Summary: As orthodontic practices adapt to digital shifts, optimizing for regional SEO alongside local SEO is essential to attract a broader patient base. With remote monitoring reducing in-office visits, patients are more willing to travel for quality care, making a strong regional online presence a key factor in growth.

Key Takeaways:

  • Expanding from local to regional SEO helps orthodontic practices reach patients willing to travel for care.
  • Optimizing Google Business Profiles, maintaining directory consistency, and leveraging patient reviews improve visibility and credibility.
  • Targeted keyword usage and localized content strengthen search rankings and connect practices with both local and regional audiences.
By Amy Stafford

As the digital world continues to shift, so must orthodontic practices to adjust their online marketing strategies to stay ahead. One of the most significant changes we’re seeing is the move from a narrow local SEO strategy to an expanded regional. This does not mean abandoning local SEO but rather enhancing it to capture a broader audience. With remote monitoring reducing the need for frequent in-office visits, patients are increasingly willing to travel for high-quality care. To effectively reach and convert both local and regional leads, practices must optimize for regional SEO in addition to maintaining strong local visibility.

How to Optimize for Regional SEO

1. Keyword Optimization

At the heart of SEO is smart keyword usage. For orthodontic practices, using localized keywords is critical to showing up in search results where it matters most. Make sure you’re including keywords that speak directly to your geographic area, such as:

    • “Orthodontist near [your city]”
    • “Best orthodontist in [your region]”
    • “Clear aligners in [your state]”

    Also, don’t forget about voice search optimization, as more people are using voice-activated assistants to find services. Natural language phrases like, “Where can I find the best orthodontist near me?” can make a difference.

    2. Localized Content

    Tailoring your content to reflect your local community is a powerful strategy. Consider including:

      • Blog posts that highlight local orthodontic trends and your practice’s community involvement.
      • Testimonials from patients in your area, giving a personal touch.
      • Information highlighting how remote monitoring makes life easier and more convenient for your regional patients.

      Localized content builds trust and shows potential patients that your practice is truly part of their community.

      3. Citations and Directories

      Being listed consistently in online directories boosts your regional SEO efforts. Ensure that your practice is visible on platforms like:

        • Google Business Profile
        • Yelp
        • Healthgrades
        • Industry-specific directories, like the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)

        The key here is consistency. Your name, address, and phone number (NAP) must be the same across every platform to increase credibility and improve your rankings.

        4. Reviews and Ratings

        Reviews play a massive role in whether a potential patient chooses your practice. Encourage happy patients to leave reviews on:

          • Google Business Profile
          • Facebook
          • Healthcare-focused sites

          Always respond to reviews promptly, both good and bad, to show that you’re engaged and committed to patient satisfaction. Not only will this help improve your search ranking, but it also reinforces trust in your practice.

          5. Google Business Profile Optimization

          Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of your most valuable tools for increasing local visibility. Make sure it’s fully optimized by:

            • Keeping your profile up to date with accurate information.
            • Using relevant keywords in your practice description.
            • Posting regular updates, promotions, and patient success stories.
            • Including high-quality images of your practice, team, and technology.

            A well-maintained and polished GBP can be a game-changer in helping patients find and choose your practice.

            READ MORE: Dr Glaser’s Top 10 Reasons to Use Virtual Treatment Monitoring

            Why Regional SEO Matters

            1. Capturing Local and Regional Traffic: The majority of your future patients search for orthodontic services within their local area. Optimizing for regional SEO makes it easier for your practice to show up in search results when it counts, leading to more conversions. 
            2. Expanding Reach with Remote Monitoring: With remote monitoring, you have the opportunity to expand your service area. Fewer in-office visits mean patients are willing to travel further for the right care. A solid regional SEO strategy ensures that these patients can easily find you.
            3. Increased Visibility and Trust: Accurate Google Maps listings, strong reviews, and consistent directory listings all work together to build trust with prospective patients. A strong regional SEO presence establishes your practice as a top choice when they search for orthodontic services.

            The Impact of Regional SEO

            When you implement these strategies, your practice will see greater visibility, drawing in more patients, even from outside your immediate area. People are willing to drive further for convenience, top-tier care, and advanced technology. By positioning your practice as the go-to option in your region, you’ll capture a larger, more diverse patient base.

            Take Action

            To immediately improve your local SEO:

            • Use keywords like “orthodontist near [your region]” and “best orthodontist in [your city].”
            • Fully optimize your Google Business Profile.
            • Double-check that your NAP information is consistent across all platforms.

            Think about it—would you travel for the best? If yes, how would you find that provider? Now, ask yourself: Are you being found? Take a few minutes today to check your online presence and start optimizing for regional SEO success. OP

            Photo: ID 348691758 © Mohammad Abdur Razzaque | Dreamstime.com

            Amy Stafford, North American director for The Invisible Orthodontist, has dedicated almost 30 years to the orthodontic profession, a journey that began as a part-time summer job and grew into a lifelong passion. Stafford’s career has spanned roles from traveling nationally as a software and team trainer to in-practice positions as a records assistant, clinical assistant, treatment coordinator, marketing director, and leadership positions in management and business development. She was named SureSmile Treatment Coordinator of the Year and earned Disney Customer Experience Certification.