25 Dental Hygienist Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Dental Hygienist interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 10 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Which do you recommend to patients, water flossing or string flossing?
How to Answer
If asked this question, be sure your answer demonstrates an understanding of both options. Underscore the importance of flossing in general as part of a healthy oral health regimen.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"For my patients that have recession or a more advanced stage of periodontitis, I recommend water flossing. Food debris can easily get stuck in the larger embrasures on these patients, and the water flosser can help to clean these areas."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"It depends on the situation. String flossing is more of the gold standard, but some patients have physical limitations or difficulty accessing certain parts of the mouth. If water flossing is better suited for that patient, then I recommend whichever flossing option they will use most regularly. One benefit of string flossing is the convenience. I often recommend that patients who have a hard time remembering to floss to keep some in their car or at their desk, places where they spend a significant amount of time."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Experienced Example
"Water flossing can be more comfortable for my patients with arthritis or other mobility issues. Other than that, since flossing is typically such a battle with patients, I recommend whatever they would be willing to do daily to maintain a healthy mouth."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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2. What is your current salary?
How to Answer
A potential employer may base their offer on your current salary. If you are unhappy with your current salary, be prepared with a detailed explanation. If you are looking for an increase, research offers for similar positions in your area based on similar years of experience. Detail additional benefits with your current employer, or which benefits you are looking to receive in this new position (time off, paid holidays, insurance, continuing education opportunities, etc.)
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"I am looking for a position with an employer with opportunities for personal and professional growth. In addition to salary and benefits, I also receive an equipment stipend and reimbursement for continuing education."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000 with the additional opportunity for performance incentives. I also receive benefits including short-term and long-term disability, medical, dental, and vision insurance. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
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3. Have you ever taken the fall for a situation when it was not your fault in order to protect a co-worker?
How to Answer
Taking the fall for a situation in order to protect a co-worker is a tricky situation. It can show teamwork, but it may not be the most honest thing to do. Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on taking the fall for something you did not do. Emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility will communicate that you are serious about teamwork, and are not quick to place blame on other individuals.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I wouldn't say that I 'take the fall' for a situation when I am not at fault, but I am willing to apologize as a member of the team when we fall short. I believe transparency and honesty are important, and I would never want to be dishonest in taking fault for something for which I was not responsible. "
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"As a leader, I have taken responsibility for the results of my team because I hold myself to that standard. If in a situation where blame is placed on me, I self-reflect and see if there was any way in which I contributed to the undesired outcome."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
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4. Have you ever broken a confidentiality agreement?
How to Answer
Companies will have confidentiality agreements for a variety of reasons. These could be to protect their trade secrets, patient confidentiality, or to ensure that you do not bring clients to a different location were you to ever leave the position. Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on confidentiality agreements, and alleviate any concerns that you would be dishonest.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"No. I have only once had a confidentiality agreement and had no problem adhering to it."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"No. As an employee, I will seek to honor the agreements that are set in place, which serve the best interest of myself and my employer."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
Experienced Example
"Confidentiality agreements are necessary and important to protect an organization. I understand the need for confidentiality and take those factors very seriously. I have never broken the trust of my employer."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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5. Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?
How to Answer
During an interview, it is okay to have a strength when deciding between two options. If you choose verbal or written, be sure to identify how you are growing in the weaker area of communication. Demonstrating a self-awareness and desire to improve are positive qualities for a potential hire.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"My preference between verbal and written communication is whichever method is most effective. Both are equally important and beneficial. If I have to choose just one, I like that written communication can be repeatedly referenced. I find this helpful when providing oral health education. If I can provide literature to support my instructions, patients can take this information home and continue to reference my instructions.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"I am a good verbal and written communicator. Between the two options, my preference is verbal communication. It gives me the opportunity to ask if there is a need for clarification. I am able to use nonverbal communication through tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language, things that are not available in written or digital forms of communication."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I like to use both methods of communication when providing high-quality patient care. Sometimes, situations call for verbal communication, and other times, written. As a rule of thumb, I tend to practice verbal communications, with written follow-up. Utilizing multiple methods creates repetition and opportunity to reinforce change."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
