30 Situational Interview Questions for a Dental School Interview
Below is a list of our Situational 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. You just finished a routine cleaning with a patient and are heading in to see your next patient. As you enter the patient's room with the medication, describe the first thing you do to prevent patient infection.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Dental patients are at significant risk of picking up an infection as a consequence of the care they are receiving. Although infection prevention measures have greatly improved over the years, the risk still exists, and dental professionals must be vigilant to prevent infections and sickness among staff and patients. Your interviewers want to know that you understand the importance of handwashing before coming in contact with a new patient.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Although it may seem obvious, the simple task of handwashing is the first step in infection prevention. To effectively answer this question, explain that the first step you would take to prevent infection would be to wash your hands thoroughly. Talk about any formal infection prevention training you may have received in the past, and reiterate that you would always take the necessary measures to keep patients safe. Be sure to point out the importance of using PPE and safely managing all care equipment.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"The first thing I would do to prevent the patient from getting sick or infected is to wash my hands. There are other actions I would need to take to prevent infection, but handwashing is primary. Because dental work involves the mouth, dental patients can be prone to many sicknesses and I am ready to do my part to help prevent this. On top of handwashing, I would always wear surgical gloves and a mask when directly performing work on a patient."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
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2. If you had too many things on your to-do list, how would you decide which to do first and which to postpone?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As you enter the fast-paced world of dental school, this will be the first time you will be managing a full patient load. You'll also be going through rigorous academic training in your initial years in the program. At times, the work may become very overwhelming, and your interviewers want to be assured that you would join their program with the tools to prioritize your work during your time with them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
As you answer this question, there are a couple of things that your interviewers will want to hear. Taking the time to organize your day by doing the most important patient tasks first frees up time later. Sometimes, it is helpful to delegate to others when possible, but it's never acceptable to allow patient-care-related work to go undone because there wasn't time. Talk about your ability to be efficient in your classwork and your future work with patients. Finally, to get at the heart of the question, let your interviewers know that you would prioritize the most critical patient items before moving on to other tasks throughout your day.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel very fortunate to have worked in a couple of very high-paced and busy settings during high school and college. My four-year Bachelor's program was very intense and required an innate ability to prioritize and stay organized. Prioritizing work came down to my ability to know my workload, track it, and continuously reprioritize what tasks were most important. As a student of your dental program, I would use this same philosophy when prioritizing a difficult academic load and a large patient load. I would come here with the ability to build a strong rapport with support staff and be able to delegate tasks that I needed help with."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
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3. You are consulting with a patient that has a tooth knocked out from a fall. Her male companion answers questions for her, and she barely makes eye contact. How do you get the patient to answer independently?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a dentist in training, you have to be prepared for worst-case scenarios, and a patient who is involved in domestic abuse is one of those scenarios. Your interviewers are not only looking to hear how you would handle getting the patient to talk, but also how you would handle reporting the situation. Some states also require dentists to be mandatory reporters of domestic violence, so you should read up on the state you are interviewing in.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Sometimes a domestic abuse victim's only connection to help might be a trip to see their physician or dentist. All patients should be screened for abuse, whether man, woman, or child. As the potential physician in charge, you need to know the warning signs, learn how to assess a situation, and ask effective questions. As you answer this question, reiterate the need for separating the couple during your examination so you can ask the right questions and allow her to speak openly. From there, talk about any reporting protocols that you are familiar with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I would separate the potential abuse victim from the abuser, though I understand that it may be difficult in a dental office. I would first ask him to leave the room and go to the waiting room. If he balked, I would ask a hygienist to take her to another room for x-rays alone. I would be careful not to prejudge the situation, but I would do what I needed to do to assess the potential abuse victim thoroughly. I would seek guidance from a faculty member in this situation, and I wouldn't hesitate to escalate the situation if needed."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
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4. A dental student colleague left their computer open with sensitive information on the screen. You are the only one in the shared office. How would you address this with them?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Patient confidentiality and HIPAA regulations apply to dentistry, and leaving a computer open, even to run to the bathroom for a minute, risks a serious breach of patient confidentiality. Your team of interviewers needs to be assured that any student entering into their training program has integrity and would do the right thing in this situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
