How to Get More Google Reviews for Dentists
Convert happy patients into 5-star reviews using HIPAA-compliant strategies that feel natural and professional.
When to Ask for Reviews
Timing is everything. Asking at the right moment dramatically increases your review conversion rate.
Best Moment to Ask
Right after a routine cleaning when the patient says something like "that wasn't bad at all" or compliments the hygienist. They're relieved, comfortable, and often pleasantly surprised. This is the perfect emotional moment to ask-they're already verbalizing satisfaction.
Worst Moment to Ask
Immediately after a painful procedure, when they're numb, or when they're still processing a treatment plan with a high cost. Even if the care was excellent, the timing will overshadow the ask and feel tone-deaf.
Post-Appointment Text with Direct Google Link
Within 2-4 hours of their appointment, send a personalized text message thanking them for coming in and including a direct link to your Google review page. The key is timing: they're back to normal life, the numbness has worn off, and they're reflecting positively on the visit. This strategy has a much higher conversion rate than email because texts feel more personal and get opened immediately.
Dental anxiety is real, and most patients are relieved when an appointment goes better than expected. Leverage that relief. Your review ask isn't just about marketing-it's about helping future anxious patients feel confident choosing your practice. Frame it that way, and patients feel good about helping others.
Getting reviews is only half the battle.
Reply Champion responds to every review with personalized, on-brand AI responses - in seconds. So the reviews you work hard to earn get the responses they deserve.
Start your free trialCopy-Paste Scripts to Ask for Reviews
Use these word-for-word scripts to ask happy customers for reviews. Customize the [bracketed] details for your business.
In-Person Script
I'm so glad everything went smoothly today! If you have a moment later, we'd really appreciate it if you could leave us a quick Google review. It helps other patients who might be nervous about finding a dentist they can trust.
Email Script
Subject: Thanks for trusting us with your smile, [Customer Name]
Hi [Customer Name], Thank you for visiting [Business Name] today! We hope your appointment went smoothly and you're feeling great. If you have a minute, we'd be so grateful if you could share your experience on Google. Your feedback helps us improve and helps other patients feel confident choosing our practice. [Google Review Link] Thanks again for trusting us with your dental care. We look forward to seeing you at your next visit! Warm regards, [Your Name] [Business Name]
SMS / Text Script
Hi [Customer Name], thanks for coming in today! We hope everything went well. If you have a moment, we'd love a quick Google review: [Google Review Link]. It really helps other patients find us. Thanks! – [Business Name]
Who Should Ask
Hygienists and front desk staff are your MVPs here. Hygienists build the most rapport during appointments and can gauge patient satisfaction in real-time. Front desk staff should reinforce the ask at checkout and handle the follow-up texts or emails.
Training Tip
Train your team to listen for verbal cues like "That was easier than I thought" or "You made me so comfortable." Those are green lights to mention a review. Also, never ask in front of other patients-keep it one-on-one and conversational.
Follow-Up Timing
Send the text or email 2-4 hours after the appointment. Too soon and they might still be numb or distracted. Wait until the next day and the moment has passed. Mid-afternoon follow-ups for morning appointments work especially well.
Where to Place Review Reminders
Make it easy for customers to leave a review by placing reminders where they already look.
Physical Placements
Checkout Counter Signage
A small, professional sign at the checkout desk inviting satisfied patients to leave a review. Include a QR code for instant scanning.
Appointment Reminder Cards
When handing patients their next appointment card, include a small note on the back: "Loved your visit? Leave us a Google review!" with a QR code.
Waiting Room Posters
Tasteful framed posters in the waiting area showcasing recent 5-star reviews and inviting others to share their experience.
Exit Door Decals
A friendly sign or decal near the exit door thanking patients and asking for a review. They see it on their way out when they're feeling good about the visit.
Digital Placements
Automated Post-Appointment Text
Send an automated SMS 2-4 hours after their appointment with a thank-you message and direct Google review link. High open rates and conversions.
Email Follow-Up Sequence
Automated email sent same-day or next-day after the appointment, thanking them and requesting a review. Include a clear call-to-action button.
Patient Portal Notifications
If you use a patient portal, add a pop-up or banner after they log in post-appointment, asking them to leave a review.
Social Media Stories and Posts
Regularly share patient testimonials (with permission) on Instagram and Facebook, and include a call-to-action to leave a Google review.
Compliance Note
HIPAA Compliance: Never mention specific treatments, diagnoses, or health conditions in your review requests or responses. Keep all communication general (e.g., "thanks for your visit" not "thanks for your root canal"). Train staff to never solicit reviews that could reveal protected health information. When responding to reviews, avoid confirming the patient relationship or any treatment details.
Getting Reviews Is Only Half the Battle
Once the reviews come in, you need to respond - fast and on-brand. Reply Champion uses AI to write personalized responses to every review automatically.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about getting more Google reviews for your dentists business.