Dental School Interview Question Expert Answer #6

Strong interpersonal skills are important for any health care profession, but especially dentists. Dentists must interact with patients in a controlled, compassionate manner. Many patients are apprehensive or concerned about certain procedures; whether it’s because they had a prior negative experience, undergoing surgery or an intrusive examination, or simply because they are generally ambivalent about the dentist, it’s important for professionals to exude positive and open energy so patients can trust them.

During my predental studies, I shadowed a dentist for a month. I got familiar with some of the regular procedures, including teeth cleanings, extractions, and fillings. There was one patient who was having a root canal. The young woman was having a lot of anxiety about the procedure, she admitted. She was also in a lot of pain during her initial consultation and before the procedure. My supervisor, Dr. Sal, was quick to dispel the uncertainty of the procedure, thus alleviating the patient’s worries. Heeding her questions about how painful the procedure would be, she emphasized how it would allow her to heal and live pain-free.

Another trait that I think is important for dentists to have is strong communication. Dentists have to translate complex procedures and anatomical terms into simple language. Most patients won’t understand, nor do they need to, for example, that the maxillary sinuses are located above the upper back teeth, which is why patients who might need implants would have a sinus lift to raise them to their proper position. Being adaptive to communication styles is also important. Children who are nervous will often respond better to visuals demonstrating a certain procedure, usually fillings for cavities. Also, some patients also have complications from past trauma or disabilities. Someone with cerebral palsy, for instance, will often present oral problems such as misalignment of the upper and lower teeth. Dentists need to work closely with patients to identify their unique needs, which is why communicating is paramount.

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