Top Dental Assistant Interview Questions with Example Answers [2022]

Prepare for your Dental Assistant interview by going through these most asked Dental Assistant interview questions. Additionally, get access to sample answers and interviewer's expectations.

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  • Question: Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Career goals
    • - Ambition
    • - Desire to grow professionally

  • Question: What can you bring to the company?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Knowledge of the company
    • - Ability to fulfill the company’s needs
    • - Skills

  • Question: What are your strengths?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Personality
    • - Work ethic
    • - Strengths

  • Question: What is your favorite procedure to assist the Doctor in during a Dental Procedure?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Positive attitude
    • - Ability to remain focused
    • - Willingness to assist

  • Question: What will prevent you from coming into work?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Commitment
    • - Reliability
    • - Ability to prioritize

  • Question: Why do you want to work for us?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Passion for the position
    • - Knowledge of the company
    • - Desire to work for this employer

  • Question: Why would you choose to work for Affordable Dentures and Implants?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Knowledge of the company
    • - Interest in the position
    • - Desire to work for the company

  • Question: Tell me about your self.
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Communication skills
    • - Personality
    • - Ability to sell yourself

  • Question: Do you have all the credentials for this position?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Credentials
    • - Licenses
    • - Certifications

  • Question: What is your biggest weakness?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Honesty
    • - Ability to recognize and address shortcomings
    • - Desire to improve

  • Question: How old are you?
  • Question Overview: This question is illegal to ask in many states and countries. However, if asked, you can use it to your advantage. If the candidate is too young, you can ask them if they are mature enough to handle the responsibilities of the job. If they are too old, you can ask them if they are willing to learn new technologies and techniques.

    Sample Answer: I’m 24 years old. I’ve been working in a dental office for five years and have been exposed to many different situations. I’m confident that I can handle the responsibilities of a dental assistant and am willing to learn new technologies and techniques.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Maturity
    • - Willingness to learn
    • - Ability to adapt to change

  • Question: How do you resolve conflicts in the dental office?
  • Question Overview: Conflicts arise in every workplace, but a dental assistant who can resolve issues in a professional manner will improve office morale and ensure the practice runs smoothly.

    Sample Answer: I take a step back and assess the situation. If the conflict is between two patients, I ask them to step into the hallway so I can speak with them individually. I listen to both sides of the story and help them come to a resolution. If the conflict is between two employees, I bring them into the break room or schedule an appointment with the dentist to discuss their concerns.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Communication skills
    • - Ability to remain calm
    • - Conflict resolution skills

  • Question: What will you contribute to Multnomah County if hired?
  • Question Overview: This question is a great way to learn about a candidate’s personal and professional goals. It will help you understand how the candidate will add value to your dental office and what they hope to gain from the position.

    Sample Answer: I’m looking for a dental assisting job that will allow me to grow professionally and personally. I want to be challenged and work with a team that is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care. I’m excited to join your team!

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Career goals
    • - Personal goals
    • - How they will contribute to the team

  • Question: What was the most challenging situation you have ever encountered in your life and how did you deal with it?
  • Question Overview: This question will help you determine how a candidate will handle stressful situations. A dental assistant who can remain composed and maintain a positive attitude will be able to effectively communicate with patients and co-workers when the pressure is on.

    Sample Answer: I was working at a dental office where the dentist was very demanding and critical of his staff. He would often yell at us for minor mistakes, which made me feel like I was constantly under a microscope. I learned to take his criticism with a grain of salt and focus on my work. I also learned to communicate with him in a professional manner, which helped me gain his respect.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to remain calm and composed
    • - Ability to communicate effectively
    • - Ability to work well under pressure

  • Question: What did you do when you made a mistake on your job?
  • Question Overview: Mistakes are inevitable, but how a candidate handles the situation is what determines their success. This question will help you determine if a candidate is able to learn from their mistakes and take steps to prevent them from happening again.

    Sample Answer: I was working with a patient and accidentally dropped a tray of instruments. I apologized to the patient and immediately cleaned up the mess. I then went back to the office and cleaned the instruments, ensuring they were properly sterilized before returning them to their proper storage location.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Ability to learn from mistakes
    • - Accountability
    • - Ability to take responsibility

  • Question: What is your availability?
  • Question Overview: A dental assistant’s schedule should be flexible enough to accommodate the needs of the office and the dentist. This question will help you determine if a candidate can work with your office’s schedule and be available for last-minute emergencies.

    Sample Answer: I’m available to work Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. I can also work some Saturdays and am willing to take on additional hours if needed.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Flexibility
    • - Availability
    • - Commitment

  • Question: What do you like most about being a dental assistant?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Enjoyment of the role
    • - Desire to help others
    • - Strengths

  • Question: What is your greatest strength?
  • Question Overview: This question is designed to help you determine if a candidate possesses the skills and abilities that will allow them to succeed in the role.

    Sample Answer: I have excellent communication skills. I’m able to clearly explain procedures and answer questions in a way that is easy for patients to understand. I also have the ability to work well in a team, which is important because I’m often working with other dental professionals.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Communication skills
    • - Ability to work in a team
    • - Professionalism

  • Question: What was your most satisfying experience and or greatest achievement?
  • Question Overview: This question will help you determine what a candidate finds most rewarding about their profession. It will also give you insight into their personality and how they view their role in the dental office.

    Sample Answer: My greatest achievement was when I was able to help a patient who had been in pain for years. I was able to successfully complete a root canal and restore the patient’s smile.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Personality traits
    • - Values
    • - Strengths

  • Question: What is your experience?
  • 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.

      What the interviewer is looking for:
    • - Years of experience
    • - Dental experience
    • - Computer literacy
    • - Ability to adapt to and manage stress