You should not see protected information on a patient that you are not personally taking care of. Leaving a computer wide open is a serious risk to confidentiality. Tell your interviewers that you would gently close or lock the computer so that the screen is not visible and discuss the seriousness of this when your colleague returns. No matter how you answer, make sure that your interviewers walk away from your time together knowing that you would do what is necessary to protect the PHI of any patient of their institution.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I would immediately close or lock the computer, and I would not look at the information on the screen. If I wasn't sure where the coworker was or when he or she left, I would be compelled to report it to a faculty member because someone could have accessed the information. It's a tough call and may cause some tension with my colleague, but as a dental student, I must do what is best for the patient to protect their information."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
5. What kinds of review questions would you ask yourself after dealing with a difficult or challenging patient situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
All dental students want to have positive and impactful interactions every day, but this is not always a reality. Sometimes in patient care, situations can go awry quickly. Your interviewers know that t's important to reflect as an individual or a team and learn how to improve.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
It's human nature to rationalize or justify and not face the difficult feelings or emotions of a situation gone bad, but reflection is necessary to prevent the situation from happening again. Talk to your interviewers about the importance of analyzing a situation and reflecting upon it to improve moving forward. If you have an example of a time you did this in any prior jobs or training, don't hesitate to talk about it with your interviewers.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"As a dental student, taking time to reflect at the end of each day would be extremely important to learn and grow. This reflection will include speaking with the faculty and my student colleagues to learn together from our experiences. In a very challenging situation, I think it would be vital to distance myself from emotions and review things logically later on. I would first ask how I could've handled the situation better and look for other insight. Then, I would ask myself how I will handle a similar situation in the future so I am mentally prepared for it."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
6. How would you handle a situation during dental school in which a faculty member rejected an idea you pitched?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It's difficult to be rejected in any way. As a dental student who is still learning, it can be especially difficult. Your interviewers know that the coming years will be a time of growth and learning for all of the future dentists in their program. They want to hear that you can take a potentially negative situation like this and turn it into a positive experience that will allow you to grow and learn.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Explain to your interviewers that you will take the feedback from the faculty member and learn their perspective. Then, talk about your ability to process the new knowledge and explain how you will take that knowledge and move forward positively.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I honestly wouldn't take it personally because I see dental school as a time to learn and grow into a true professional. I would go back and ask for feedback on my idea and be grateful for the feedback. If I still thought it was a great idea, I would review how I explained it, simplify and reorganize the information, and ask for another opportunity to present. I once heard that Walt Disney applied to 302 banks before he got the loan for Disney Land, so I try to remember that success doesn't always happen right away. I would want to know what I did right and what I could improve upon and then learn from the rejection."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
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7. Give an example of how you may connect and find common ground with a patient to gain understanding.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
All patients are different and come from different backgrounds and life experiences. Sometimes a patient will have biases and reject you as a competent individual, especially as a dental student who is young in their training. Learning how to connect and find common ground with a patient quickly can improve patient outcomes, and your interviewing team wants to ensure that you would come to their program with the ability to build connections with the patients you will be working with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
You can always find something in common with another person. It could be the weather, a comment on a crossword they are completing, admiration for their turquoise necklace, or anything authentic and sincere to build a bridge or connection. It doesn't have to be a colossal sharing of souls, but just looking quickly for similarities with patients can have a real impact on your work as a dental student and future dentist. Talk to your interviewers about your ability to connect and build a rapport with your patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I try to establish conversational rapport with each patient and humanize our interaction. I want to be seen as a professional and a competent dental student but also as a warm and caring human being. I don't think idle chitchat is helpful overall, but I do believe an authentic comment about a picture of their dog or maybe the sweater they are wearing can result in more personalized conversations and stronger trust. I love talking about local culture and events, so talking to patients about the season, their hobbies, and their interests are techniques that I would use to connect with them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
