Practice 40 Western University dental school interview questions covering clinical judgment, patient care philosophy, and ethical scenarios.
Question 30 of 40
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Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.
While certainly not as common as in the medical industry for physicians, dentists are still subjected to malpractice claims. In posing this question to you, the interviewing team at Western University School of Dental Medicine needs to know that you are aware of the most common types of malpractice in dentistry and that you would be diligent in your work to prevent them.

Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.
"Yes, I am aware of malpractice cases in dentistry, and it can be disheartening to hear about them sometimes. In cases involving infections, misdiagnosis, and delayed treatment, it likely came down to the dentist's lack of attention to detail. Although I would be diligent with my best work, there are no guarantees, and mistakes do happen. If I faced a situation like that, I would take full responsibility for my part in the situation but would defend my expertise and decision-making skills. The best thing any medical professional can do is to try their best every day, document very well, and only work with patients that you trust."

Ryan Brunner has over ten years of experience recruiting, interviewing, and hiring candidates in the healthcare, public service, and private manufacturing/distribution industries.
Before your interview with Western University, think about how you would react if you found yourself involved in a medical malpractice accusation. Focus on your ability to use problem-solving skills and remain calm in looking for solutions to the claim. Don't forget that your interviewers also want you to discuss your awareness of the common types of malpractice cases in dentistry, so do your research ahead of your interview and come prepared to discuss them.

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Written by Rachelle Enns
40 Questions & Answers • Western University School of Dental Medicine

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