How do you feel about educating patients on proper oral care?
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.
"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."
"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."
"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."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I love to educate my patients about oral health. But I like to listen to what's their habit first before I make any comments. I would praise the part they are doing great and also make recommendations on what needs to be improved. And let the patient's self-lead to find the best solutions that work for them, Eg: flossing. The most important thing is that they can intake the message and show improvements at the next visit.
Rachelle's Feedback
Your approach is respectful and understanding, which your patients will certainly appreciate! Very good response.
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