What do you feel is the single most important quality a dental resident should possess?
Your interviewers will want to hear candidates talk about their knowledge of success in dental residency training and putting success into practice eventually. Your answer to this question indicates that you are aware of what this role entails. Your interviewers will also likely assume that you possess the quality that you choose.
"I firmly believe that the foundation for success in any dental residency is a strong desire to learn and succeed. Each year, a huge crop of dental school graduates hits the workforce in the dentistry world. A select few have the drive to continue to develop their skills and go further in their career, and I don't think you will find a more motivated resident to train in orthodontics than me."
This is an opportunity to give a unique answer and sell yourself to your interviewers, so dig deeper than "strong attention to detail" or "strong communication skills." Some potential ideas could include an unrelenting drive to succeed, a strong sense of accountability, a high amount of respect/integrity, or confidence in your ability to succeed. Speak with confidence and passion as you sell yourself in your answer to this question.