30 Behavioral Interview Questions for a Dental School Interview
Below is a list of our Behavioral Dental School interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Have you ever had to work with an angry person on the job? How did you successfully manage the situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In dental school, you will work directly with patients. Because you need to have the ability to successfully navigate the inevitable angry patient or family member, the interviewers want to know that you can professionally handle these stressful or uncomfortable situations.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Briefly describe a time you had to work with a person that was upset or downright angry. Highlight your ability to remain patient and rational in the face of conflict. Focus the bulk of your response on the positive action you took and the resolution you came to with the person rather than details of the conflict itself. If possible, discuss a situation that occurred while on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Fortunately, I have had a lot of experience working with mad customers in the foodservice industry throughout my high school and college days. I'm confident that this experience has prepared me well to handle the angry patient with a sore tooth and the mad mother of a child with cavities. A couple of years ago, I had a customer confront me who was very angry with the service their waiter had given his family. I let him vent, and then I repeated back what he said to show that I was actively listening. While I realized that much of what he was angry about was completely ridiculous, I kept a smile on my face and ensured him that we would talk to the waiter to ensure that it never happens again and that this situation wasn't how we aimed to please our customers. Having a thick skin in this situation was important in diffusing the situation."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
2. Which statement sounds more like you: 'I hate to lose' or 'I love to win'? Give an example of a time you proved this.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewing team at the dental school you are interviewing with wants to know more about your love of winning and the impact that loss has on you. During your formal training to be a dentist, you will experience the highest of the highs and the lowest of the lows, and they want to ensure that you can handle both with ease during your time with their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Choose which of the two statements sounds most like you, and then be prepared to give the interviewer an explanation. For instance, if you hate to lose, you might express to the interviewer that the pain of losing has a more significant impact on you than the love of winning. You could follow up your response by talking about when you failed at something, how it felt, your actions to recover from the loss, and what you learned from the situation. The goal of your response is to express the fact that you have a healthy competitive side and to show the interviewer that you have the drive to win and succeed as a dental student.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"For me, I would say that I love to win. In the field of dentistry, I consider saving a patient's tooth or helping to bring a great outcome to be wins, and these wins would be celebrated by a large team. I love when we can all celebrate a win together, and I look forward to leading wins like these in dental school. With that said, I also hate to lose. Whenever I feel like I underperform, I use that as a lesson to move forward and learn from. Looking back over my path to this point, my biggest wins have come in teams when I was playing sports in high school and college. I find being part of a team very rewarding."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
3. Describe a time you showed initiative at work. How will you bring this same attitude to dental school?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants evidence that you are the type of person to take the initiative in the workplace. As a new dental student with their program, you may be relied upon to take the initiative with patients. You will be working with teams of hygienists and other support staff for the first time, and you'll need to prove that you won't shy away from taking the initiative with these teams.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Taking the initiative could mean that you take on responsibilities independently without being asked or continually coached by your manager. It could also mean that you are the type of person who jumps in and assumes the lead before others do or before being asked. Answer this question by telling the interviewer about a specific time you showed initiative in your work. Outline the situation, describe the task, and explain the actions you took to take the initiative. Give as much detail as you can regarding the positive results of your actions. At the end of your response, be sure to describe your high level of initiative and explain how this characteristic will benefit you as a dental student with this program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Service to my community and the underserved is extremely important to me and one of the main reasons I'm pursuing a career as a dentist. During my bachelor's program, I organized many community service activities with my fellow students and was commended by our program for these efforts. One particular effort was to help mentor children from disadvantaged backgrounds in the community. I took the extra effort to reach out to area schools to get an idea of the number of children in need of mentoring. Then, I developed a plan with the school administration and gathered other volunteers. While this wasn't a requirement of my program, the lives we helped will stay with me forever from this experience."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
