Invisible on Google? Here Are the 7 Reasons (and Fixes)

You search for “dentist [your city]” and scroll through the results. Your competitors appear. Local chains appear. Even practices miles away appear. But your practice? Nowhere to be found. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone—and the problem is almost always fixable.

Why This Matters More Than You Think

Every day your practice is invisible on Google, potential patients are finding your competitors instead:

• 90% of patients use search engines to find healthcare providers
• The first three Google Maps results get approximately 70% of clicks
• Most searchers never scroll past the first page
• A practice not showing in local results essentially doesn't exist to online searchers

7 Reasons Your Practice Isn't Showing Up

1. Your Google Business Profile Isn't Verified

This is the most common issue. Without verification, Google won't show your practice in Maps results.

2. Your Profile Is Incomplete

Google prioritizes complete profiles. Missing information signals that your listing may not be reliable or up-to-date. (See our complete Google Business Profile optimization guide for what to fill out.)

• Business hours missing or incorrect
• No business description
• No photos uploaded
• Services not listed
• No phone number or website

Fix: Log into your Google Business Profile and complete every available field.

3. Wrong or Inconsistent Business Information

If your name, address, or phone number (NAP) differs between your website, Google listing, and other directories, Google may not trust your listing.

Fix: Audit all your online listings and ensure NAP is identical everywhere.

4. Your Practice Is Too New

Google tends to favor established businesses. If you recently opened or just claimed your profile, it may take weeks or months to gain visibility.

Fix: Focus on building reviews, adding content, and being patient. Continue optimizing while you wait for Google to trust your listing.

5. You're in a Highly Competitive Area

In cities with many dental practices, competition for the top 3 spots is fierce. You might be ranking #8 or #15—technically showing up, but buried where no one looks.

Fix: You need to outwork competitors on reviews, content, and profile optimization. There's no shortcut in competitive markets.

6. You've Been Penalized by Google

Certain violations can result in your listing being suppressed or suspended:

• Keyword stuffing in your business name
• Fake reviews (bought or from staff/family)
• Misleading business information
• Multiple listings for the same location
• Using a virtual office address

Fix: Remove any policy violations and request reinstatement through Google's support.

7. Your Website Has Technical Issues

Your Google listing is linked to your website. If your website has problems, it can affect your Maps ranking:

• Website not mobile-friendly
• Very slow loading speed
• No SSL certificate (http instead of https)
• Website not indexed by Google
• No local content or location pages

Fix: Have your website audited for technical SEO issues or work with a web developer.

Quick Diagnostic Checklist

Run through this checklist to identify your issue:

What to Do Next

Start with the basics: verify your profile, complete all information, and ensure consistency. Then focus on building reviews and adding fresh content regularly. Most practices see improvement within 4-8 weeks of fixing fundamental issues.

Remember: Google wants to show searchers the best, most relevant results. Your job is to prove that your practice is a trustworthy, active business that serves your community well.