6. How do you show your co-workers the importance of communication in the workplace?
How to Answer
Communication is crucial in healthcare in order to achieve positive treatment outcomes. This question may provide an opportunity to highlight the working relationship between a dentist and dental hygienist. In establishing open and honest communication, the dentist and hygienist can work together in providing optimal care. Communication should always be through the appropriate secure channels if containing sensitive patient information, and should include proper documentation. When highlighting communication with others in the workplace, the interviewer will want to know that you will not partake in gossip or undermine a culture of respect and collaboration.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"I would demonstrate the importance of communication by prioritizing a good relationship with the dentist. I would want to be sure and regularly communicate with the dentist about patient findings, and clarify any areas of uncertainty. I would want to serve as an example of honest and constructive feedback that creates a positive work environment for others."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"In order to emphasize the importance of communication in the workplace, I would lead by example. I would encourage questions of others, and create regular opportunities to facilitate conversation. Whether it is a morning huddle or debriefing at the end of the day, gathering as a team can prioritize communication and create a more cohesive work environment."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I show my co-workers the importance of communication in the workplace simply by leading by example. I set the tone and expectations for how we should communicate by utilizing all forms of written, verbal, and interpersonal communications, early and often in the process. I do my best to document everything. An accurate history, especially on patient charts, is greatly beneficial if future reference is required."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
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7. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you are self-aware and understand the type of manager or employer that brings out the best in you. Some individuals prefer a close working relationship with a lot of accountability, while others prefer space and autonomy. If you are unsure of the management style of the interviewing company, try to leave your answer as open as possible. You can certainly ask the interviewer to describe their management style.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"I prefer a manager who is willing to try new things and is open to feedback and changes. I also like a manager who is great at explaining why certain policies or procedures are in place. If the manager is able to train from a place of understanding, it can help the team preserve efficient systems in place to maximize patient experience."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"I work well with a manager who prioritizes communication and gives clear expectations. I work best with someone who shares the desire to provide high-quality oral health care to our patients and gives me the autonomy to perform the responsibilities of my role as a dental hygienist. I would like to receive periodic feedback in order to improve."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
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8. How would you describe your work ethic?
How to Answer
When the interviewer asks about your work ethic, they are looking for specific examples or keywords to which they can relate. If the employer's website mentions particular values, include these in your answer. Talk about their values and how those align well with your work values.
Some positive descriptors of work ethic:
- Determined/Driven
- Accountable
- Humble
- Respectful
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"I am a dedicated and reliable employee. I perform my responsibilities to the best of my ability. I am enthusiastic about my role as a dental hygienist, and the positive contribution I can make as a member of this team. I am goal-oriented and willing to do necessary tasks in order to achieve specific targets and objectives."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
Experienced Example
"My work ethic can be described as reliable, honest, and consistent. You are welcome to speak to my references in regard to my work ethic. I am very proud of my reputation in the industry."
Written by Rachelle Enns
9. Tell me about yourself.
How to Answer
Provide a brief personal history that will provide context. This question is an opportunity to stand out among a potential pool of applicants. Provide positive descriptors about yourself, and things that you enjoy. If you mention an activity or hobby, highlight how that makes you a better hygienist.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"I like to be active and spend time outside. Exercise helps me to stay healthy and maintain the ability to meet the physical requirements in my role as a dental hygienist."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"I am a positive and outgoing person. I am relational and enjoy getting to know other people. I like to problem-solve, and exercise creativity in finding solutions."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
10. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
Clarify if there are any financial incentives for meeting production goals as a dental hygienist. In addition to financial incentives, share other ways that you could be recognized for accomplishments. If you share a previous experience where you were recognized, highlight how that impacted your performance and resulted in further accomplishments.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"It is encouraging to know when hard work is recognized and appreciated. Any genuine expression of gratitude would be well received."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"If I were to be recognized for an accomplishment, I would want it done in a way that highlights other members of the team. I may make a valuable individual contribution, but I think it's important to emphasize that each member of the team is valued. I would want my accomplishment to be a reflection of the coordinated effort of the office as a whole."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
11. How many years experience do you have as a dental hygienist?
How to Answer
If you have not provided your resume or curriculum vitae (CV) in advance, be sure to bring a physical copy to the interview. If you have previous employment experience, talk about the commitment you demonstrated to that employer. If you do not have previous employment experience as a dental hygienist, focus on the time you spent in training that dealt with direct patient care. The employer wants to know that you have demonstrated the ability to build the skills required to perform the responsibilities of a dental hygienist.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I was a dental hygienist for three years at my previous employer. During that time, I consistently met the production goals. I had a great relationship with the dentist. We enjoyed working together, and would collaborate on how to uniquely cater treatment to each patient in order to achieve the best outcome."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"I recently completed my training in dental hygiene, but the last year of my education was focused on patient care. During that time, I have become more efficient, confident, and skilled in providing hygiene services. I found that I enjoyed treating a variety of patients, and those with the most severe needs were often the most grateful."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