4. Tell us about a time you were dissatisfied with the quality or outcome of your work. What did you do to rectify the situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an aspiring dental student, there will be highs and lows as you learn and develop into a self-practicing dentist. In asking this question, your interviewing team would like to get a sense of how you will handle the failures you will experience during dental school in a healthy manner by having you talk about a time you handled a situation positively in your past. Ultimately, your reaction will determine whether or not you can recover from an on-the-job disappointment.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Think about a time you were unsuccessful in your work. Your interviewers would welcome an answer that talks either about a work experience or an experience from your schooling. Briefly discuss the situation with your interviewer and describe how you reacted. Be sure to include the action steps you took to recover from the situation. Discuss what you learned from the situation at the end of your response. Then, explain how you will apply that lesson to improve the quality of your work as a dental student.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am rarely dissatisfied with my work because I keep very high standards for myself and what I deliver. With that said, I did face a tough learning situation during my undergraduate program when I turned in a paper that didn't meet my expectations. This was during a very busy semester, and I was juggling a job working 20 hours a week. After turning the paper in, I immediately regretted it, and I approached my professor to explain myself. I was very forthright in letting him know that I wasn't asking to resubmit the paper or talk my way into a higher grade. I simply wanted to take accountability for work that wasn't up to par for me. The professor greatly appreciated that I did this. If I were to join your dental school, you will quickly find that I would come with the utmost accountability for my work and my actions."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
5. Talk about a time you had to work with little to no supervision. How did you handle that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Conversely to the previous question, your foray into dental school will likely be the first time you will be working one-on-one with patients and acting as the key decision-maker with them. Your interviewing team asks this question to ensure that you would come to their training program with the ability and desire to work independently as a dental student.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about a time you were successful in your work, even when you lacked close supervision from your employer or someone in a position of authority. Then, finish your reply by asking the interviewer to describe the level of supervision that residents in this program receive. It is your responsibility to ensure that the amount of support offered in this position aligns with your own needs. At the end of your response, make a connection between your ability to work independently and how it will benefit your progress as a dental student in the program you are interviewing with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would come to your program with the ability to think on my feet and make critical decisions on my own. Growing up and into college, I worked in our family business and was often in the store on my own. I learned a lot and soaked in as much information as I could from my parents, and they trusted me to run things on my own. I would take this same approach as I enter your program. I feel well-armed with a solid knowledge base. Of course, I'm always ready to ask questions when needed and seek guidance from the experts here."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
6. Talk about a time you had to work under very close supervision. How did you handle this situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In asking this question, your interviewers want to know more about the workplace environment you desire. Keep in mind, the term 'close supervision' as a dental student means that you will be working very closely under the supervision of the faculty of this program, and your interviewing team needs to know that you will be able to work well and learn under the supervision of their staff.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
If possible, give an example of a time you worked closely with a boss, professor, or someone in a position of authority. Talk about the importance of being mentored and groomed as a new dental student and explain that you are willing and ready to be in this environment. If needed, finish your reply by asking what the student/faculty relationship is like at the institution you are interviewing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am looking forward to being trained, mentored, and supervised by the world-class staff here. A few years ago, I worked as a sous chef. For the first month, I was under very close supervision of the executive chef of the high-end restaurant. While others may have been very intimidated in this situation, I looked forward to learning from the best and honing my skills. I asked a lot of questions and took the time to watch and learn. I would take this same approach in learning from your faculty."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
7. Tell me about a time you failed. How did you get back up again with a positive attitude?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the complex world of dentistry and patient care, every dentist fails at one time or another. Your interviewing team knows that dental students in their program will fail. What is important is that their students learn from mistakes and move forward with a lesson learned and a positive attitude.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
We all fail from time to time, and there is no need to be ashamed of defeat. The magic is in the lessons we learn from these situations. Give an example of a project or task that did not turn out how you wanted it to, but you were able to recover. Perhaps you were better off in the end or learned a valuable lesson. Outline the roadblock, and share how you approached the situation. At the end of your response, discuss your level of dedication, even in the face of failure, and explain how you will make an impact on this dental school program if you were to be accepted.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"One of the biggest perceived failures that I can think of was not graduating as soon as expected with my bachelor's degree. I had detailed plans laid out and was eager to graduate in 2020. I encountered a few personal things with my family that pushed my graduation date back one year. It was a bit embarrassing at the time because of my internal drive, but I made the best of it by keeping a positive mindset. In the end, I am thankful that I could complete my degree at a comfortable pace. I finished with excellent grades as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
8. Can you talk about a time you made a good impression on a new customer or colleague. Why was it important to do so?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want evidence that you understand the foundations of building positive relationships with the patients you will be caring for at their institution. The goal of your response is to show the interviewers that you know how to make a lasting impression on patients and that your approach is the right fit for their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