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8. Describe a situation in which it may be appropriate to use humor in the classroom or workplace.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Caring for dental patients is typically not funny business, and someone who cracks jokes under dire circumstances may have their humor rejected. There is a time for humor in dentistry, but it must be mindful. Your interviewers pose a question like this to know that you would join their dental school with a bit of professional fun while also ensuring that you do so in a tactful manner.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
If humor is used, it should be very mild and universal. It's a good policy to be kind, tolerant, professional, and compassionate with your patients. Laugh at a patient's joke, if appropriate, and acknowledge a patient's attempt to be cheerful, but follow rather than lead with humor, and only support, chuckle, or smile at anything that would be universally accepted. Some people poke fun at themselves, but sometimes, it's a self-esteem issue, so it's best to avoid playing along.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"In the classroom, I learn best when I am interacting with others and having fun. Because of this, I wouldn't hesitate to use humor with my fellow students in a classroom setting. While working in practice with patients, there would always be room for smiling and a laugh with a patient to brighten their day, but this must always be done with tact and good judgment. I also feel that humor should be encouraged among the students in any dental program to help them get through stressful times. If I were fortunate enough to join your program, I would look forward to building great relationships that would last the rest of my career."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
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9. As a dental student responsible for the direct care and treatment plan for your patients, how would you handle a patient that does not do what is necessary for their treatment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a new dental student that has put some serious thought into pursuing this career, you deeply care about patients and their outcomes. So it's difficult sometimes to recognize when we over-function for patients and do not encourage them to be their best. Doing too much for patients is as damaging as doing too little. Your interviewers will want to hear that you can perform the subtle dance between empathy and advocacy for patients helping themselves.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
When dealing with patients, you should encourage without being demeaning or harsh, but you also need to push them to do what they can for themselves in every situation possible. A weight lifter doesn't bench press 200 pounds overnight but rather adds weight little by little. Each time a patient takes the time to floss or brush twice a day, it adds to their dental health. Describe to your interviewers how you would encourage and empower your patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I would come to your program fully understanding that every patient is different and that some won't comply with recommended treatment plans. In situations like this, I would continue educating the patient about why oral care is important and the benefits that come with compliance. I also wouldn't hesitate to use subtle scare tactics like showing pictures of tooth decay or periodontal disease to get the point across."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
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10. How would you handle someone asking you for dental care advice or diagnosis validation outside the workplace?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This can be a difficult challenge for a dental student who will gain a lot of knowledge throughout dental school and will begin applying that knowledge for the first time. While it's easy and ego-boosting to become the 'expert' with family and friends, it can backfire. Ideally, your interviewers will want to hear that you would always recommend your friends or acquaintances to see their dentist for any urgent matters and a thorough examination and testing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Let your interviewers know that, while you may give a quick opinion on oral care and hygiene to a family member or friend, you would always recommend them to see their dentist for any matters that may be serious. Reiterate that you know that we live in a very litigious society and that you aren't willing to jeopardize your license (or reputation) by giving quick dental advice for something that could be serious.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I would do my best to gauge if it was a serious condition, and if it was, I would recommend they be seen at urgent care or the ER as soon as possible. If the question was not serious, I might give them a quick opinion and recommend that they see their PCP for further diagnosis."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
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11. How would you change your communication style if a patient or their family was having trouble understanding what you were trying to tell them?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The best dentists are teachers who instruct patients on difficult concepts and challenging instructions. This effort starts with the dentist caring for the patient. Your interviewers want to hear that you value and prioritize patient education and have the communication skills necessary to do so.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
First, your interviewers want to hear that you would be cognizant of your audience when discussing critical information with patients and their family members. Talk about how you would ensure that your audience fully understands what you tell them and how you would adjust the conversation based on the audience. Then, discuss how poor comprehension comes with poor patient outcomes, increased financial ramifications for patients, and decreased patient satisfaction.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"During a situation in which a patient or their family didn't understand me, I would explain things in a much simpler manner for them and ask questions so I could effectively gauge their understanding. Dental professionals are very fortunate to understand and grasp the complexities of oral issues, but a majority of the general population simply does not. My goal as a dental student is to ensure that my patients are believers in their care plan and ready to move forward with it when they go home."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