12. How have your previous dental visits influenced you as a hygienist?
How to Answer
The answer to this question could be positive or negative. If your previous dental visits have been a positive experience, share things that you have observed and what you seek to replicate in your patient care. If your previous dental visits were a negative experience, share how you would not make the same mistake. The employer wants to know how your personal experience impacts the treatment you provide.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"I have had the same dentist and hygienist for my entire life. I emphasize the importance of a dental home to my patients, and the value of returning to the same office for continuity of care."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"I love going to the dentist, and my dental home has been hugely supportive of my dental hygiene career. During my training, it was evident to me that I received quality care and I want to extend that same level of service to my patients. I want to be friendly, supportive, and encouraging to my patients, not only as a dental patient but as a valuable member of the community."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I have found that sharing about my previous dental visits helps patients to know I understand things from their perspective. It is easy to think that the dentist or hygienist practices perfect oral hygiene and has never had a dental problem. Sharing part of my personal history as a dental patient can help to alleviate anxiety and build relationships with my patients."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
13. How do you handle a patient who is scared or uncomfortable?
How to Answer
The answer to this question should demonstrate a desire to make all patients feel comfortable. Share key ways that you aim to relieve dental anxiety in children and adults. The employer wants to know that you will provide a positive experience for patients, regardless of their anxiety level, that will make them want to return in the future.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I will take my time with patients who are scared or uncomfortable. I listen if they have had a previous poor experience. I will also detail what the patient can expect if the general concern is unknown. I also validate patients and admire their bravery, especially if they have a previous diagnosis and were faithful to follow through with treatment."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"I have found that most patients are anxious when they don't know what to expect. I will review the diagnosis and treatment plan with the patient, and explain why the visit is necessary and the procedure will result in a positive outcome."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
3rd Answer Example
"I try to develop rapport with anxious patients by identifying a common interest. Having a conversation about another topic can be a distraction tool, and patients will forget about their anxiety and feel more calm and at rest."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
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14. How would you describe a good working relationship between colleagues?
How to Answer
Most employers are trying to determine if you will make a positive contribution to their dental office as part of the team. Focus on highlighting the ways in which a working relationship between colleagues can enhance the workplace environment and the patient care experience. One key idea to include is "professionalism." The employer will want to know that you prioritize professionalism, and take seriously your role as a healthcare provider.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
1st Answer Example
"A good working relationship between colleagues remains professional. The relationship should be based on mutual respect, and a desire to make a positive contribution to the workplace environment. As a team, it is important to provide the most high-quality experience to our patients. I believe that myself and my colleagues can do a better job for patients when we are working together. It is important to establish communication based on trust, which creates the ability to give and receive feedback in order to grow and improve."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"Ideally, colleagues are friendly and work well together. They should respect each other's perspective, opinions, and experience. Even in disagreement, they should always remain professional."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
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15. What is your experience working with children?
How to Answer
If your employer is a family practice, children will be included in your patient population. Share the importance of a dental hygienist's role in providing comprehensive care to children, and reassure the employer that you are equipped for the challenge. Sealants are a simple, non-invasive, and effective treatment that can prevent dental cavities. This type of procedure, and others, is great to mention when you are discussing previous experience with kids.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I am confident in my ability to work with children of all ages. I have experience working with kids who have dental anxiety, and I have acquired a few tips and tricks along the way that help to make them feel comfortable and cooperative. If I can make a positive impact on a child during the developmental period, we are setting them up for long-term success in the future."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"I enjoy working with children. At such a young age, I see the opportunity to make a lasting impact on their oral health. Children also ask the best questions, and these appointments are often the highlight of a work day."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
1st Experienced Example
"I have experience in placing dental sealants on permanent dentition. I like the challenge of isolating the tooth, but I take great pride in a well-placed sealant that can prevent pit and fissure decay. As kids develop healthy habits at home, I want their teeth to be protected and give them the best long-term prognosis."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
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16. How do you feel about educating patients on proper oral care?
How to Answer
Much of your role as a hygienist is focused on providing high-quality oral health instruction. When the interviewer asks how you feel about it, they are looking for an enthusiastic response. The interviewer is looking for reassurance that you care about patients and enjoy teaching them how to establish healthy habits. This may be an opportunity to share a previous experience in which the education you provided to a patient resulted in a positive outcome.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"I am interested in educating patients. I have a knack for teaching and coaching others and would like to help my patients think of ways to improve their health."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Patient education is a significant part of my role as a dental hygienist. I do my best to cater the oral hygiene instruction to the patient and equip them with the best recommendations to succeed. It's important to establish rapport with patients, so they trust my instruction and are more likely to follow through. In developing a relationship, I hope to be more effective in my patient education."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
Experienced Example
"As an experienced dental hygienist, I have had the opportunity to teach many patients over the years. I like to make recommendations but also take into consideration a patient's priority. Most patients simply need a little bit of encouragement and understanding on why oral health is so important."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
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17. If you are stressed, what signs occur and what do you do about it?
