You’ve heard that you need a custom dental website. You’ve heard that you need search engine optimization. Maybe you’ve heard that a blog would help you bring in new patients from the Internet. But how does all this work? How can your website show up at the top on Google?

First of all, no one can promise that your website will be in the first or second position on Google. That’s a lie. However, your site can do well and might even reach the first few positions if a strategic plan is put in place – and maintained – to achieve that goal.

Secondly, you need to know a few definitions…

SEO – Search Engine Optimization; SEO is the strategy that makes sites rank well online. A website’s words, graphics, layout, links, bolding, headings, etc. work on the frontend of the site for SEO, while code, submissions, and other features work on the backend. Front- and backend SEO must be addressed to truly have a good strategy.

SERPs – Search Engine Results Pages; This refers to the list that comes up when you type in terms into Google or another search engine. At the top of a Google SERP, you’ll see Google Maps listings. Those are free! Read more here. Beneath the maps, the “organic” listings begin. On the right, the “pay-per-click” listing appears. (more…)