In today’s digital-first world, more people than ever are relying on curated “best of” listings to guide their healthcare decisions and dentistry is no exception.

Whether they’re choosing a new dentist, comparing dental insurance plans, or looking for the best options for implants, braces, or major dental work, millions of consumers turn to trusted listings to simplify their choices. For dentists, DSOs, and dental insurance companies, getting listed matters! Here’s why being included in reputable, high-ranking dental listings can have a significant impact on your growth, credibility, and bottom line.

1. Consumers Trust Curated Listings and Act on Them

According to a 2023 survey by BrightLocal, 87% of consumers use online directories or listings when evaluating local service providers, and 81% trust “Best Of” lists as much as personal recommendations.

In dental care, that trust is even more important. When patients are unsure which dentist or specialist to choose, or are overwhelmed by dozens of dental insurance options, they often turn to ranking pages that simplify the decision-making process.

Being featured in a trusted “Best Dentist” listing, like those published by DenScore, boosts a dentist’s visibility and increases the likelihood of attracting new patients.

2. Visibility on Google = More Patients and Members

At DenScore, our Best Dentist listings often rank on page 1 of Google for high-intent search terms such as ‘best dental insurance for implants in {State},’ ‘best dentist in {City}’ and more.

Thousands of people visit these pages every month looking for clear answers and trusted recommendations. Whether you’re a dentist, DSO, or dental insurance plan, inclusion means high visibility with high-converting audiences without spending thousands on ads.

And because our rankings are based on real criteria that matter to consumers, dentists, specialists and dental plans that appear in our listings reinforce their reputation, not just their visibility.

3. Being Featured Builds Credibility and Trust

Let’s face it: if people are looking for a dentist, they don’t want to scroll through 30 pages on a dental plan’s “Find a Dentist” webpage. They want a shortlist from a trusted source.

Inclusion in a curated, third-party listing instantly builds credibility, whether you’re a dentist, dental group, or insurance plan. When potential patients or enrollees see your name ranked alongside other competitors, it sends a clear message that:

  • You’ve been vetted
  • You’re a recommended choice
  • You’re worth their trust, time, and money

That kind of implicit endorsement is powerful. In a crowded and often confusing dental marketplace, it helps you stand out and earn attention from high-intent consumers who are ready to make a decision.

4. It’s a Cost-Effective Alternative to Paid Ads and Agencies

Many dental offices and insurance plans spend thousands per month on digital marketing agencies and paid search ads and still struggle to stand out or generate high-quality leads.

Listings like DenScore’s offer a more affordable and performance-driven way to connect with ready-to-act consumers. Instead of chasing clicks or impressions, dental providers and insurance plans are showing up in front of people who are actively searching for either of these things.

For dental insurers, this means more member acquisition at a fraction of traditional acquisition costs. For dentists and DSOs, it means fewer wasted marketing dollars and more booked appointments.

5. Quality and Transparency Are the Future and Consumers Know It

One reason curated listings are so popular is that traditional dental insurance and provider directories often lack transparency. Many insurance plans for example don’t offer provider quality data or useful comparison tools because their allegiance lies with the dentists who make up their network, not the consumers who purchase their plans. The result: consumers are left guessing on which dentists will provide the highest quality care.

At DenScore, our listings and dental navigation tool are built to reflect the most desirable dental providers and insurance plans for consumers’ needs. That’s why we’re trusted by consumers and respected by industry leaders.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss the Moment

We’re in a new era of healthcare decision-making, one that rewards transparency, trust, and consumer experience. For dentists, DSOs, and dental insurance plans, the question isn’t whether curated listings matter, but whether they appear in them when the next prospective patient or member is searching.

Interested in having your dental office featured in DenScore’s Best Dentist listing in your city? Visit our Contact Us page today or email kyle@denscore.com to find out more information about how we partner with dentists and dental specialists nationwide.