The simplest way to get more reviews for your practice? Ask.

It sounds obvious, but it's the step most practices skip. Even if you use an automated review request system, your team still needs to ask in person. When patients know a review request is coming, and understand that it matters to you, they are far more likely to follow through.

Ask at the Right Moment

The best time to ask is at the end of the appointment, once you know the patient had a good visit. Keep it warm and personal. Something like this works well:

"[Patient name], it was so great to see you today. We really enjoyed having you. How was your appointment?"

If they respond positively, follow up with:

"We would love it if you could leave us a review. It would mean a lot to our team. After your visit, you'll [insert review directions, e.g., receive a text with a link / scan this card]."

The key is to be genuine. When patients feel a real connection with your team, they're happy to help.

Ask About the Procedures You Want to Be Known For

If you want to grow a specific part of your practice, such as implants or Invisalign, ask those patients directly about their experience. Then let them know how much their story could help someone else:

"We have so many patients just like you who feel nervous about starting this treatment. Hearing someone's firsthand experience really helps. We'd love it if you'd share yours in a review."

This does double duty. It gives future patients the reassurance they're looking for, and reviews that mention specific procedures help search engines and AI tools connect your practice with those services.

No Automated System? Make Your Own in Minutes

You don't need expensive software to start collecting reviews. Here's a simple do-it-yourself approach:

1. Go to your Google Business Profile and click "Get more reviews" (sometimes labeled "Ask for reviews").

2. Copy the review link it gives you.

3. Head over to Canva and paste that link into their QR code generator.

4. Add the QR code to small business-sized cards and have them printed.

Now your team has something to physically hand patients when they ask for a review. This small tool makes a big difference. It gives staff a natural way to bring it up and makes it easy for the patient to follow through.

Track Who's Asking

Set up a simple system to track which team member asks each patient for a review. This builds accountability, shows you who's excelling, and highlights where more training might help.

Respond to Your Reviews

If you're asking patients to take time out of their day to write a review, take the time to respond. Replying to reviews shows potential patients what kind of practice you are. (Just be sure to follow HIPAA when you respond.) 

Motivate Your Team with a Goal

Reviews become a team effort when everyone can see the progress. Try this:

• Set a goal for new reviews each month.

• Post a simple tracker somewhere visible, like the staff room.

• Share the count at every morning huddle so the team knows where things stand.

• Read new reviews out loud during huddle. Hearing patients praise them by name is incredibly motivating for your staff.

• Add an incentive for the team when goals are reached.

One important note: incentives should be for your team, not your patients. Google's policies don't allow offering patients discounts or rewards in exchange for reviews.

It All Starts with Asking

Getting more reviews is absolutely possible, but it won't happen on its own. You have to ask. When you give your team the tools, training, and encouragement they need, they'll feel more confident asking, and your reviews will start to grow.