ChatGPT vs Google: What Do You Need to Know
For years, dentists have relied on Google to bring new patients through their doors – through high search rankings, positive online reviews, and targeted Google Ads. But a shift is happening, AI tools like ChatGPT are changing how patients search online. Instead of typing keywords into Google and scrolling through results, patients are now asking ChatGPT questions like:
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“Who’s the best family dentist near me?”
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“What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?”
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“How much do dental implants cost in my area?”
And instead of showing links, ChatGPT answers with clear, direct, and trusted recommendations.
So how does this impact your dental practice, and how can you stay ahead?
Let’s explore what’s changing and how your practice can take advantage.
How ChatGPT’s search functionality works
ChatGPT, powered by OpenAI, is not your typical search engine. It can now browse the internet in real time, pulling up-to-date information from reputable sources. But unlike Google, it doesn’t list dozens of link – it delivers complete answers in natural language.
Here’s why that matters for your practice:
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Patients get quick answers about dental services.
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ChatGPT can mention practices by name if your online presence and reviews are strong.
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It uses real-time data, including Google reviews to form recommendations.
If your dental practice has a positive reputation online and clear content, ChatGPT may recommend you directly to new patients.
Is ChatGPT a threat to Google?
While patients still rely on Google to find local businesses and it continues to dominate global search with a 93.37% market share compared to ChatGPT’s 2.1%, it’s role as the go-to platform for traditional web searches remains secure. However, when it comes to seeking advice or comparing treatments and providers, more users are beginning to turn to tools like ChatGPT.
ChatGPT could be popular with:
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Busy parents looking for paediatric dentists
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Professionals comparing cosmetic treatments
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Seniors researching implants or dentures
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Patients with dental anxiety asking what to expect
How dentists can optimise for ChatGPT (and Google)
To stay visible in both traditional and AI-powered search, dentists need to think beyond just SEO. Here are the most effective strategies:
1. Create helpful, patient-focused content
ChatGPT loves clear, trustworthy content. That means your website should answer real questions your patients have:
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“Does Invisalign hurt?”
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“What should I do in a dental emergency?”
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“How much does teeth whitening cost?”
Use simple language, bullet points, and clear explanations. The better your content, the more likely AI tools will reference your site in responses.
2. Build a strong online reputation
AI tools scan reviews from across the web. The more 5-star reviews you have, especially ones that mention services and your location, the more trustworthy your practice appears to both humans and AI.
3. Use FAQ and service pages
Content and pages like “Frequently Asked Questions,” “The Benefits of X Treatment”, “What to Expect,” or “Finance Options” not only help patients, they also help ChatGPT understand your offerings and recommend you more accurately.
4. Add schema markup to your website
Schema is behind-the-scenes code that tells search engines and AI tools what your site is about – services, business hours, reviews, etc.
Why reviews matter more than ever
This is where EasyReview, our review-gathering service, becomes a must-have for dental practices.
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ChatGPT reads and references reviews when recommending businesses.
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Patients trust practices with high ratings and recent testimonials.
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Google Maps and local rankings still depend heavily on review quantity and quality.
With EasyReview, your practice can:
✅ Automatically request feedback from happy patients after appointments
✅ Build more 5-star reviews on Google
✅ Highlight real patient experiences
✅ Strengthen your visibility across both Google and AI platforms like ChatGPT
Do you need help growing your reputation and optimising your dental marketing strategy? Let’s chat. Give one of our team a call today on 01202 677277.
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