How to Get Google Dental Reviews in 10 Easy Ways
You put in the work. Every patient. Every visit. Every smile. But when you check your clinic’s Google profile, something feels off.
The reviews are outdated, there aren’t many, and that one-star rating still sits at the top.
The truth is, most patients won’t leave a review unless they’re asked. And even then, many don’t know how.
This guide will help you change that. You’ll learn how to turn real patient experiences into consistent, high-quality Google reviews that actually reflect the care you provide.
Is It Important for Dental Clinics to Ask Their Clients for Google Reviews?
Yes, and even more than most clinics realize.
These days, people turn to Google first when choosing a dentist. That means a patient’s first impression of your clinic often comes from your Google reviews, not your website.
When someone searches “dentist near me,” they see a list of clinics with star ratings and customer feedback. That alone can influence their decision.
If your clinic isn’t asking for reviews or asking often enough, you’re likely getting overlooked.
How to Ask Your Dental Clients for Google Reviews
The reality is, even your happiest patients probably won’t leave a review unless you ask them.
Most people only think about writing one when something goes wrong.
That’s why it’s important to ask for feedback if you want your reputation to reflect the quality of care you actually provide.
Here’s how to make that happen.
1. Ask in the Moment That Counts
When a patient expresses satisfaction—"That was so easy!" or "My teeth feel amazing!"—that's your moment.
Ask then and there: “We’re thrilled you had a great visit. Could you share that experience with a quick Google review?”
This works because sentiment is fresh and genuine.
2. Capture the Golden Window. 2 to 4 Hours After the Visit
Asking too late = missed chances.
Data shows review response rates skyrocket when requests go out within 2–4 hours of the appointment—hitting 34%, versus 12% after 48 hours.
If you've got an automated system, set it to trigger within that window.
3. Automate Smarter, Not Just Faster
Smart automation means messages that feel personal.
Instead of using a generic message like “please leave us a review,” segment your follow-ups by treatment type and personalize the tone.
For example: “Thanks for trusting us with your veneers. How did it feel?”
Tailored asks feel real. Not robotic.
4. Use a Direct Link or QR Code for One-Tap Reviews
Make the process simple.
A Google review link or a QR code placed on a card, receipt, or brochure can make a big difference.
When asking, just hand it over and say something like, “You can scan this to share your feedback. It only takes a few seconds.”
This removes extra steps and helps patients follow through without confusion.
5. Train Your Team on Contextual Prompts
Review requests should feel natural. Teach your team to pick up on positive signals, like when a patient smiles or gives a compliment after treatment.
In those moments, they can say, “We really appreciate hearing that. If you're open to it, would you mind sharing your experience online?”
Tone and timing matter more than memorizing a script.
6. Follow-Up Through Post-Visit Channels
If you call to check on aftercare or send a post-visit email, it’s perfectly natural to include a review request: “Glad to hear you're doing well. If you’d like, you can share your experience here [link].”
It’s thoughtful, friendly, and feels supportive rather than salesy.
7. Include a Quick “How‑To” Guide for Patients
Some patients hesitate because they’re unsure how to leave a review. A quick visual guide—either printed or on your site—works wonders:
Step 1: Click the link
Step 2: Select star rating
Step 3: Write two lines and hit submit
Clarity lowers resistance significantly.
8. Explain Why It’s Helpful Beyond Your Clinic
People respond when they see bigger meaning.
Say something like: “Your review helps others feel confident about choosing us. It’s more than words—it’s how we build trust in our community.”
That’s compelling.
9. Respond to All Reviews—Positives and Challenges
Reviews aren’t a one-way street.
Thank positive reviewers by name, and if there’s a concern, respond calmly, then follow up privately.
A thoughtful response can enhance trust, even more than a perfect five-star rating.
10. Showcase Reviews During Team Huddles
Share glowing reviews at your morning meetings. It shows everyone what good looks like—and why reviews even matter.
Build a culture around feedback. It keeps the team motivated and asking consistently.
Things to Keep in Mind When Asking Dental Clients for Reviews
Timing Is Everything
The best time to ask is when your patient is most satisfied—typically right after a successful appointment.
- Ask before they leave the clinic, or send a follow-up within 24 hours while the experience is still fresh.
- Waiting too long reduces the chances of getting a review. Patients get busy and forget.
Use tools like SurgePoint to automate timely reminders via SMS or email.
Keep It Friendly, Not Forceful
How you ask matters just as much as when you ask. Avoid making the patient feel pressured.
Use polite, appreciative language like:
- “We’d love to hear your thoughts!”
- “If you have a minute, your feedback would mean a lot.”
Avoid saying things like:
- “Please give us a 5-star review.”
Let the patient decide what to write. The more natural the review, the better it performs—and the safer it is in Google’s eyes.
Follow Google’s Rules (No Incentives!)
It might be tempting to offer discounts or freebies in exchange for reviews—but that’s a clear violation of Google’s policy.
- You can ask for reviews.
- You can’t offer rewards, filter only happy patients, or gatekeep feedback.
Doing so can result in your reviews being removed—or worse, your profile being suspended.
Conclusion
Getting consistent Google reviews can completely change the way people find and trust your clinic.
If you're still facing challenges—like a Google review not showing up or wondering whether you’re dealing with signs of a bad reputation—we’ve written about those too.
We also invite you to explore how we help dental offices and other industries like law firms, medical offices, med spas, plumbing, and landscaping services grow through stronger online reputations.
If you’re looking to take things further, our Reviews tool automates follow-ups, filters spammy reviews, and makes sure your best feedback shows up where it counts.
Pair that with Referrals, Repeat, and Insights, and you've got a full reputation marketing engine that works quietly in the background while you focus on care.
Check out our latest blogs or learn more about how we work at thesurgepoint.com. And if you ever have questions or just want to see how this might work for your team, feel free to reach out to us at info@thesurgepoint.com.
Wishing you luck—and momentum—as you turn your good work into great reviews.
