In today’s digital world, online reviews are the new word-of-mouth. Whether patients are choosing a new dentist or deciding whether to move forward with treatment, they almost always check your reviews first.

So, the big question is:
How do you consistently capture 5-star reviews from your patients—without begging, bribing, or being awkward?

The answer is a combination of timing, systemization, and patient experience. Here’s your game plan.

1. Deliver a 5-Star Experience First

Before asking for a review, you have to earn it. That doesn’t mean being perfect—it means being intentional about how patients feel at every step of their visit.

Ask yourself:

• Is our front desk warm and welcoming?

• Do we stay on schedule?

• Are patients informed and comfortable during treatment?

• Do we celebrate wins (e.g., “Congrats on finishing your Invisalign!”)?

Even small touches—like remembering their name or offering a blanket—can create a memorable experience that inspires a great review.

2. Ask at the Right Moment

Timing is everything. The best time to ask for a review is right after a positive experience—when the patient is feeling great about their visit.

Examples:

• After completing treatment (especially cosmetic work or a pain-relieving procedure)

• After a hygiene visit where the patient gets good feedback

• After you go above and beyond in some way (e.g., squeezing them in last-minute)

Have your team trained to spot these moments and say something like:

“We’re so glad you’re happy with your smile! If you wouldn’t mind leaving a quick Google review, it would mean the world to us—and it helps other patients find a dentist they can trust.”

3. Make It Stupid Simple

Most patients won’t go looking for your review page—you need to bring it to them. The easier you make it, the more reviews you'll get.

Here’s how to streamline it:

• Send a review link via text or email right after the visit

• Use tools like Birdeye, Swell, Podium, or RevenueWell to automate review requests

• Place a QR code at checkout or in your operatory that links directly to your Google page

• Embed direct review buttons on your website and email signature

Remember: friction kills action. One tap should take them exactly where you want them to go.

4. Make It a Team Effort

Getting reviews isn't just on the doctor—your whole team should be involved.

Train your front desk, assistants, and hygienists to:

• Recognize when a patient is having a great experience

• Mention how much your office appreciates positive reviews

• Pass the baton: “You’ll get a text from us with a link—it’s super quick and helps us out a ton!”

Consider making it fun by tracking reviews and celebrating wins in your morning huddles or team meetings.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Remind Them

Patients are busy. Even the ones who genuinely want to leave a review often forget. It’s okay to send one or two follow-up reminders after their visit.

Tools like Swell or Birdeye can automate this without being pushy.

6. Respond to Reviews—All of Them

When you respond to reviews (especially the great ones), it shows patients that you’re engaged, appreciative, and human. It also boosts your visibility on Google.

Example response:

“Thank you so much for your kind words! We loved helping you achieve your smile goals, and we look forward to seeing you again soon!”

Pro tip: If you ever get a negative review, respond professionally and take the conversation offline to resolve it—this builds trust with prospective patients.

7. Promote Your Reviews Across Platforms

Once you start collecting great reviews, show them off!

• Feature them on your website

• Post review screenshots on Instagram and Facebook

• Use them in email newsletters

• Highlight patient success stories (with permission) to build trust and interest

The Bottom Line

Great reviews don’t happen by accident—they happen when you create great experiences and have a simple, consistent system for asking and following up.

When done right, your 5-star reviews become your most powerful marketing tool—building trust, attracting new patients, and reinforcing your brand as the go-to dental office in your area.

Benjamin Tuinei

Founder - Veritas Dental Resources, LLC
Phone: 888-808-4513

Services:
PPO Fee Negotiators | PPO Fee Negotiating | Insurance Fee Negotiating
Insurance Credentialing | Insurance Verifications

Websites:
www.VeritasDentalResources.com | www.VerusDental.com