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12. How would you handle being asked to do a dental procedure or task that you were unfamiliar with and uncomfortable handling?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As you enter dental school, you will be tackling many new procedures and tasks in practice that you haven't completed before. In proposing a question like this, your interviewers will be looking to hear that you would take a collaborative and learning approach and that you aren't afraid to ask for help when you know your shortcomings.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
This is not the time to say that you would jump in with both feet and potentially risk the safety and wellbeing of a patient. Your interviewers are not looking for someone who just jumps when someone says jump but someone willing to jump with confidence and competence. Your job is to provide an answer that illustrates this difference. In your answer, talk about your willingness to ask for help and learn in the process as a dental student entering their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I would come to your dental school confident in my knowledge and skills, but I also know that I will be tackling some things that will be very new to me. When faced with this situation, I wouldn't hesitate to ask a senior student or faculty member for guidance. My goal is to leave dental school with the skills necessary to be a confident and competent dentist, and I greatly look forward to these learning opportunities with your program."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
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13. As a dental student in our program, how would you explain a complex task to someone using verbal instructions?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your team of interviewers wants to find future students for their program who can be world-class educators. You will be responsible for teaching patients and junior dental students. A question like this allows your interviewers to see how you handle educating someone in a complex task or procedure using only verbal instruction.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
The field of dentistry is becoming increasingly complex, so it makes sense that the instructions can be as well. This question provides a chance to showcase your ability to take a complicated idea and explain it without losing integrity, so be sure to walk your interviewers through your step-by-step approach to ensure that the complicated subject is understood by your audience.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I read once that most newspapers are written at a 5th-grade level so that most people can understand the message. I think that we are inundated with verbal and written messages, and what we choose to say should be prime real estate. Because of that, I choose not to use filler or fluff words and to instead speak in a way that the patient can understand. I fully understand that, as a dental student in your program, I will be relied upon to educate patients and fellow students down the road, and I'm very excited to do this. If I had to explain something complicated, I would take a simplistic and step-by-step approach with the person. I would stop along the way to ensure they can repeat what I'm teaching them and use language and terms that best suit their educational level."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
14. What tools or techniques will you use to remember difficult information or instructions given verbally to you by our faculty when you are directly caring for patients?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a dental student, you will work with some of the best and brightest faculty in your specialty and will be expected to learn from them on a daily basis. Your interviewers want to hear that you are ready and willing to learn, grow, and prosper in your time with them and that you have a plan for retaining all that you learn as a resident with them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, put some thought into how you plan to retain what you learn from the faculty you will be working with during your dental training. Your interviewers want to hear that you have techniques and tools in place to do this, so be sure to talk about the things you use to learn and retain information for later use. You can also talk about how you successfully navigated your way through your undergraduate program before dental school.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I'm so excited to learn from your great faculty and put all that I learn into practice. I'd come to your program knowing that I have a lifetime of learning ahead of me as a dentist. I found during my Bachelor's degree program that keeping notes in a journal helps me learn and master concepts, but putting them into practice is what truly helps me retain the information, and that has me so excited to join a world-class dental school like yours."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
15. Imagine the clinic is extremely busy, and you requested that a hygienist walk a patient through at home care instructions. Ten minutes later, the patient has yet to be seen, and they are upset about it. Tell me how you proceed.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As your interviewing team is looking for candidates who can have crucial conversations with staff and take charge when needed. In a situation like this, they'll want to hear that you won't hesitate to talk to the appropriate staff and give direction succinctly and professionally.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
To effectively answer this question, talk about how you would put the patient at ease and work to ensure they will be seen soon. Then, discuss how you would approach the hygienist and instruct them to see the patient as soon as possible. No matter how you answer, ensure that your interviewing team walks away confident in your ability to have direct and difficult conversations with the support staff you would be working with as a dental student in their program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I would first reassure the patient that their exit instructions were very important and that I would ensure that they are instructed as soon as possible. Upon leaving the room, I would approach the hygienist, let them know of the situation with the patient, and remind them of my request to instruct the patient. My conversation with them would be professional and would reiterate why walking through personal care instructions with the patient was important to their care. In the end, I would ensure that either myself or one of the hygienists talked with the patient to give them a timeline for when they would be seen again."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
