The Top 3 Spots on Google Maps Get 70% of Clicks. Here's How to Get There.

When a patient searches “dentist near me,” Google shows a map with three dental practices. These top three spots—known as the “Local Pack”—receive approximately 70% of all clicks. If your practice isn't in those top three positions, you're likely losing patients to competitors every single day.

Why Google Maps Ranking Matters for Dentists

Local search has transformed how patients find dental care. Consider these statistics:

• 97% of consumers search online for local businesses
• 46% of all Google searches have local intent
• 76% of people who search for something nearby visit a business within 24 hours
• 28% of local searches result in a purchase (or in this case, a booked appointment)

For dental practices, this means your Google Maps ranking directly impacts your patient acquisition. A practice ranking #1 can receive 5-10 times more calls than one ranking #10.

How Google Ranks Dental Practices on Maps

Google uses three primary factors to determine local rankings:

While you can't change your location, you can significantly improve your relevance and prominence signals.

7 Steps to Rank Higher on Google Maps

1. Claim and Verify Your Google Business Profile

If you haven't already, claim your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) at business.google.com. Verification typically requires receiving a postcard with a PIN at your practice address. This is the foundation of your local SEO efforts.

2. Complete Every Section of Your Profile

Google favors complete profiles. Fill out every available field. (For a detailed walkthrough, see our Google Business Profile optimization guide.)

• Business name (exact match to your signage)
• Address and service area
• Phone number
• Website URL
• Business hours (including special hours for holidays)
• Business description (up to 750 characters)
• Services offered with descriptions
• Attributes (wheelchair accessible, languages spoken, etc.)

3. Choose the Right Primary Category

Your primary category is crucial. “Dentist” is the most common choice, but consider your specialty. Options include:

• Dentist
• Cosmetic Dentist
• Pediatric Dentist
• Orthodontist
• Emergency Dental Service
• Dental Implants Provider

Add secondary categories for all services you offer, but keep your primary category focused on your main specialty.

4. Build Your Review Count and Rating

Reviews are one of the strongest ranking signals. Practices in the top 3 positions typically have significantly more reviews than those ranking lower. (Learn how to build yours in our guide to getting more Google reviews.) Focus on:

• Asking satisfied patients to leave a review
• Making it easy with a direct review link
• Responding to every review (positive and negative)
• Building reviews consistently over time, not in bursts

5. Add High-Quality Photos

Profiles with photos receive 42% more requests for directions and 35% more click-throughs to websites. Add photos of:

• Your exterior (helps patients find you)
• Your reception area and waiting room
• Treatment rooms
• Your team (with permission)
• Before/after cases (with patient consent)

6. Post Regular Updates

Google Business Profile allows you to post updates similar to social media. Use this feature to:

• Share special offers or promotions
• Announce new services or technology
• Post dental health tips
• Highlight team achievements

Aim for at least one post per week to signal to Google that your profile is active.

7. Build Local Citations

Citations are mentions of your practice on other websites. Ensure your practice is listed on:

• Yelp
• Healthgrades
• Zocdoc
• Your state dental association directory
• Local business directories

Consistency is crucial—use the exact same name, address, and phone number everywhere.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Keyword stuffing your business name: Don't add “Best Dentist in [City]” to your name. Google can penalize this.
• Ignoring negative reviews: Always respond professionally. It shows potential patients you care.
• Inconsistent NAP: Your Name, Address, and Phone must be identical across all platforms.
• Neglecting your profile: An outdated profile signals to Google (and patients) that you're not engaged.
• Buying fake reviews: Google can detect this and may remove your profile entirely.

Track Your Progress

Improving your Google Maps ranking takes time and consistent effort. Most practices see meaningful improvements within 3-6 months of implementing these strategies. The key is to track your position regularly so you can see what's working and adjust your approach.