What do you feel is the single most important quality a dentist should possess?

"I believe that the most important quality for a dentist to possess is integrity. A dentist with integrity will always put their patients' needs before their financial interests. They will treat their support staff respectfully and dedicate themselves to improving their craft. Integrity is essential, so I am actively working on increasing my integrity level in various personal and professional situations. I show integrity by keeping my appointments and commitments and fulfilling my promises."

"I believe a dentist should possess empathy, above and beyond all other attributes, as this will carry any helping provider throughout their career with the right directives. Without understanding my patients' concerns and complaints, I would be doing them a significant disservice by simply providing 'textbook treatment.' I have already been building my empathy skills by taking on volunteer experiences outside my comfort zone and carefully examining any unconscious bias I may possess."

This question is an opportunity to give a unique answer, so try to dig deeper than generic answers like 'strong attention to detail' or 'strong communication skills.' If you are struggling for ideas, you could discuss an unrelenting drive, a consistent drive for improvement, a high degree of accountability, patience, or integrity.