When setting up your Google Ads campaigns, it’s essential to choose the right campaign types to maximize your return on investment (ROI). Each campaign type has specific advantages and is suited to different goals. As an orthodontist, your focus should be on reaching local patients who are actively seeking orthodontic services. Below are the three most effective campaign types for orthodontic practices: search campaigns, local service ads, and retargeting campaigns.
Search Campaigns
Search campaigns are the most common and highly effective ad type for orthodontists. These ads appear when a user enters a search query related to your services. For orthodontists, search ads target people actively looking for solutions like “braces near me” or “Invisalign in [city].”
Why Search Campaigns Are Key for Orthodontists
High Intent: People who use Google search to find orthodontic services are generally further along in their decision-making process. They are actively looking for help and are more likely to convert into patients.
Local Focus: Search ads allow you to target people in specific geographic areas, ensuring that your practice shows up for users who are nearby and ready to book an appointment.
Tips for Optimizing Search Campaigns
Use Local Keywords: Make sure to include location-specific keywords such as “orthodontist in [city]” or “braces in [neighborhood].”
Use Ad Extensions: Add location extensions, call extensions, and site link extensions to provide more ways for potential patients to engage with your practice.
Utilize Negative Keywords: Add negative keywords (e.g., “free orthodontic consultations” if you don’t offer them) to filter out irrelevant traffic and save your budget.
Local Service Ads (LSAs)
Local Service Ads are a unique ad format designed specifically for service-based businesses like orthodontists. These ads show up at the top of Google search results and are highly visible to people in your local area.
Why LSAs Are Beneficial
Increased Visibility: LSAs appear above traditional search ads and organic results, giving you prime placement in search results.
Google Guarantee: LSAs come with the Google Guarantee, meaning your practice is vetted by Google. This badge can help build trust with potential patients.
Lead-Driven: LSAs are designed to drive calls or messages directly to your office, making it easier for people to get in touch.
How to Optimize LSAs
Ensure Your Business is Verified: To run Local Service Ads, your orthodontic practice needs to be verified by Google. This typically involves background checks, licensing verification, and insurance validation.
Accurate Business Information: Ensure that all your practice details, such as hours, location, and services, are accurate and up-to-date on your LSA profile.
Gather Reviews: Patient reviews play a significant role in LSAs. Encourage happy patients to leave reviews on your Google My Business profile, as these reviews directly impact your LSA ranking.