First impressions are everything, and there are many ways to impact a new patient significantly. When you answer, be sure to give a detailed overview of how you would make a good impression on a new patient. If you have some work experience, consider telling a brief story of when you built a relationship with a patient, customer, or colleague. Include specific details of how you developed a relationship with this person. At the end of your response, remember to explain how your relationship-building skills will benefit the dental school you are interviewing with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"For the last two and a half years, I worked reception for a large auto dealership. In this line of work, I learned the importance of making lasting first impressions with the customers that walked through the door. Last year, a very elderly couple pulled up to our showroom and walked in looking a little lost. I greeted the couple with a smile on my face and an upbeat attitude. I began asking how I could help them. After finding out that they hadn't vehicle shopped in over 15 years, I connected them with one of our experienced sales reps and went about my day. About three hours later, they were signing papers for a new SUV, and my GM came to thank me for the service I provided. While it didn't seem like much, the couple told our sales rep that they stayed and looked at vehicles because of how they were treated from the start."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
9. Talk about a time you wish you had handled a workplace situation differently. Looking back, how would handle the situation now?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Dentistry is a world in which you will be consistently learning, growing, and adapting throughout your career. From time to time, small mistakes will happen and your interviewers need to know that you are willing and ready to learn and grow from your mistake as part of their next class of dental students.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Most people cannot handle every difficult situation with the utmost grace. No matter who you are, there is undoubtedly a work-related situation that makes you cringe a bit when you look back. Answer this question by giving a story-based example of a time you reacted to a scenario in a way that you typically try to avoid. Outline the situation and describe why you reacted the way you did. Focus on the actions that you took to repair the situation and include details about the lesson you learned.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my undergraduate program, I worked part-time as a waitress to pay my way through college. One evening, I was waiting on a very rude, intoxicated customer. The customer was saying some mean things about our staff, and I couldn't help but defend our staff and tell the customer that he was being rude and out of line. He began yelling and walked out of the restaurant, only to come back five minutes later and demand to talk to the manager. While my manager could tell that he was out of line, I had second thoughts about how I handled the situation. I typically avoid confrontation, but my emotions got the best of me that day. I feel like I do a much better job of keeping my emotions in check in situations like this now. Looking back, I should've calmly walked away from the customer and allowed my manager to step in right away like I had been trained to do."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
10. Have you ever had to build a relationship with someone who intimidated you? How did you handle that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If asked this question during your dental school interview, you can be assured that your interviewers have witnessed a student or two in their program who was intimidated by a faculty member. If the program you are interviewing with has any world-renowned dentistry faculty, becoming their mentee can be intimidating, and your interviewers want to know that you can get over the initial intimidation and build a great relationship with the person.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
When you answer, show the interviewer that you have the self-awareness to recognize when feelings of intimidation arise. One way to communicate this is by telling a brief story of a time you built a relationship with someone who intimidated you at first. Include specific details of how you developed a relationship with this person. The goal of your response is the show that you never let intimidation impact the quality of your work. At the end of your response, remember to explain how your relationship-building skills will benefit the patients, staff, and colleagues in the program you are interviewing with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I had a boss a couple of years ago who was very intimidating because of his high demands and strong personality. I feel like I can thrive working with strong personalities. However, he didn't smile very often and was a bit flat with his emotions. This was sometimes hard to navigate. I don't think he meant to be rude, so I would remind myself before speaking to him that he was human just like the rest of us. This approach helped me to communicate with him with much less intimidation."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
11. What was the most difficult decision you have had to make up to this point in your educational path?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a college graduate who has excelled in the classroom, your interviewers are confident that you will come to their dental school with great academic skills. In asking this question, your interviewers want to ensure that you would come to their training program with essential decision-making skills in addition to your knowledge base. This may be the first time you will be calling the shots with patients, and your interviewing team needs to be confident in your ability to do so.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Use an example relevant to your work or education and highlight how you approached the decision by taking the interviewer through your critical thinking and decision-making process. You should also include details of how your decision worked out for the best. At the end of your response, remember to connect your critical thinking skills and how they will benefit you in the coming years as a dental student.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"The most difficult decision that I have had to make was changing my major from education to biology and turning my career path around to be a physician. I was a second-year student and knew that the decision would push my graduation back. On top of that, I was expected to be an educator because my mom, dad, and older brother are all teachers. However, after weighing the pros and cons, I knew that this added time was well worth the overall reward. I am so happy that I chose this path because I have built some great relationships, and I'm on a path to make some very positive differences in the lives of my patients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
