Why do you want to be a dentist? Is often the most common question asked in an interview for a job application to become a dentist.

So how exactly does one answer this? 

Answering dentistry questions in an interview requires a combination of knowledge, communication skills, and professionalism. Whether you’re applying to dental school, residency programs, or for a position as a practicing dentist, here are some strategies to effectively respond to dentistry questions:

1. Know Your Stuff

   Be prepared to discuss dental terminology, procedures, and concepts related to oral health. Review your academic coursework, clinical experiences, and any relevant research or projects you’ve undertaken. Stay updated on current trends, advancements, and issues in the field of dentistry.

2. Practice Common Questions

   Anticipate commonly asked questions in dentistry interviews and practice your responses. These may include questions about your motivation for pursuing dentistry, your strengths and weaknesses, your approach to patient care, and your understanding of ethical and professional standards in dentistry.

3. Highlight Your Experience

   Share specific examples from your academic and clinical experiences to demonstrate your skills, competencies, and achievements. Discuss memorable patient cases, challenging procedures you’ve performed, and instances where you’ve demonstrated leadership, teamwork, or problem-solving abilities.

4. Emphasize Patient Care

   Dentistry is a patient-centered profession, so emphasize your commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care to patients. Discuss your communication skills, empathy, and ability to build rapport with diverse patient populations. Illustrate how you prioritize patient comfort, safety, and satisfaction in your practice.

5. Demonstrate Critical Thinking

   Showcase your ability to analyze problems, evaluate evidence, and make informed decisions in clinical scenarios. Be prepared to discuss your diagnostic approach, treatment planning process, and considerations for addressing patient concerns or complications. Highlight your ability to adapt to changing circumstances and apply evidence-based practices in your clinical decision-making.

6. Address Ethical and Professional Issues

   Be ready to discuss ethical dilemmas, patient confidentiality, informed consent, and other professional responsibilities relevant to dentistry. Demonstrate your understanding of ethical principles, legal regulations, and professional guidelines governing dental practice. Discuss how you would handle challenging situations while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.

7. Stay Calm and Confident

   Approach each question with confidence and composure, even if you encounter a challenging or unexpected question. Take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding, and maintain good posture, eye contact, and a professional demeanor throughout the interview. Remember that interviewers are also assessing your communication skills and interpersonal qualities in addition to your dental knowledge.

8. Ask Questions

   Use the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the program, practice, or organization you’re interviewing with. This demonstrates your interest, curiosity, and initiative, and can provide valuable insights into the role and environment you’re considering.

9. Seek Feedback

   After the interview, reflect on your performance and seek feedback from mentors, peers, or interviewers if possible. Identify areas for improvement and consider how you can enhance your communication skills, expand your dental knowledge, or refine your interview techniques for future opportunities.

By following these strategies and being well-prepared, you can effectively answer dentistry questions in interviews and present yourself as a knowledgeable, skilled, and professional candidate in the field of dentistry.

Here are sample answers for the most common questions asked in a dentist job application:

1. Why do you want to be a dentist?

   Sample Answer: “I’ve always been drawn to the intersection of science, art, and patient care, and dentistry embodies all of these aspects in a unique way. From a young age, I was fascinated by the intricate structure of the human mouth and the importance of oral health in overall well-being. As I learned more about the field of dentistry, I became captivated by its potential to transform lives through preventive care, restorative treatments, and cosmetic enhancements.

2. What motivated you to pursue a career in dentistry?

   Sample Answer: “I’ve always been passionate about helping others and making a positive impact on their lives. Dentistry allows me to combine my interests in science, art, and patient care in a meaningful way. I’m drawn to the opportunity to improve people’s oral health, enhance their smiles, and alleviate their dental pain. Being a dentist enables me to build lasting relationships with patients and contribute to their overall well-being.”

3. Can you tell us about your experience as a dentist?

   Sample Answer: “Certainly. I have [X years] of experience working as a dentist in both private practice and community health settings. During this time, I have developed proficiency in a wide range of dental procedures, including routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, and cosmetic treatments. I am committed to providing compassionate care and ensuring the highest standards of patient satisfaction and safety.”

4. How do you handle difficult or anxious patients?

   Sample Answer: “I approach difficult or anxious patients with empathy, patience, and understanding. I take the time to listen to their concerns, address any fears or apprehensions they may have, and explain procedures in a clear and reassuring manner. I prioritize creating a comfortable and supportive environment in the dental office, and I utilize techniques such as relaxation strategies, distraction techniques, and gentle communication to help patients feel at ease.”