"During my dental school training, the faculty I trained with were great about training me in common cases of general dental malpractice. Over the last year, I've started to read and ask more questions about malpractice in oral surgery. I understand that the most common cases involve tooth extractions and infections that can follow. Knowing that most mistakes are caused by not paying attention to the administration of anesthesia or patient notes, I am always diligent in paying attention to every detail with a patient. I know this will be important in training as an oral surgeon. If I ever face a situation like this, having detailed records and learning from the situation would be most important."

Before your oral surgery residency interviews, research the types of malpractice claims common for practicing oral surgeons and come to your interview prepared to discuss them. Describe how you would take all preventative measures to ensure that every patient you work with is cared for with a safe and empathetic approach.