12. Talk about a time you were unable to meet a deadline. How did you react and what steps did you take to ensure this was communicated?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the hustle and bustle of a busy dental school program, failing to meet a deadline may happen. Your interviewing team wants to hear that you can be accountable for your actions and openly communicate the missed deadline to those that need to be aware.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Perhaps you merely underestimated the depth of the project, or maybe you faced a distraction at work. Whatever the situation was, discuss the case, what you did, and the outcome. Show the interviewer that you do not have a defeatist mentality. Nobody is perfect! The interviewers know that deadlines may pass and projects may go sideways. This is especially true in your first venture into direct patient care as a dental student. They want to know how you react despite the initial failure.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my Bachelor's program this last year, I overloaded myself with credits to finish a semester early and had been doing so for a year and a half. During my final semester, I realized that I wasn't going to be able to make a deadline for an important paper that was due. Because of my organizational skills and planning abilities, I was able to gauge my workload in the coming week and realized that I wouldn't be able to get this paper done by the deadline. I approached my professor right away and explained the situation. Because of my upfront approach and honesty, she gave me a weekend extension. From this situation, I learned that being organized helps greatly in working through deadlines. I also earned that having a difficult conversation as soon as possible can help prevent a possibly bad situation."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
13. Tell me about a time you displayed excellent leadership qualities in your work. Why are these qualities important for a future dentist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewers want to see that you are confident enough to take the initiative when the opportunity arises during your time in their dental school program. Most dental training programs don't provide formal leadership training, so your interviewers want to know that you can join their program as a natural leader. As you advance to the final years of dental school, you may be leading teams of junior students, and your interviewers will want to hear that you can lead others with success.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Describe any job, project, or learning experience in which you saw a chance to lead and took advantage of it. Talk about the success of the project and your biggest takeaway from the experience. If you have a direct work experience where you successfully led others, talk about that experience with your interviewing team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Growing up and into my college years, I was a natural leader to my peers. This is evident in my years as a team captain in the team sports I participated in. Also, when I worked in a warehouse for two years to support my college tuition, I took the initiative to be a leader on my team. During one shift, we had three coworkers call in sick, and we were very short-staffed. I divided up the work among the team and checked in with everyone on an hourly basis to ensure we would hit our team goals for the shift. When one team member needed to pick up their pace, I made a fun game to see if they could catch up over the next two hours and used positive reinforcement with them. In the end, we all busted our tails and got the job done."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
14. Tell me about a time you had to work with someone who was difficult to get along with. How did you work in harmony with them?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your dental school interviewers want to know how well you get along with others, despite personality or work style differences because you will be working with many different personality types as a dentist. Show the interviewer that you can work with challenging individuals without confrontation. Show that you can work effectively with any personality or work style differences you will surely encounter as their next dental student.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Focus on a time your work style was different from another person's, but you still had to complete a project together. Discuss in a positive tone how you made the situation work. Outline your ability to be a team player and build a connection with others, even if their personality or approach is different from yours. At the end of your response, be sure to connect your communication abilities and level of professionalism and how these factors will benefit you as a dental student with the program you are interviewing with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my undergraduate program, I had a group project during which one team member was combative to new ideas and overbearing when it came to giving direction to the group. In this situation, I didn't hesitate to give my feedback directly to him one-on-one. I didn't want to single him out in front of the group, so I thought a direct conversation was the best environment to let them know how the entire group felt. I learned that open communication was essential in resolving the issue. In dental school, I know that I will be working with other dentists, hygienists, and other support staff for the first time, and some personalities will be difficult to work with at times. I'm confident that my direct and personable approach with all colleagues will help me throughout my career as a dentist."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
15. Talk about a time you had to make a decision without all the information you needed. What critical steps did you take in this situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
For maybe the first time in your life, you will be faced with critical patient decisions daily. These decisions may involve the care of a patient, and your sound judgment will be critical for great outcomes. At some point during your dental school interview, your interviewers will want to hear more about your critical thinking skills when you may not have all of the information you need.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Think about a time during your path to this interview when you needed to make a decision without all of the information you would typically possess. Then, tell a story that outlines the situation and how you approached coming to a conclusion. Outline your ability to think critically and independently to prove to your interviewers that you will make an outstanding resident at their institution. At the end of your response, be sure to make a connection between your decision-making abilities and how they will help you make an impact as a dental student and future dentist.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my undergraduate program, I was involved in a group project in an anatomy class with another great student. We split some duties of the project for the first half of the project and then put all of it together in the end. On the day we were scheduled to meet, I got an email from the student, and he let me know that his mother was very sick and that he had to travel back home on short notice. Knowing that this was a dire situation for him, I moved forward with the remainder of the project on my own. I didn't have his part of the research when I finished, so I took extra time to complete his part of the research on the project and submitted the finished product on behalf of both of us. Our professor was very forgiving of his situation and let him submit an extra research paper to make up for his lost time."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
