Use these questions to identify a candidate’s technical knowledge and abilities
Use these questions to determine how a candidate handled situations in the past
Use these questions to assess a candidate’s personal traits and cognitive skills
Why this matters
Each patient is unique, so treatments for dental issues can vary from one case to the next. Here, you’re looking for the candidate to discuss their own methods for formulating an effective treatment, and how they determine the best approach. A great dentist combines complete, accurate data with a programmatic approach to treatment planning.
What to listen for
- A focus on obtaining results that are predictable, optimal, and consistent.
- Strong answers may emphasize gaining insight on the patient’s past experiences, desired changes, or existing health problems.
Why this matters
As life expectancy increases, it’s essential for dentists to be well informed about the oral healthcare needs of this growing segment of the population. This question screens for the candidate’s knowledge of illnesses and conditions elderly patients may face, and their implications on oral health and dental treatment.
What to listen for
- Candidates should stress the importance of preventative care, as well as the link between oral and systemic concerns.
- Recognition that good oral healthcare can often help aging adults retain most of their teeth.
Why this matters
Nitrous oxide (N20) is the most common anesthetic used by dentists to calm anxious patients. While it may be known as laughing gas, it’s not suitable for all patients, and extreme care should be taken before administering it. In addition to preventing adverse effects in patients, a skilled dentist will also have controls in place to keep staff safe from N20 emissions.
What to listen for
- Discussion of risks and side effects (although rare), including nausea, dizziness, headache, and tingling.
- Knowledge of contraindications, such as COPD, cystic fibrosis, and middle ear effusion.
Why this matters
Studies show that oral health can be a window to an individual’s overall health. An excellent dentist is aware that their expertise is central to a person’s overall well-being and uses this knowledge to form their treatment philosophy.
What to listen for
- An empathetic answer that demonstrates genuine concern for patient wellbeing.
- Strong candidates will speak to the importance of watching for developments that may point to other health issues.
Why this matters
This question delves into the candidate’s ability to lead and develop a high-performing dental care team. No matter how talented a dentist is, they cannot run a practice alone. They must rely on an efficient and empathetic dental care team to keep day-to-day operations running smoothly and patient satisfaction high.
What to listen for
- Specific examples of how they build mutual trust, respect, and cooperation.
- Indications that the candidate appreciates the value of building a culture that encourages everyone to thrive and grow.
Why this matters
Being a dentist can be a demanding job, but candidates who have a true passion for the profession can take these demands in their stride. You want to know that your candidate can deal with the less enjoyable aspects of the job and still approach patients (and their own team) with kindness and reassurance at all times.
What to listen for
- Examples drawn from past work experience and a discussion of how they overcame them.
- A positive tone and an emphasis on the fact that the rewarding aspects of the job outweigh the negatives.
Why this matters
Communicating with patients who may not speak the same language can be challenging for dentists. A great dentist knows their communication style may need to be altered to suit the context and ensure all patients receive the care they need. But they should also know the limits of their own communication skills and be willing to bring in additional help when required.
What to listen for
- Strong and adaptable communication skills and a calm, patient demeanor.
- Knowledge that some situations may require the presence of an accredited interpreter (i.e. informed consent).
Why this matters
This question assesses two important qualities all dentists should have: empathy, and the ability to translate complex information into simple terms. It can be upsetting for patients to learn they need procedures like extractions. You want to hire a dentist who can be clear about why the tooth needs to be extracted, while still taking the patient’s emotions into account.
What to listen for
- A commitment to creating and nurturing strong dentist-patient relationships.
- Signs that the candidate can use layman’s terms to ensure patients’ comfort and understanding.
Why this matters
Due to technological advances and innovations in the field, the dental industry can undergo major changes within short periods. To keep up with the latest developments, dentists must have a commitment to continuing education. If your candidate lacks an interest in developments in the industry, this could indicate that they’ll be slow to adopt revolutions in patient care.
What to listen for
- Examples relating to the latest diagnostic, preventive, and treatment methods in the industry.
- Top candidates may point to their own contributions to research in the field, or information learned at conferences or other industry events.
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