranking factors study revealed that dentist who choose the right primary category will increase their rankings in local search results. Currently, you can choose up to 10 categories for your dental practice: 1 primary category, and rest as secondary categories. One thing you or your dental SEO company have to nail down to boost your presence on Google Maps and attract new patients is choosing the right primary category for your Google Business Profile. Out of all tips being provided today, knowing how to choose the primary dental category for your Business Profile has the greatest impact and should be the topic of discussion when hiring dental SEO services.

Which primary Google Business Profile (GBP) category should a dentist in Richmond VA consider?

Let's start with how may categories are available. As of right now, 13 available categories are for dentist. On the surface, this appears to be a fantastic development for enhancing local SEO for dentists. However, it also brings forth some distinct challenges, such as which category to make your primary. So which one do you pick?

• Teeth Whitening Service
• Dental Clinic
• Dental Implants Provider
• Emergency Dental Service
• Dentist
• Cosmetic Dentist
• Dental Clinic
• Orthodontist 
• Pediatric Dentist

From experience, we've found that in almost 100% of situations, the most effective category is simply "Dentist." Why, you ask? Well, because the keyword "Dentist" and its more geographic keyword, "Dentist + City/County," tend to generate the highest search volume. Surprisingly, most patients initiate their search journey with this broad query, even if they're ultimately seeking a particular dental procedure. This category choice appears to not only drive substantial traffic but also leads to the most conversions for our clients.

Google Business Profile SEO Tips for Dentists: #2

Once you've settled on your primary category, the next tip is around figuring out what to do with the remaining 9 available categories. Fortunately, for those keen on leveraging local SEO for dentists, there is a simple local strategy at your disposal.

Go ahead and select the 9 categories that align best with your services. This approach is the most practical, but it's not the most effective. Let's say you're a multi-specialty clinic in Richmond VA, offering services ranging from pediatric dentistry to orthodontics. Now, you're keen to secure a top spot in local searches for 'Pediatric Dentist Near Me.' Here's the hurdle you'll encounter: You'll be competing against specialized pediatric clinics that have 'Pediatric Dentist' as their primary GBP category. The odds of surpassing them in rankings are quite slim if not zero.

Even with that being said, the simplest approach is to choose the 9 secondary categories that make the most sense based on your dental services. The third tip is how to overcome this.

Google Business Profile SEO Tips for Dentists: #3

Google's got a feature for businesses with multiple practitioners. You can create separate Google Business Profile (GBP) listings for each practitioner. Now, why's this a game-changer? Well, let's say you're aiming to increase visibility in local searches for 'Emergency Dentist Near Me.' No sweat, you can make it happen. Just create a GBP for one of your dentists and choose 'Emergency Dentist' as the primary category. Looking to snag the top spot for 'Teeth Whitening Near Me'? Google's got your back. Craft a practitioner GBP, select 'Teeth Whitening Service' as the primary category, and you're on your way. Want some visibility as a 'Orthodontist Near Me'? You catch my drift.

Oh, and here's the pro tip: link each GBP listing to the specific service page on your website. For instance, if you're creating a practitioner listing to rank for 'Emergency Dentist Near Me,' make sure it's linked to the dental emergency services page on your website. It's like telling Google, 'Hey, this is where you'll find all the dental emergency goodness.'

Get in Touch with Your Dental Marketing Expert at Indispensable Marketing

Are you a well-established local dental practice in Richmond VA looking to crack the code of Google's local search algorithm? If your goal is to dominate the first page of Google's search results and score new patients, we are your go-to partner. We specialize in local SEO for dentist, offering a proven approach to dental SEO services to help you succeed.

Whether you're seeking marketing strategy consulting or monthly local SEO services specifically designed for dental practices, we've got you covered. Contact us today to learn more and take your dental marketing to the next level.