How to Answer
This question is meant to check your self-awareness. Respond in a way that shows your understanding of stress and how it affects you and others. Be careful not to communicate in a way that sounds like you cannot handle stress. If you share a previous moment of weakness, follow up with how that experience helped you emerge stronger professionally. It shows that you are human and affected by stress just like everyone else. Focus more on how you cope with stress than how stressed out you get. Knowing your triggers is key!
Written by Travis King on February 26th, 2024
Entry Level Example
"If I begin to feel stress, it might be a result of needing to complete multiple tasks at once. Usually, I will try to list these tasks in order of urgency, that way I know what to prioritize and can keep track of what I still have left to accomplish."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"When I first recognize signs of stress, I try to communicate with my team members. By working together to identify and manage the stressor, it can help me feel like I'm not alone in the process. It has been helpful in the past to debrief after a stressful experience, and determine action steps (if any) in order to create a healthier work environment for myself and others."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
18. What experience do you have performing tasks outside of your role as a hygienist?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you are the type of team player who will jump in and help your colleagues, whether it's "in your job description" or not. Show the interviewer that you will be proactive in assisting your colleagues when the opportunity arises. Be aware of your state's scope of practice, and think of ways you add value beyond your job description. If you have experience with reception work, taking calls, scheduling, and handling paperwork, those are also useful skills.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"As a dental hygienist, I can perform a variety of procedures in addition to routine hygiene procedures. I am able to administer local anesthetic, expose radiographs, serve as a chairside assistant, place and remove matrices for direct restorations, remove sutures, fabricate provisionals, take alginate impressions, and more. I desire to practice at the top of my license under direct or general supervision in order to maximize patient care."
Written by Travis King on February 26th, 2024
Answer Example
"I have previous experience working with dental insurances. It is important for patients to maximize their benefits, and I always want to provide the insurance company with the required documentation for authorization requests. I also have experience in building schedules that provide greater access to care without overwhelming the office.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
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19. What is a major ethical issue facing dentistry today?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to assess your awareness of concerns and active participation within the profession of dentistry. We recommend answering the question with a concern that emphasizes the dental hygienist's role in addressing that concern. In responding to this question, also emphasize the importance of ethics in the way you practice dental hygiene. The dental hygienist code of ethics emphasizes patient autonomy, confidentiality, justice, fairness, veracity, non-maleficence, and beneficence.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
"There is an unequal distribution of access to high-quality oral healthcare. Many patients are often uninsured or underinsured, and they feel like they don't have the ability to afford quality dental treatment. This leads to progression of disease that is preventable with early intervention. The field of dentistry is trying to figure out how to address this issue with roles like dental therapists, expanded function dental assistants, and others."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
20. What questions do you have for me?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you ask are not mundane or redundant. By doing your research ahead of time, you will show that you prepared for the interview in advance. Asking questions allows you to be an active participant in the interview. You will appear thoughtful and curious if you express genuine interest in learning more about the employer.
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Entry Level Example
Here are some additional sample questions:
- What is your desired start time for this position?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- Are there opportunities within this office for career advancement?
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
Answer Example
"Aside from the appropriate clinical training and licensure, what is the most important quality you are looking for in a candidate for this position?
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
21. Why should we hire you as our next dental hygienist?
How to Answer
The employer wants to feel confident in their selection. Emphasize your understanding of the job description, and how you can not only meet but exceed expectations. Don't be afraid to brag about yourself a bit. In an interview, you are your most influential advocate. This may also be a good opportunity to compliment the office and emphasize what attracts you to this employer.
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I am confident you will be pleased with your decision to hire me as a dental hygienist. I look forward to partnering with your team in caring for the oral health needs of your patient population and improving clinical outcomes. I want to make a positive contribution to this community and contribute my expertise and talent in the prevention and management of oral disease. I have firsthand experience in providing long-term care for patients with varying stages and grades of periodontitis. I will work closely with the patient's dentist to understand the periodontal diagnosis and recommended treatment in order to address the most urgent concerns."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"I am committed to providing high-quality patient care and am excited about this opportunity. This office has a great reputation, and I would be honored to work here as a member of the team. I would thrive in this position, and you can be confident in your decision to invest in me as your next dental hygienist."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
22. What do you feel are the most important qualities in a good hygienist?
How to Answer
When answering this question, think about your daily responsibilities. You want to demonstrate that you are knowledgeable and competent by directly addressing the qualities required to achieve better patient outcomes. If you are new to the profession, think about what you can anticipate based on your observation and training. What type of personality does it take to be a successful dental hygienist, and which of your strengths make you most effective at your job?