16. When have you shown passion in your work or anything else you did in life?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Success in dentistry comes from a passion and desire to provide the best care possible to the patients you see on regular basis. As they consider you as one of the candidates to join their dental training program, your interviewers want to get a sense that you bring a drive and passion in all that you do.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your dental school interview process, put some thought into some examples of times you've shown passion, dedication, and desire in your past, and come to your interview prepared to talk about one of those times. Ensure that your example proves your passion and desire and how you translated that into a win or success. Any way you answer, ensure that your interviewers walk away from your time together knowing that you are a passionate and dedicated future dental student.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I pride myself on my ability to give anything I set out to do my entire mind, heart, and soul. This value was instilled in me by my father at a very young age. Growing up in Scouts, FBLA, and other organizations, my passion for my hobbies grew. During my undergraduate program, I took the initiative to reach out to and shadow three different dentists from my hometown over the summer and holiday breaks. Knowing that dental school was in my future, I wanted to begin to learn the day-to-day work of a dentist to begin pursuing this dream."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
17. Talk about a time you used good judgement and logic to solve a problem.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In dental school, your ability to use judgment and logic to solve real-world patient problems on your own will be put to the test. Your answer will assure your interviewers of your ability to do this if you join their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
As you prepare for your dental school interviews, think of a few real-life examples that showcase your logic and reasoning abilities. Share a brief overview of the problem you faced, discuss the pros and cons of each decision you could have made, and tell the interviewers why the solution you chose was the best. Include details of the positive impact you generated by using strong judgment. The goal of your response is to assure the interviewers that you approach issues with care and logic so they will be confident in your ability to use this same logic in their training program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Whether for a simple cleaning or critical oral procedure, effectively treating patients comes down to a dentist's problem-solving abilities, and I'm confident that my use of solid judgment will make me a confident dentist. During my undergraduate program, I worked in a small retail store just off campus, and one weekend afternoon, our POS system went down. My first course of action was to call the store owner to let them know what was happening. Then, I called the help desk number for the system, and my coworker began manually accepting cash and handwriting receipts for customer transactions. We knew that shutting down the shop on a busy weekend wasn't an option, so some extra effort was needed on our part. In the end, the system was back up and running in about an hour, and our quick thinking made the situation a success."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
18. Talk about a time you had to adapt to major change. How did you cope, and why do you think being adaptable is important as a dental student?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Overall, healthcare is experiencing more rapid changes today than it has over the past 100 years, and this is especially true in dentistry and oral care. Your ability to handle and adapt to change with ease will be vital as a dental student. In asking this question, your interviewers want to know that you can embrace change and see it as an opportunity for overall improvement.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Pick an example of a time you faced a change, either in your schooling or the workplace, and responded constructively. Explain how the change directly impacted you and tell the interviewers how you maintained a positive approach during the transition. No matter what example you use, reiterate that you fully understand that your future success as a physician will be reliant on your ability to change with the times to provide the best care possible to your patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"With technology constantly improving and changes to healthcare regulations always shifting, I know that I will have to be open and willing to adapt my work as a dentist. Throughout my later high school years and during my undergraduate program, I worked for a grocery chain in several different roles. Two years ago, the chain was bought out by a regional chain, and with that buy-out came a lot of changes to the work. The biggest change for most of the staff was a new point of sale system, and this was for good reason. The current system was a major part of our workday. Looking back, my ability to handle this change came down to a simple positive attitude and willingness to learn and master the new system. I saw too many colleagues have a poor attitude about the whole situation, and my manager commended me for my positivity."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