16. When you start treating patients directly, how will you handle a new situation that you are unfamiliar with?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Training as a dental student will put you into new situations daily, especially when you are caring for and treating patients for the first time. In asking this question, your interviewing team wants to hear that you can walk a fine line between diving into a situation head-on and asking for help when necessary.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interviewer, put some serious thought into which situations you would feel comfortable in learning with a hands-on approach and which situations you would feel uncomfortable with. Come to your interview prepared to discuss this comfort level.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"My first concern would be the safety of the patient in a situation like this. When confronted with a new situation during a routine cleaning, I wouldn't hesitate to jump in while leaning on a faculty member or senior student for feedback. That said, I would never jump into something that could potentially harm a patient if I were to make a mistake. In a situation like this, I would seek out a faculty member or precepting dentist to help me work through the situation so I could learn from them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
17. As dental student in our program, let's say you are caring for a patient who is being sent home with PTFE floss. Upon asking the patient if they know how to use it, they reluctantly say, "Yes, I do." Tell me how you proceed.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewers are asking this question to determine if you would ensure the patient understands how to use the floss you are sending them home with, rather than simply taking the patient's word for it. Because dental patients can be embarrassed by their lack of self-care or just don't care, your work in educating patients is vital. Simply put, this scenario gives your interviewers the chance to see how much you prioritize patient education as a dental student.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
To effectively answer this question, describe in detail how you would verify that the patient understands how to use the floss effectively. You could demonstrate how to use it and explain why it is important for the overall health of the teeth and gums. As you answer, talk about the importance of ensuring that every patient that you work with is educated on their dental health.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"Even if the patient was adamant that they knew how to use the floss, I would ask them to demonstrate how they think they should use it. Floss is more difficult to use than most people realize, and so many patients make mistakes when flossing. I would emphasize that the patient needs to floss between every tooth and not apply so much pressure that it irritates the gums. I would suggest that each of us grab some floss and do it together."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
18. As a dental student, how would you handle a situation in which a member of your team clearly wasn't pulling their weight?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You will be working with a diverse team of individuals as part of the larger care team within a dental office. This could include fellow dentists, dental hygienists, and other support staff. As you will be the person ultimately responsible for the overall care of the patient, your interviewers will expect you to come to their program as a student who is willing and ready to take charge and be responsible for the work of all staff who come in contact with your patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
When answering this question, be direct in your approach, and consider what is best for the patient. If the team member's lack of care on the job puts a patient at risk, talk about how you would have an immediate conversation with the employee. If the person was having an off day, talk about how your ability to build a good rapport with your entire care team would enable you to have a professional, caring, and frank conversation with any member of your care team in this situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I pride myself on my ability to build respect and trust with all students and staff that I work with. In a situation like this, this trust and respect would enable me to have a clear and respectful conversation with any staff member that I thought wasn't pulling their weight. I would end the conversation on a positive note by telling them that I believe in them. If the situation put the well-being of a patient at risk, I wouldn't hesitate to have a conversation with the team member immediately."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
19. If you had a busy day of clinic in your final year of dental school, and a key piece of equipment failed, how would you handle the workload, patients, and stress until a fix was found?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Practicing dentists work with a wide variety of medical equipment, tools, and technology, and this equipment, though very expensive and modern, can break down from time to time. Your interviewers are looking to ensure that the students that come into their dental program can handle the stress of vital equipment failure in a healthy, professional, and safe manner for all involved.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
