Did you know that 75% of people read online reviews before choosing a healthcare provider? That means three out of four patients are Googling your name before they ever call your office. The good news? You already have what they’re looking for—real, happy patients who are willing to share their experiences.

Back in the day, word-of-mouth referrals were everything. Today, they still are—only now, they live online. Patient reviews are your modern-day marketing secret weapon. 

And the best part? They’re free!

Let’s talk about how to turn those words into growth.

Why Patient Reviews Matter

Patient reviews aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential. They build trust, help people make decisions, and let potential patients see the real, human side of your practice. A glowing review can speak louder than a thousand-dollar ad.

Here’s why they matter so much:

Building Trust and Credibility

People trust people. When someone reads a review from a patient who felt nervous, showed up anyway, and left with a smile, that connection is instant. Reviews are proof that your team is kind, your care is excellent, and your office feels like a safe space.

Influencing Decisions

We’ve all read reviews before buying something online. Dental care is no different. Seeing a dozen five-star reviews gives patients the confidence to stop browsing and book that appointment.

Creating Emotional Connections

The best reviews aren’t just about clean teeth. They’re about the mom who finally found a gentle hygienist for her scared kid, or the retiree who smiled with confidence at her granddaughter’s wedding. These stories don’t just build credibility—they create loyalty.

Why Google Loves Reviews (and So Should You)

When patients search for dentists, Google doesn’t just want to serve up the practices with the best SEO—it wants to list the most trusted ones.

Every time someone leaves you a review, it sends a little “trust signal” to Google. Those reviews often mention your services naturally: “Dr. Miller did an amazing job on my veneers,” or “I found an emergency dentist at 7 a.m.!” That language helps your practice show up when people search.

More reviews equal more visibility. And that steady stream of fresh feedback helps your practice climb toward the top of Google Maps (also known as the map pack). That’s where the magic happens—more clicks, more calls, and more new patients.

How to Get More Reviews (Without Feeling Pushy)

You might be surprised to hear that most patients are happy to leave a review. They just need a little reminder. Asking doesn’t make you needy—it makes you human. And believe it or not, there’s actual psychology behind why asking works so well.

Ever heard of the Ben Franklin Effect? It’s a fascinating little quirk of human behavior. The idea comes from a story about old Ben himself. When he wanted to win over someone who didn’t like him, he didn’t flatter or bribe them—he asked them for a favor. Specifically, he asked to borrow a rare book. After the person lent it to him, something interesting happened. They started liking him more.

Why? Because when we do something kind for someone, our brains want to justify that behavior. “Well, I wouldn’t help someone I didn’t like… so I must like them.”

This plays out in your practice too. When a patient does you the small favor of leaving a review, they often feel more connected to you afterward. They’ve contributed something meaningful to your practice, and that tiny act reinforces their positive feelings.

There’s also another little trick that comes into play: the psychology of reciprocation. You just gave them a great experience—helped them feel comfortable, eased their anxiety, maybe even gave them back their smile. Most people want to give something in return. A simple, heartfelt review? That feels doable—and appreciated.

The key is to ask sincerely and make it easy. Something like:

“Would you mind doing me a quick favor? I’d really appreciate it if you shared your experience in a review. It helps others find a practice they can trust. You’ll get a link from us by text later today.”

It’s not about pressure. It’s about giving patients a chance to pay it forward, so the next nervous patient who reads their review feels a little more at ease.

A Few Easy Review-Boosting Tips:

• Make it ridiculously easy. Send direct links to Google, Facebook, Yelp, and Healthgrades. Drop them into appointment reminders, or create a “Review Us” page on your site.

   

• Follow up. A quick text or email after their visit can work wonders. Just a gentle nudge with a link.

   

• Add a little fun. Try a monthly drawing or thank-you giveaway. Nothing extravagant—just a little love in return.

   

• Be consistent. Train your team to ask after great visits. If a patient’s smiling on their way out, that’s your cue.

   

• Use QR codes. Display them at checkout or in operatories—patients can scan and leave a review on the spot.

Remember, this isn’t just about building your reputation—it’s about inviting your patients to be part of your story.

Don’t Just Collect Reviews—Use Them!

You’ve worked hard to earn your patient reviews, so don’t let them just sit there. It’s time to put them to work and let those glowing testimonials shine across every marketing channel you can.

Start with your dental office website. A dedicated review page is a must, but don’t stop there—pull standout quotes onto your homepage and individual service pages to reinforce credibility where it matters most.

Social media is another great place to spotlight your reviews. Turn them into eye-catching graphics or quick video testimonials. Real stories from real patients connect on a personal level and build trust fast.

Don’t overlook the power of digital ads. A short, positive quote can instantly boost the credibility of your Google or Facebook ads, giving prospects that extra push they need to click.

Landing pages are also prime real estate for reviews. Adding a strong testimonial next to a call-to-action is like including a trust badge—made of words. It reassures visitors and supports conversions.

In your email marketing, consider adding a “patient spotlight” to your monthly newsletter. It’s a simple way to showcase happy patients and reinforce your value.

Even printed materials deserve a dose of review magic. Brochures, flyers, and even waiting room posters can benefit from the social proof that reviews provide.

And finally, take advantage of the TVs or monitors in your reception area. A looping slideshow of patient reviews is subtle, silent, and super effective at reminding everyone why your practice is loved.

When the Feedback Isn’t Glowing (And What to Do)

Okay, real talk—not every review is going to be 5 stars. That’s okay. Actually, it’s good. A mix of feedback feels authentic. What really matters is how you respond.

Celebrate the Good

When someone leaves a positive review, reply!

“Thank you for your kind words. We loved having you in the office!”

Simple, sincere, and appreciated.

Handle the Not-So-Great

If a review stings, take a breath. Then respond calmly and kindly:

“We’re sorry to hear this. We’d love a chance to make it right. Please contact our office directly so we can talk.”

No defensiveness. No excuses. Just empathy and a willingness to improve. That reply says more about your practice than the review itself ever could.

Turn Criticism Into Loyalty

A disappointed patient who feels heard and valued can actually become one of your biggest fans. And when other people see you take that kind of honest feedback seriously, they trust you even more.

Let Your Patients Do the Talking

At the end of the day, you don’t need to shout about how great your practice is—your patients will do it for you. Their stories build trust, boost visibility, and connect with future patients in a way no ad ever could.

So go ahead—ask for the review, share the love, and let their words become your most powerful marketing tool.