Question Overview: This question is designed to help you learn more about the candidate’s personality and work ethic. Asking this question will help you determine if the candidate is a good fit for your office culture.
Sample Answer: I’m a very organized person and I’m able to multitask well. I’m also very friendly and I enjoy helping others.
Question Overview: Dental procedures can be long and tedious, so it’s important to find a candidate who can stay focused and maintain a positive attitude. This question will help you determine if a candidate is capable of remaining engaged and upbeat throughout the day.
Sample Answer: I enjoy assisting the doctor with placing temporary fillings. It’s a short procedure that requires me to be quick and precise. I also enjoy assisting with placing crowns. The procedure is lengthy, but I enjoy being able to see the finished product at the end.
Question Overview: This question is designed to determine if a candidate has the ability to effectively communicate their personality, skills and experience. Answer this question by providing a brief overview of your background, highlighting your strengths and explaining why you are the best candidate for the job.
Sample Answer: I’m a hardworking, dedicated dental assistant who has been in the field for five years. I’ve worked in two different offices and learned a lot from each experience. I’m looking for a new opportunity to further my career and I’m confident that I can make an immediate impact in your office.
Question Overview: This question gives you insight into a candidate’s career goals and how they plan to achieve them. A dental assistant who has a clear vision of their future will be more likely to remain with your practice.
Sample Answer: I’d like to become a dental hygienist. I’ve always had a passion for the field and would like to continue my education.
Question Overview: This question is designed to determine if a candidate has researched the company and understands the role. The candidate should be able to explain why they’re interested in the position, what they like about the company and how they can contribute to the organization.
Sample Answer: I’ve been a fan of your practice for years. I’ve always admired your commitment to patient care and your dedication to providing quality dental care. I’m confident I can contribute to your team by helping you provide the best possible experience for your patients.
Question Overview: A dental assistant who is qualified for the job will have the necessary credentials. This question is designed to determine if a candidate has all the required certifications and licenses to perform the job.
Sample Answer: Yes, I have all the necessary certifications and licenses. I’m certified in CPR and first aid, I’m licensed as a dental assistant in the state of Florida and I’m certified in Dentrix.
Question Overview: This question is designed to determine if a candidate has a clear understanding of the company’s needs and how they can fulfill them.
Sample Answer: I’ve been working in the dental field for five years and have experience with all aspects of the profession. I’m a team player and am willing to take on any task that is required of me. I’m also computer literate and am proficient with Dentrix, which is the software used in your office.
Question Overview: This question is designed to determine the candidate’s commitment to their job. A dental assistant who is unable to come into work due to illness or injury will be unable to complete their duties, causing the office to suffer.
Sample Answer: I’m very dedicated to my job and will always make it a priority to come into work. If I’m sick, I’ll make sure to communicate with my manager so that they can find a replacement.
Question Overview: This question is designed to gauge the candidate’s ability to identify and acknowledge their shortcomings. A dental assistant who can identify their weaknesses and explain how they plan to overcome them will be a valuable asset to your practice.
Sample Answer: I’m a perfectionist. I want everything to be done right the first time and I’m not afraid to ask for help if I need it. I’ve learned that sometimes it’s better to ask for help than to try and do everything myself.
Question Overview: This question gives you an opportunity to learn about a candidate’s interest in the position and whether they’re a good fit for your office.
Sample Answer: Affordable Dentures and Implants is a well-established practice with a reputation for providing quality care. I’m impressed with the number of patients who have been treated by Dr. Smith and would be proud to work for such a reputable dentist.
Question Overview: This question is designed to determine if a candidate has a realistic expectation of the salary range for the position. It’s important to ensure you’re offering a competitive salary to attract the best talent.
Sample Answer: I’m looking for a salary of $40,000 to $45,000 annually.
Question Overview: A dental assistant with experience in denture will be able to provide a more thorough explanation of the process and the steps involved. This question will help you determine if a candidate is familiar with the procedure and can provide you with a detailed description of their experience.
Sample Answer: I’ve had extensive experience in denture. I’ve worked with patients who have had partial and full dentures. I’ve also made dentures from scratch, including taking impressions and making wax models.
Question Overview: A dental assistant must be able to maintain a professional demeanor and remain calm in the face of adversity. This question will help you determine if a candidate is equipped to handle difficult patients and remain composed.
Sample Answer: I always try to remain calm and professional. I listen carefully to what the patient is saying and try to understand their concerns. I then explain the dentist’s recommendations and why they are necessary. If the patient continues to be unruly, I will meet with the dentist in private to discuss the situation.
Question Overview: This question will help you learn what a candidate values in their work environment. The answer will also give you insight into the candidate’s personality and work ethic.
Sample Answer: I enjoyed working with my coworkers and the ability to work independently. I also enjoyed the flexibility of my schedule and the opportunity to work with a variety of patients.
Question Overview: This question is designed to gauge the candidate’s enthusiasm for the position and their desire to work for your dental office.
Sample Answer: I’m a dedicated and hardworking individual who is eager to learn and grow in my career. I’m confident that I can make a positive impact in your dental office.
Question Overview: A stressful situation can arise at any time, but a candidate who can remain calm and think on their feet will be able to resolve the issue and maintain a positive attitude.
Sample Answer: I was working with a patient who was in extreme pain. I was able to quickly locate the source of the problem and schedule an appointment for treatment. However, the patient was in so much pain that they refused to wait for treatment. I had to call security to escort the patient out of the office.
Question Overview: Dental assistants who are willing to work full-time hours will be more reliable and committed to the position. This question will help you determine if a candidate is willing to work the hours required for the job.
Sample Answer: I am willing and able to work full-time hours. I am available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can occasionally work Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.
Question Overview: A dental assistant’s availability is a key factor in the hiring process. A candidate who is available to work full-time, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, is more likely to be hired than someone who is only available part-time.
Sample Answer: I’m available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. I’m also willing to work weekends and evenings if needed.
Question Overview: This question is designed to determine if a candidate has the necessary experience to perform the job. While a dental assistant’s level of experience will vary depending on the position, this question will help you determine if the candidate is qualified for the role.
Sample Answer: I’ve been a dental assistant for five years and have worked in two different offices. I’ve gained experience in all aspects of the profession, including patient care, sterilization, record keeping and insurance billing.
Question Overview: A candidate’s answer to this question will reveal their passion for the profession and what they find most enjoyable about the job.
Sample Answer: I love being a dental assistant because I get to work with patients and help them achieve a healthy smile. I enjoy educating patients on proper oral hygiene and showing them how easy it is to maintain their smile.