19. What would you say is the riskiest decision you have made in your educational path so far?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Taking calculated and well-thought-out risks during your dental training will be encouraged by the staff you train with. Your mentors in dental school will be experienced professionals who know that climbing out of your comfort zone and taking a risk or two allows you to grow as a future dentist. The interviewers want to know how you approach making risky decisions and want to hear you talk about a time that you did just this.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Before the start of your dental school interviews, put some serious thought into what you would consider the biggest risk you have taken in your life. Start with an overview of the decision you needed to make and explain why it was risky. Describe who the situation impacted as well as the outcomes. Complete your answer by sharing how your decision paid off or mention any recognition you received for your success. The goal of your response is to show the interviewers that you can analyze a situation and that you understand the importance of making well-calculated decisions, even if there is some risk involved.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"In all honesty, I would consider the riskiest decision so far to be the decision to step away from the family business to pursue a career in dentistry. My parents have owned a small chain of restaurants ever since my siblings and I were young, and it was always an expectation that we would all continue that tradition and keep the business growing and thriving. As the youngest of three kids, I watched my older brother and sister go on to learn the business and run their own. From a young age, I was washing dishes, bussing tables, and cooking in the back. But my passion for science and caring for others drove me through school, and though I always feared backlash from my parents for not carrying on their family tradition, they couldn't have been more proud of my decision to do my own thing. The risk I took was breaking out of my comfort zone, and I couldn't be happier with my decision."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
20. Talk about a time you thrived in a competitive environment. How did you handle it, and how will you bring this same mindset to dental school?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A question like this will be asked for two distinct reasons. First and foremost, some dental schools are highly competitive to get into because the demand among prospective students is so high. Training can also be highly competitive in the pursuit of achieving accolades down the road. The interviewers want to determine if you function well in a competitive environment.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Tell the interviewers about a specific time you faced a competitive situation. Be sure to explain how you react in the face of competition. Discuss the actions you took to ensure healthy competition and include details of the stand-out results you generated. The goal of your answer is to show the interviewers that you can rise to a challenge and that you are excited to push yourself to be the best student possible in your time with their program. You should also highlight your desire to maintain healthy competition by cheering others on along the way.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"Throughout my youth and into my teenage years, I participated in the highly competitive world of figure skating. I learned from a young age that making it to state and national competitions took dedication to the craft and a focused mindset. I also prided myself on my sportsmanship along the way by cheering for my competition and encouraging them. I learned how to handle the wins with grace and the losses with class. These are all lessons that I've brought with me on my journey through college and now into dental school."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
21. When have you had to make a split second decision? How do you react under unexpected pressure?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While your experience in the classroom up to this point may have mentally prepared you for life as a dentist, your time in dental school will expose you to the pressure-packed situations that come with being a dentist. For the first time, you will be responsible for the direct care of patients, and your interviewing team needs to be assured that you are confident and comfortable in your ability to work under pressure.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Answer this question by telling the interviewers about a specific time you had to make a split-second decision and made the right choice, despite being under unexpected pressure. Outline the situation, describe the last-minute decision you were required to make, and explain how you came to your final decision. Be sure to tell the interviewers that you made a well-calculated decision despite being under pressure. Give as much detail as you can regarding how you weighed the pros and cons of the decision. If your final decision made a measurable impact, be sure to discuss the results you generated.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I thrive in high-pressure situations and appreciate that these situations will now become real as I enter dental school. My level-headed thinking and calm demeanor allow me to react well in high-pressure situations. Before my undergraduate studies, I worked for one year as an ER Tech. I quickly learned that no two days are the same when providing care to patients, and you have to be prepared for any situation. On what I thought was a routine Sunday morning shift, we were suddenly overloaded with many critically injured patients from a bus accident. While the nursing staff performed, one patient began showing signs of shock, and I made the quick decision to get an IV started. The other staff was busy, so I knew getting a head start could make a big difference for this patient. I was later praised for my quick actions that day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
22. Talk about a time when you had to learn something new within a short deadline. How will this experience help you in dental school?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Throughout your dental schooling, the amount of knowledge and skills that you learn, develop, and master is difficult to comprehend right now. In asking this question, your interviewers want assurance that you can learn new skills under pressure and put them to use quickly in the direct care of patients during your time in their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Throughout your interview, you'll want to show your interviewers that you are willing to put in the time and effort to learn every new skill possible. Think about a time you learned a new task or responsibility with little advanced notice. Discuss your diligence and the actions you took to learn the content, task, or responsibility within a short timeline, and explain to your interviewers why undertaking this was vital. Be sure to talk about your ability to be a quick learner and why this is important as you begin dental school.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am eager to learn from and train with some of the best dentists and educators at your institution. If fortunate enough to be accepted into your program, I would bring a positive attitude and open mind, ready to learn new skills and put them to use right away. My ability to learn and apply new things quickly is evident from my experience working as a Pharmacy Tech during college. My employer converted to an entirely digital system for dispensing medications. I had to read all training materials on the system and attend several hands-on training with our entire staff in the few short days before the system was implemented. I asked a lot of clarification questions and requested the chance to work hands-on with the new system before it went live."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