There are some key things to highlight in your answer to prove your ability to think on your feet, make quick decisions, and do what needs to be done in the heat of the moment. First, talk about your ability to find an alternate solution and work as part of a team in doing so. Next, talk about your ability to prioritize any high-needs patients who are directly impacted by this equipment failure. Last, describe your calm demeanor and ability to think critically when the chips are down and you are the dentist in charge.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"Upon finding that a major piece of equipment went down, my first thought would be to gather the entire team to come up with a workaround for patients. We could put our heads together to find an alternate piece of equipment or other means of working around it. If we found out that the equipment would be out of order and there were no alternatives for the day, we'd have to loop in the schedulers to reschedule any patients for that day that would need the use of the equipment. In the end, doing what is right for the patients would be my top priority."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
20. A recent patient survey comes back, and you find out that you did not meet a patient's expectations for their care. What are the next steps you would take to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Patient satisfaction surveys are commonplace in any dental practice. As a dental student, you need to understand that patient surveys are meant to be indicators for marketing, business planning, and care improvement. Your team of interviewers poses this question to get a sense of how you will take constructive feedback from a patient's survey and turn it into a positive by working to improve.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
If you were to ask any practicing dentist if they have ever received critical feedback on a patient survey, the answer would be a resounding yes. The key to answering this question is reiterating to your interviewers that you would take the feedback, analyze what you may have done, and use that as motivation to improve the care you provide to patients moving forward. Keep in mind that most patient feedback is anonymous, and you may not be able to pinpoint the exact interaction that resulted in the feedback from the patient.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"When faced with this situation, I wouldn't let it get me down. Rather, I would see it as an opportunity to improve. I would do my best to analyze the feedback and remember which patient encounter it came from. If the feedback was general, I would take time to reflect on why the patient may have said this about me and take all necessary measures to improve going forward. I would also use this learning opportunity to talk with faculty of the program to get their insight as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
21. What will you do if you don't get accepted into any dental programs during your first attempt? Do you have plans for the interim year?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Dental schools receive a large number of applications each cycle, and they can't accommodate all applicants each year. The interviewers are not implying that you will be rejected. They simply will want to know that you thought ahead and have a plan in mind if you are not accepted into any programs this year.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
First, assure your interviewers that the program you are interviewing with is your top program of choice because that will certainly earn you some bonus points. Then, explain that you are confident in your ability to be accepted into a program and talk about some of the alternatives that you might do in the interim year until the next application cycle for dental schools. This should include fine-tuning your application and gaining some helpful work experience in the dental field that will add to your application for the next time you apply.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"Your program is my top choice, so I would be disappointed if I was rejected, but I take the time to reflect on my application and make improvements over the next year. I would also reach back out to you to see what I could improve upon. I also have a family friend who runs a dental practice in my hometown who has agreed to let me shadow him over the next year to learn the details of his practice and his techniques if I were not to be accepted this year."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
22. When you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed during dental school, what will you do to ensure that your mental and physical health is in the right place?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The national attrition rate for dental students is around 7%, and dental students withdraw from their programs for both personal and academic reasons. Your interviewers want assurance from the students applying for their program that they can manage the common stressors of dental school healthily and productively.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
This is a good chance for you to give your interviewing team some insight into your life and personality by talking about the things that you like to do to relax. This can include any hobbies or interests you have aside from academics and dentistry. Don't hesitate to talk about the techniques you use to keep stress on the job and in your schoolwork from keeping you down.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I am confident that I would successfully handle the huge academic, lab, and clinical load over the next four years. I am an avid outdoor enthusiast and health nut. I find that exercising regularly and taking time for hikes or biking trips keep my body in great physical shape and my mind in a good spot. While I know that I would have less time to take part in these activities during dental school, I would prioritize them during any free time I might have."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
