How to write dental SEO optimized content

For dental professionals, diving into the world of SEO content creation can be as challenging as it is essential. While expertise in dental health is second nature, translating that knowledge into content that ranks well on search engines and connects with patients is a whole different skill set. The first obstacle is often knowing where to start, given the complexity and ever-changing dynamics of SEO.

Understanding the significance of SEO-optimized content is crucial for dental practices in today’s digital-first world. Let's break down why it’s an indispensable part of your online strategy:

• Competitive Edge: With many competitors already leveraging SEO, having optimized content helps your practice stand out. It's not just about keeping pace but about being a step ahead in the digital race.
• High Online Visibility: Over 90% of potential patients start their search for dental services on Google. SEO-optimized content ensures your practice appears prominently in these searches, capturing the attention of a vast online audience.
• Long-Term Sustainability: Unlike short-lived advertising campaigns, the effects of SEO-optimized content accumulate over time, providing lasting benefits and making it a sustainable marketing strategy.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to traditional advertising, SEO is a more budget-friendly approach. It targets users actively searching for dental services, leading to more efficient use of marketing funds.

1. Find profitable Keywords

Profitable keywords are the cornerstone of effective SEO content optimization for dentists. These are keywords that strike a balance between search volume and competitiveness, making them achievable targets for ranking on Google. Understanding and targeting the right keywords can significantly enhance your dental website's visibility and attract more potential patients.

Local vs. Broad Keywords

• Local Keywords: These are specific to a geographical location. For a dental practice, local keywords are vital as they target potential patients in your vicinity. An example of a local keyword might be "pediatric dentist in Houston" or "teeth whitening services in Miami."
• Broad Keywords: Broad keywords are more general and not location-specific. They are used to attract a wider audience. Examples include "best teeth whitening products" or "how to prevent gum disease."

How to Find Them

• SEMrush Keyword Magic Tool

• Ahrefs Content Explorer

Both SEMrush and Ahrefs are renowned for their comprehensive keyword research capabilities. The SEMrush Keyword Magic Tool offers an extensive database of keywords, allowing you to filter by various parameters, including location, to find the best local and broad keywords. Ahrefs Content Explorer provides insights into content performance across the web, which can help you identify trending topics and keywords in the dental field.

To effectively use these tools for finding local and broad keywords, start by inputting a basic term related to your services, like "dental care" or "orthodontics." Then, refine your search using filters for location (for local keywords) or broader categories (for general keywords).

2. Install an SEO Optimized and Captivating Theme 

An SEO-optimized layout is essential for any dental website, as it significantly influences how easily search engines can crawl and index your pages. More than just aesthetics, a well-structured website layout enhances user experience, keeps readers engaged, and professionally showcases your expertise.

How to SEO Optimize Page Layout

• Download Images from Freepik and Adobe: Utilize high-quality, relevant images from resources like Freepik and Adobe to add visual appeal to your site and reduce bounce rates. These platforms offer a vast collection of dental-related imagery that can make your content more engaging. 
• Install Captivating and SEO Optimized Themes: Opt for user-friendly and SEO-friendly themes like Phlox Pro, Salient, Divi, and Astra. These themes are designed with SEO in mind, often requiring little to no coding knowledge. They can enhance your website’s speed and ensure effective crawling by Google bots. 

3. Write the Content

When it comes to writing SEO-optimized dental content, there are several key elements to consider to ensure your content is both user-friendly and search engine optimized. Here’s a breakdown of these essential components and tips on how to effectively implement them:

• Keyword-Rich Headings: Use headings that include relevant keywords. Analyze competitors' sites, utilize SEO tools for keyword ideas, and draw inspiration from Google SERP’s "People Also Ask" and "Things to Know" sections to identify engaging, keyword-rich headings.
• Alt Text Optimization: Every image on your website should have alt text that describes the image accurately. This not only helps visually impaired users but also allows search engines to better understand and index your images. Include relevant keywords in the alt text, but ensure it remains descriptive of the image.
• Optimize Title Tag: The title tag should contain the main keyword you’re targeting. It's crucial for SEO, as it tells search engines what your page is about. After including the keyword, make the title compelling to encourage clicks.
• Optimize Meta Description: Write a meta description that includes your practice’s name, the services offered, and their benefits. Use persuasive language and incorporate keywords like “professional,” “expert,” “dental clinic,” “affordable,” etc. End with a call-to-action like “Contact us” or “Get in touch.”
• Schema Markup: Utilize WordPress plugins like “WP SEO Structured Data Schema” for easy implementation of schema markup. This helps search engines understand your page content better. Validate your schema using tools like the Schema Markup Validator. You can also opt for automatic schema generators from plugins like Yoast SEO.
• The Main Content: Ensure the main body of your content is informative, engaging, and includes relevant keywords naturally. Avoid keyword stuffing. Each section under your headings should be relevant and add value to the reader. Tools like AI writing assistants can help in ensuring your content is optimized and relevant.

By paying attention to these key elements, you can create dental content that not only ranks well on search engines but also provides value to your readers, enhancing both their experience and your website’s performance.

4. Incorporate Internal Links

Incorporating internal links within your dental website's content is a crucial SEO strategy, serving multiple beneficial functions. Internal links not only facilitate easy navigation for users, enhancing their overall experience, but also distribute link equity throughout your site. 

How to Incorporate Internal Links:

• Choose relevant keywords or phrases within your content that naturally lend themselves to linking to other pages on your site.

Types of Anchor Texts for Internal Links:

• Exact Match: Using an anchor text that exactly matches the keyword or phrase of the page you’re linking to.
• Partial Match: Using an anchor text that includes a variation or part of the keyword or phrase.

Both exact and partial match anchor texts have their place in SEO. Exact match can be very direct and SEO-focused, making it clear what the linked page is about. Partial matches, on the other hand, often appear more natural within content and can be used more liberally without seeming forced or over-optimized. The balanced use of both types contributes to a well-optimized and user-friendly site structure.

Mastering dental SEO content requires a holistic approach, integrating everything from selecting profitable keywords to optimizing on-page elements and internal links. By carefully crafting each aspect, you position your dental practice for enhanced online visibility and engagement, effectively bridging the gap between your expertise and your digital presence.

This Article was Written in Cooperation with The Jerusalem Post Group