Local SEO Scorecard for Orthodontists
A specialized guide for Ortho practices to evaluate their Google Business Profile health, review velocity, and citation consistency.
The Orthodontic Search Landscape
Orthodontic searches are highly localized and inherently competitive. Patients are looking for specific treatments (like “Invisalign near me”) and heavily weigh distance and reviews.
How to use this scorecard
This guide breaks down the three pillars of local search visibility. Grade your practice on each pillar to identify immediate opportunities for growth.
Pillar 1: Google Business Profile Optimization
Your GBP is often the first interaction a patient has with your practice. It must be completely filled out, categorized correctly, and regularly updated with new photos.
Pillar 2: The Review Engine
Total review count matters, but velocity matters more. A practice getting 2 new reviews a week will outrank a practice that got 500 reviews three years ago and stopped.
Pillar 3: Local Citations
Ensure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) data is perfectly consistent across health directories, Apple Maps, Yelp, and local chamber of commerce sites.