23. Tell me about a time you worked with a person who did things very differently than you. How did you collaborate effectively with them?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Since everyone's work style is unique, it can be challenging to collaborate with everyone 100% of the time. The interviewers want assurance that you would join their dental school as a team player, regardless of personality or work style differences that you would face with your future student colleagues and staff of the program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
The goal of your response is to describe your approach to collaborating with others while highlighting how your collaboration style will be a good match for the dental program you are interviewing with. Tell the interviewers about a specific time you worked with someone who approached their tasks or communication style differently than you. Outline the situation, and describe why it was a challenge to collaborate with this person. Focus on the specific actions you took to ensure a successful collaboration.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I spent three years working as a waiter at a high-end restaurant in my college town. During that time, I worked with another wait staff member who was very demanding and, at times, rude to staff. Their rude demands were hard to handle at times. To work as part of an effective team with this person, I learned to keep a smile on my face and use humor to help them relax a bit when things got hectic on the floor."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
24. Talk about a time you had to work with a new technology. What did you do to gain proficiency as quickly as possible?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Technology in modern dentistry has evolved in recent years and will continue to evolve year after year. While you may be academically gifted, your interviewers need to get a sense that you would come to their dental school with the ability to pick up and master any new technologies in the field over your time there. Your venture into dental school will likely require you to work with many pieces of equipment you haven't worked with in the past.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Think of a time you had to learn new technology. Your example should demonstrate your ability to study, learn, and master its use in short order. As you answer, explain to your interviewing team that you know you will be learning and mastering new dental equipment and technologies and that you are willing and ready to learn any new technologies thrown your way during your time with them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I want you to know that I would come to your program with the understanding that today's dentists need to embrace technology to provide the best patient care possible. I've always been enamored by the great technological advancements in dentistry over the years. More recent innovations, like 3D printing for dental implants, are such a great technology. I am very technologically adept. Over the last two years, I worked part-time with a medical device manufacturing company to pay my way through schooling, and during my first week on the job, I had to learn and master two plastics machines. I observed more experienced staff and went right to work with hands-on learning."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
25. Talk about a time you felt like you could have communicated better. What did you learn from that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Patient-centered communication and strong interpersonal skills are vital to the success of any dentist, and your interviewers need to be assured that you will join their program as a great communicator. Assure them that you are aware of your shortcomings and willing to learn from them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, think of a time you could have communicated to someone better. The situation you describe should show that you learned a lesson and took action to make the situation right. No matter how you answer, make sure your interviewers walk away from your time together knowing that you are cognizant of the fact that your communication skills are important as a dental student and that you will take every conversation at their institution seriously.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my Bachelor's degree program, I worked on a group project with a team member that wasn't doing their fair share of the work. After our initial meeting and planning to discuss how we would tackle the project, the four of us agreed on how we would divide and conquer the work, and we planned to meet up again in two weeks to set the rest of our work plan in motion. At that second meeting, a member of our group admitted that she hadn't gotten any work done, and I immediately got angry and let her know that she had put the entire project in jeopardy in front of our other two team members. Following some exchange of words, she cried, apologized, and asked how she could make it up. After I took some time to cool off and listen to the whole story, I regretted the way I communicated and apologized. In this situation, I learned the importance of listening to the whole story and taking a step back to analyze things before I let my emotions get the best of me."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
26. Talk about a time when you successfully educated someone on a complex topic. How did you ensure the information was understood?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Patient education is an essential skill to master during your time in residency. If asked this question during your interview process, your interviewing team will want to hear that you have a knack for educating others.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Think about a time you educated someone on a complex topic, and walk your interviewers through your process. Keep in mind that for a dental student, utilizing available technology can be very useful when teaching. Customizing your approach based on the person's learning style is also important. Ensure that your interviewers walk away from your time together knowing that you value and emphasize patient education.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"During the fourth year of my undergraduate program in Biomedical Sciences, a professor asked if I would tutor some of the freshmen and sophomores who were struggling in their chemistry classes. This was a great opportunity to hone my skills in teaching difficult topics. I taught one particular pair of students the concept of thermodynamics using a step-by-step learning approach. While this approach seemed slow to me, I could see their progress, and they were able to apply it to their coursework after just a couple of days."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
