Google’s AI Overviews Now
It’s been a year since Google launched AI Overviews, and the ripple effects are being felt across the internet, including in how patients discover dental practices. This new feature gives users instant, AI-generated answers at the top of search results, often before they even see traditional website links. For dentists who rely on dental SEO to attract new patients, this shift means it’s time to rethink how your practice shows up online and how you connect with potential patients through search.
What Are AI Overviews (And Why Should You Care)?
AI Overviews are a feature in Google Search that uses generative AI to create quick summaries in response to a user’s question. These summaries appear at the very top of the results page, often answering the query without requiring the user to click on any website. For example, if someone searches “Why do my gums bleed when I brush?” Google might display a short, AI-generated explanation that pulls from multiple sources — pushing traditional search results further down the page.
This matters because it can reduce the number of people clicking through to your website, even if your content ranks well. Informational searches, which many dental blogs target, are especially likely to trigger AI Overviews. That means fewer opportunities to convert curious searchers into new patients. Understanding when and how AI Overviews appear is the first step in adapting your SEO strategy for AI.
What Smart Dental Practices Are Doing Now
The most effective dental marketing strategies today are shifting focus from broad, generic search queries to more targeted, high-intent ones. For example, searches like “Invisalign dentist near me” or “Dr. Patel Salt Lake City reviews” are less likely to trigger AI Overviews — and more likely to result in actual patient clicks. That’s why many practices are leaning into local SEO and GEO, optimizing their Google Business Profile, and building content around specific services and their unique brand.
Another smart move? Diversifying your online presence. Dentists are seeing results from engaging in email newsletters, social media, and even showing up in Google Discover, where personalized content suggestions drive traffic without relying solely on search rankings. It’s also a great time to highlight what sets your practice apart. Focus on things AI can’t summarize, like patient testimonials, team stories, or local community involvement.
In short, instead of trying to win in the crowded world of general search answers, smart practices are carving out space where their voice and brand can stand out.
Bottom Line: Adapt Now, Stay Ahead
Google’s AI Overviews aren’t going away and with AI-powered “Search Mode” already being tested, it’s clear the search experience is evolving fast. While these changes can feel overwhelming, they also present an opportunity for dental practices to get ahead of the curve. The key is to stop relying solely on old SEO tactics and start building a more resilient digital dental SEO strategy: focus on local visibility, create content that showcases your practice’s personality, and strengthen direct connections with patients through email, reviews, and social media.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Google AI Overviews affect dental SEO?
AI Overviews can reduce the number of clicks your website gets from search results, even if your content ranks well. This is because Google may show a summary of the answer directly on the search page, which means fewer people click through to read more. For dental practices, that makes it even more important to focus on local SEO, branded keywords, and content that highlights your unique value.
Should my dental practice still invest in blogging if AI is summarizing answers?
Yes, but with a smarter strategy. Blogging is still valuable for establishing expertise, building trust, and improving local visibility. Focus your content on branded topics, location-based services, and patient-centered stories that AI can’t replicate. Think beyond generic questions to write content that reflects what makes your practice different.
What types of searches are less impacted by AI Overviews?
Searches that include brand names, local intent, or are tied to a specific business — like “Dr. Lopez dentist in Tucson” or “emergency dentist near me” — are much less likely to trigger AI Overviews. These types of queries still deliver strong click-through rates, making them valuable for attracting new patients who are ready to book an appointment. Make sure to employ dental SEO strategies that account for traditional optimization as well as AI overviews and other AI tools.
About the Author: Megan Nielsen is an SEO strategist and the Grand Overlord of copywriting at My Social Practice. My Social Practice is a dental marketing company that offers a full suite of dental marketing services to thousands of dental practices throughout the United States and Canada.