23. How would you handle a patient that refused an x-ray because they thought they were harmful to their health?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to ensure that you are mentally prepared for any situation that could occur while you are in practice as a dentist. In a situation like this, your interviewers want to hear that you will take an empathetic approach with the patient while also doing your best to educate them on the best path for their care.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Walk your interviewers through your approach to this situation. First, you should take the time to reflectively listen to the patient's concerns, so explain how you would do this with the utmost respect. Explain that you understand that it is your responsibility to make a clear diagnosis, but you must allow the patient to have an autonomous decision in their care. Discuss the ways that you would educate the patient on x-ray safety to provide the best dental care to them possible.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"In a situation like this, it is important to remain empathetic to the patient's wants and concerns, and I would be sure to have a private conversation with them. I'd start by asking what the concerns were from the patient and then hear them out. I would listen for particular conditions like pregnancy, that the radiation could harm. From there, I would educate the patient on the safety of the x-ray process, including wearing the vest and the limited exposure per guidelines. Then I would determine whether or not the x-rays were medically necessary for their care. In the end, the patient has the final call, and I'd be happy knowing that I did my due diligence in educating them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
24. If you had difficulty with your hand skills during preclinical lab work in our program, how would you proceed to improve your skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A successful dentist must possess excellent manual dexterity skills, and your preclinical work in dental school will be the first time that you will be working on dental techniques in a small, simulated mouth. The faculty of the program will evaluate your ability to do this daily, and they need to be comfortable in your abilities before you see patients on your own in your later years of the program. In asking this question, your interviewing team wants to hear that you wouldn't hesitate to put in extra work to develop the necessary manual dexterity skills for patient care as a dentist.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Tell your interviewers that you would remain motivated to master any skills required in their dental program, even if it takes some extra work on your part. Talk about your willingness to put in extra hours in the lab setting waxing up teeth and drilling into simulated plastic teeth. You can also talk about using manual dexterity building tactics like wood carving, sewing, or painting.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"While I am confident that I have the fine motor skills necessary to successfully work in a patient's mouth, I wouldn't hesitate to put in the extra time needed to fine-tune my skills. I realize that I will be learning and mastering the full scope of dental procedures during my training, and I know that they won't all come easily. If needed, I wouldn't hesitate to ask for some mentoring from a senior student or faculty member to go along with my hands-on training in the lab setting."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
25. During your dental school training, how will you handle a mistake you made in your coursework?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The transition to up to 40 hours per week in a classroom and laboratory setting from a 15-17 credit workload per semester in an undergraduate program can be difficult for some dental students during their first year. This major increase in work and study loads can cause some errors to be made, and your interviewers will be looking to hear that you will be accountable for your mistakes and own up to them right away.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Tell your interviewers that you will be accountable for your actions and work during dental school. Don't hesitate to give an example of a time you owned up to a mistake during your schooling or on the job in the past. Your interviewers know that every student they bring into their program is human and will make mistakes in their coursework, so don't hesitate to be open and honest about a past mistake as long as it proves your ability to admit your mistake and work to fix it.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"If I were to make a mistake in my coursework, I think it is important to talk with the faculty member to let them know that I am aware of the mistake and that I learned from it. I feel very fortunate to have been raised by parents that taught me accountability. I take responsibility for my actions, and this will ring true whether I'm completing required coursework or working directly with patients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
26. When faced with days, weeks, or even months with a large workload in dental school, how will you stay motivated to learn and succeed?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Upon making the jump from your undergraduate program to dental school, you will quickly discover that your classwork will be an all-day affair on most days, and this transition can be difficult for a lot of students. Your interviewers want to hear that you have the tools and motivation to succeed in an environment where you will need to be focused on your studies for most of your waking hours.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about the time management skills that you have developed throughout your educational journey to prove to your interviewers that you will be able to handle the large academic workload in dental school with ease. Highlight points in your undergraduate program when you were juggling multiple projects and assignments, and explain how you used specific time management techniques to ensure your overall success. Then ensure your interviewers know that you will remain positive and motivated no matter how heavy your workload will get during your years in dental school.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"Having talked with several newer dentists who have successfully navigated the rigors of a busy dental school program, I am confident in my abilities to manage everything that will be thrown my way over the next four years. During my undergrad program, I developed some great time management strategies that will be beneficial to my success here. Effective studying begins in class with great note-taking. I've also learned to employ some great time-saving strategies in my personal life that allow time for studying. Some examples of this include weekly meal prepping and ordering online versus shopping. In the end, you'd be getting a smart and highly motivated dental student if I were to be accepted into your program."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