27. Have you ever had to communicate difficult or bad news to someone? How did you handle this situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Effective communication and interpersonal skills are key for any dentist. At times, having difficult conversations with patients, and colleagues is part of the job. Your interviewers want to ensure that you would join their program with the ability to communicate effectively with all staff, faculty, and colleagues you would be working with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about a time you had to deliver difficult or bad news to someone, and be sure to focus on your ability to stay level-headed and respectful in that communication. As you answer, talk about the importance of tone, body language, and the words that you used in this situation to deliver the communication effectively. No matter how you answer, ensure that your interviewers walk away from your time together knowing that you are a great verbal communicator that they'd be bringing aboard their dental school program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"In the job I had during my undergraduate years, I was promoted to shift manager and held that title for a year and a half. This manager experience helped me develop my communication skills, and I had to have difficult conversations a few times. I always think back to the time I had to put a team member on a performance improvement plan. What made this a difficult conversation was that the person was my friend. The first important thing I did was not put off or avoid the conversation and scheduled it right away. I came into our meeting prepared with data about why performance needed to be improved, laid out the plan of action, and then reinforced that I was confident in their ability to pick things up on the job. Looking back, I think that preparation was key to having this conversation."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
28. Talk about a role you've held where attention to detail was necessary. What did you learn in this role that you can bring to dental school?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Strict attention to detail is a vital skill for a dentist to have. The routine checking of teeth requires inspecting every last detail of the teeth and gums, and a missed detail could lead to depriving a patient of a critical treatment that they need. In asking a question like this, your interviewers want to know that you would join their dental school with a keen eye for detail.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your dental school interviews, think of a time paying close attention to details was critical in the success of your work or project. Then, talk about that experience and walk through the 'how' and 'why' you paid such close attention to those details. Reiterate to your interviewers that you fully understand the importance of this as you enter dental school and a career in dentistry.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I've volunteered at our church quite a bit over the past two years, and some of the duties that I've been given have required precise attention to detail. On days of service, I count the money collected and prepare a deposit for the secretary on Monday. I also track the total amount in a program. This duty requires detail in counting a large sum of paper bills and change and sorting everything for the deposit. Coming into dental school with your program, I know that attention to detail is important in my studies and work with patients, and I would come to your program ready and willing to do this."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
29. Give an example of a time your manual dexterity helped you in a tight situation. Why do you think this is important as a dental student?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
One skill that is vital to the success of any dentist that is very hard for your interviewers to measure during interview processes is manual dexterity. Dentistry involves precise movements and coordination in a very small workspace inside a person's mouth. Since your interviewers can't assess this during the interview process, they may ask a question like this to hear you talk about your dexterity skills and that you understand they are important for a future dentist.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
During your Dental Admission Test, your manual dexterity was likely tested. Now, your interviewers want to hear how you are fine-tuning your motor skills. Some things you can talk about are drawing, painting, carving, knitting, or learning a musical instrument that requires hand-eye coordination. The list of things you can talk about is endless, so talk about the importance of keeping these skills throughout your career as a dentist as your answer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel very blessed to have been born with great manual dexterity skills, and I'm confident in my ability to work with precision inside of a patient's mouth. Over the last five years, I've continued to hone my skills in this area by taking up sketching and knitting. Knowing that dentistry was my passion and my future, I was advised that developing these skills and keeping them sharp would be very important to my success."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
30. Talk about any business experience you have. Why do you feel this is important on your journey to becoming a dentist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Becoming a practicing dentist requires some business skills and knowledge, especially when it comes to practice management, finance, legal, and marketing. While most dental schools do provide some business acumen and practice management training, your interviewers ask this question to gauge any prior business experience you would bring as a student in their dental school.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
How to Answer
Briefly and openly talk about any business experiences you have had throughout your life. This can include simple retail experience from a job you may have held during high school or college. If you don't have a vast amount of business knowledge, that is okay. If that is the case, reiterate to your team of interviewers that you understand the need for further training in the business principles that are important in a dental practice.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"In all honesty, the only business experience I have coming into dental school is my work experience with a large grocery chain for three years and some general business and finance classes from my undergraduate program. I am confident in my abilities to learn and master the required coursework in your program that will help me prepare for practice management as a dentist down the road."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 15th, 2022