A colleague of mine is hesitant to invest in online marketing for his oral surgery clinic. He argues that referrals from dentists are enough to keep his practice going. Do oral surgeons really need SEO, or is it just an optional add-on compared to traditional referrals?

It’s true that many oral surgeons rely on referrals, but digital marketing is becoming increasingly important.

Relying only on referrals limits growth, while SEO opens up new patient opportunities. A guide worth checking is https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ultimate-guide-oral-surgeon-seo-boost-your-online-presence-smith-z0hee/, which shows why SEO is not just an add-on but a strategic necessity. Patients today often research online before booking, even if they’ve been referred. If the clinic doesn’t appear in search or lacks reviews, potential patients may choose a competitor. SEO ensures visibility for searches like “oral surgeon near me” and highlights credibility through local rankings and testimonials. By blending traditional referral-based growth with a strong digital footprint, oral surgeons can build trust and expand their client base far more effectively.