Written by Travis King on February 26th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"Dental hygienists should be warm and welcoming in order to help patients feel at ease in the dental chair. They should be effective communicators, understanding how to best communicate with patients in order to provide high-quality education and obtain informed consent for treatment. They should be compassionate, empathetic, and thorough in providing treatment, demonstrating the same level of care and concern that they would provide a friend or loved one."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"Some important qualities of a good dental hygienist include:
- Enthusiastic
- Detail-oriented
- Patient
- Energetic
- Attentive
- Friendly
- Knowledgeable
- Professional"
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
3rd Answer Example
"Great dental hygienists should be clinically competent and knowledgeable about oral health. They should be skilled at managing disease diagnosed by the dentist, and efficient in a wide range of treatment options. These qualities will help patients feel confident in the hygienist's ability to provide high-quality care."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
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23. What do you like most about being a dental hygienist?
How to Answer
Take this question as an opportunity to share your passion for oral health. In sharing what you like most about your role as a dental hygienist, emphasize the benefit you bring to the practice and the profession. If you focus on something that is personally rewarding, be sure to mention how that positively motivates your performance.
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"As a dental hygienist, I like seeing improvement in patients that have been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis, and patients that previously demonstrated a lack of oral hygiene. It is a great feeling when a patient returns for a recall or periodontal maintenance appointment and I can clinically see the positive result of their improved home care. I feel like I am making a positive contribution to their quality of life, and setting the patient up for success in the future."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"I like that I am able to provide high-quality oral healthcare to a diverse patient population. I enjoy getting to know my patients, and hearing where they are from. Although treatment might be similar, no two patients are the same, and I enjoy the variety and uniqueness of each appointment."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
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24. What is the most challenging aspect of this role for you?
How to Answer
When addressing challenges, talk about how you have or are currently working to overcome them. Better yet, talk about how you have learned to anticipate and prevent problems. Although the physical demands of a dental hygienist are great, mentioning this as the most challenging aspect of the role may lead to an assumption of your inability to meet the requirements. Most positions will detail the physical requirements in an offer letter or job description, and that may provide a better opportunity to discuss the physical demands.
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"The most challenging aspect of this role for me is the prevalence of oral disease. There is a large portion of the population with undiagnosed and untreated periodontal disease, especially among those with limited access to care. Addressing this challenge of disease prevalence is one of the reasons I became a dental hygienist. My role as a dental hygienist seeks to confront this challenge through oral health education, prevention, and treatment."
Written by Travis King on February 26th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"Getting patients to change their habits is one challenging aspect of my role as a dental hygienist. Whether it is improving oral hygiene at home by flossing, or making adjustments in their diet to decrease sugar and processed foods, it is challenging to cater patient education in a way that is received and followed."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
3rd Answer Example
"It can be challenging to keep up with the latest treatment advancements in the dental field. I do my best to remain up to date with my continuing education requirements and seek to practice evidence-based care. I get excited when I learn about something new that can make a positive impact on my patients, and I enjoy collaborating on treatment options with the dentist to achieve the best outcomes."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
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25. How would you handle a situation where the patient was not satisfied?
How to Answer
The interviewer knows you won't satisfy every patient. Take this question as an opportunity to demonstrate that you care and have the skills to listen and empathize with patients. It is important to highlight how you manage conflict or disagreement, not how you have avoided it in the past. By expressing a willingness to handle the situation privately, you may alleviate an employer's concern that you will disrupt patient care by involving others in a situation that could be handled discreetly.
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"In a situation where a patient was not satisfied, I would first seek understanding by listening to the patient's complaint. I would emphasize the office's desire to always provide high-quality oral health care, and offer my apologies on behalf of the team. I would attempt to clarify the root of the patient's dissatisfaction, and discuss options with the dentist and team on how to best address the concern."
Written by Travis King on March 1st, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"If I had a patient who was not satisfied, I would ask specific questions to discover the root of their concern. I would not take it personally, but use the opportunity to develop rapport with the patient and review treatment expectations and desired outcomes. I would also do my best to handle the situation without escalating by involving other team members."
Written by Travis King on February 27th, 2024