27. If you had a personal conflict with a fellow student during your time in our dental school, how would you effectively work through that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The journey of applying, interviewing, and being accepted into dental school is a very competitive process. What a lot of prospective dental students don't realize is that dental school can become even more competitive once you are in the program. Your interviewers may pose a question on conflict with your peers because they know it is more than likely going to happen, and they want to know that you can handle conflict with respect and grace.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
As you acknowledge to your interviewers that you are aware of the competitive environment that you will be joining in their program, there are a couple of key points about yourself that you want to highlight for them. First, talk about your ability to collaborate with others despite differing thoughts or viewpoints and explain why this is important. Then, talk about your ability to compromise when conflict arises. Don't hesitate to give examples of times you've used these tactics throughout your life to reiterate your ability to bring them to your experience in dental school.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I fully understand that my dental student colleagues and I will be competitive in a healthy manner. I also realize that this competition could lead to some conflicts down the road. I am all about learning together and learning from each other's points of view. If I had a conflict with a student colleague, I would be upfront in talking through our differences and use this situation as a learning opportunity. If we were unable to solve the conflict, I would be respectful of my colleague and their opinion moving forward."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
28. As a trainee in our dental school, how will you handle critical feedback on your work by our faculty?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Throughout your four years of dental school, you will be subjected to grueling hours of classroom lectures, dental labs, and direct patient care. You will work very closely with the faculty of the program to hone your skills as a future dentist. Your interviewers need to know that you will be able to take constructive criticism with an open ear and a positive attitude, willing to learn and grow.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Tell your interviewers that you plan to come into dental school with a positive attitude and a growth mindset and that you are ready and willing to take any constructive feedback on your skills. To reiterate your answer, talk about times you've taken feedback on your work or classwork in the past and used that feedback to grow, learn, and change in a positive manner moving forward.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"I would come to your program with the full understanding that my classroom work and patient care techniques need to be honed and mastered during my four years here, and I would consider it an honor to learn from your world-class faculty. When the time comes for me to get some hard feedback, I will use it as a learning opportunity to reflect on what I did and learn moving forward."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
29. What would you do if you suspected a colleague was abusing drugs?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Over the years, drug abuse among those in the dental industry has become more prevalent, including the abuse of opioids, amphetamines, and nitrous oxide. Your interviewing team poses questions like this to ensure that you are aware of this trend in the industry and to hear that you would directly deal with the situation to ensure the safety of your colleagues and your patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Your answer to this question should demonstrate your ability to be direct with the colleague and/or leadership while also maintaining professional respect. Ensure your interviewers that you would take the necessary steps to get your colleague the help they needed if you were correct in your suspicions of abuse. If you've ever faced a situation like this in the past, don't hesitate to talk about the steps you took and what you learned from that situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I would look deeply into the physical and behavioral clues of my colleague to validate my suspicions. If I was confident that abuse was happening, I would be respectful of my colleague, let them know that I was concerned for their well-being, and ask if they wanted to talk. That conversation could go one of two ways. If they were compliant, I would ask that they talk about their issue with a leader and look into getting the help they needed. If they denied my suspicions and remained withdrawn, I would do my best to document what I noticed and talk to a leader about the issue."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
30. If you encountered a patient that had an allergy to lidocaine or other local anesthesia, what alternative methods of sedation would you suggest?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As your team of interviewers considers candidates to bring aboard their dental school program, they'll want their prospective candidates to have done their homework and have basic knowledge of different areas of dentistry. For this question, show them that you know the various types of sedation and anesthesia that can be used on patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
How to Answer
Come to your dental school interview prepared to talk about the various forms of local anesthesia, sedation dentistry, nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation by doing your research ahead of time. Then, as you answer, talk about how you would effectively determine the right form of anesthesia or sedation for this particular patient based on the procedure that they were about to undergo under your care.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022
Answer Example
"The alternative method is going to depend on what type of dental procedure the patient needed. If it was a minor procedure, I would talk to the patient about the benefits of sedation in the form of nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or IV sedation. I'm familiar with Halcion being used in minor procedures as opposed to lidocaine. In the end, doing what is best for the patient's health and comfort would be a top priority for me."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 22nd, 2022