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Dental Hygienists wear many hats within the dental office they serve. The skills an RDH must possess are varied but specific, so the interview process can be challenging.
You will see many of the typical interview questions you’ve faced in the past, sure. They’ll assess your hard skills, your soft skills, your personality, and your motivations.
In addition to these more typical questions, you will get very job-specific questions to determine whether or not you possess the knowledge and experience they require. To help you prepare for your next interview, we have 30 dental hygienist interview questions and answers.
Key Takeaways:
A dental hygienist candidate should highlight their patient care skills and create a list of questions to ask the interviewer to show your genuine interest in the position.
Interviewers should create dental hygienist behavioral questions as well as being prepared to answer questions relating to the practice's culture and professional growth opportunities.
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Tell me about yourself. This is a common interview question often asked at the start of the interview. Your answer should highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
Example Answer:
I have eight years of experience as a dental hygienist. During my career, I have developed strong skills in performing through dental cleanings, conducting oral health assessments, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene techniques.
I take pride n building rapport with my patients and helping them achieve optimal oral health. I am a strong advocate for patient education and believe in empowering patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain good oral hygiene practices at home.
Why do you want to work here? This question is often asked to see how much research you have done or the company prior to the interview. Your answer should show your knowledge of the dental practice and they their values align with your values and goals.
Example Answer:
I want to work here because I am drawn to this practice and your dedication with staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental hygiene. I was excited about the continuing education opportunities you offer and your emphasis on supporting your dental hygienists and expanding their knowledge. I believe continuous learning is essential in delivering the best care to patients.
I am also drawn to your commitment to patient education. I believe empowering patients with the knowledge about their oral health is crucial in promoting long-term dental wellness. Your focus on educating patients and providing them with the correct tools and resources aligns with my own personal values as a dental professional.
What are your strengths and weaknesses? The strength you choose to talk about should relate back to the position. It's important to remember when discussing weaknesses, you should focus on how you are improving them.
Example Answer:
I believe my strengths as a dental hygienist would be in my technical skills. I have developed strong technical proficiency in performing dental cleanings, conducting periodontal assessments, and using various dental instruments. I am skilled in using both ultrasonic and hand scalers to ensure thorough plaque and calculus removal while putting the patients comfort first.
My weakness would be my public speaking skills. When speaking to a large crowd, I feel a slight hesitation. However, I am working to improve by attending communication workshops and I seek out opportunities to present oral health information to smaller groups. I believe that challenging myself, I will become better and strengthen my skills daily.
How do you teach about proper oral care habits? Your oral health habits and your knowledge of proper dental care matter as a dental hygienist. Not only do you work in a dentist’s office, but part of your job is also to provide education to your patients.
The age of the patient and their prior knowledge matters, so I would assess their familiarity with proper procedure before beginning. If I am teaching them about good oral care habits, it is likely they are not performing them.
Still, they may have an understanding they are choosing to ignore, and I don’t want to talk down to them. Regardless of how I choose to explain it, I would demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques for the patient. Then, I would have the patient practice under my supervision, offering tips and redirection when necessary.
What experience do you have performing x-rays and diagnostic tests? Your response helps them get a better picture of your experience performing the expected duties of the job. It will also show them whether or not you are familiar with the latest technology and equipment.
Over the last five years, I have exposed and processed hundreds of x-rays for patients of all ages. I always follow the practice’s procedural standards and adhere to all safety standards. I also make it a regular practice to perform patient assessments to evaluate the oral health and determine if further action is needed.
Can you describe the signs and symptoms of gingivitis? How would you advise a patient who displayed these symptoms? Part of your job as a Dental Hygienist is assessing their oral health and diagnosing issues requiring further attention. Your ability to not only identify gingivitis but to discuss the diagnosis with the patient is crucial.
Gingivitis presents with swollen or puffy gums that are dark red in color. The patient's gums will bleed easily when brushing or flossing. They may also complain of gum tenderness and bad breath. If gingivitis was suspected, I would explain to the patient that it is not uncommon and can be easily reversed with proper oral care.
I would also stress that not taking steps to reverse gingivitis and maintain better oral health will result in the development of more serious gum disease and other potential health complications. To reverse their gingivitis, they should floss more frequently, preferably once per day, and make more of an effort to brush for the full two minutes twice a day.
What is your training and experience as a dental hygienist? Your potential employer simply wants to ensure that you have the required education and experience needed to complete the job duties.
I received my AAS in Dental Hygiene from Athens Technical College and completed my clinical internship with Smile Factory in Jefferson, GA. I am a licensed RDH in Georgia and have worked the last five years at Tooth Hurty Dentistry.
What is your familiarity with HIPAA? As a Dental Hygienist, you should be very familiar with HIPAA protocol. It is an essential part of your job, and you will likely face this question during your interview.
So, if you need to brush up on specific HIPAA procedures, do so. You need to show them you understand the policies and procedures and will practice discretion.
I completed a course dedicated to HIPAA compliance while at Athens Technical College, so I’m very familiar with the current policies and procedures. I don’t discuss patient information in common areas and am careful not to disclose personal information where others can overhear.
How do you motivate uncooperative patients? Not every patient you deal with will be cool, calm, and collected. In fact, you will see a lot of patients who are uncooperative, combative, and openly disagree with you or the dentist.
Your potential employer wants to know that you can stay level-headed in high-stress situations. Your answer should show them that you can handle conflict and resolve situations without having to involve superiors.
No matter the situation, I would maintain a positive attitude. By responding with irritation or hostility, the patient will only be more defensive. The best way to handle uncooperative patients is to eliminate confusion. Often, patients are uncooperative or argumentative because they don’t understand what is being asked of them or explained. I would explain the diagnosis, treatment options, or procedure in language the patient understands.
How do you handle anxious or fearful patients? The dentist can be a stressful experience for many people, especially younger patients. You will often encounter patients who are nervous or scared, so you need to know how to handle them.
Patients are more at ease when they are comfortable with the person performing the procedures. So, I try to build a rapport with all of my patients. It can be difficult to recognize anxiety in some patients, but once I do, I always talk to the patient and actively listen to their concerns. I do my best to be empathetic and provide them with whatever they need to help them relax, be it further information or just a comforting smile.
Which would you recommend to patients, water flossing or string flossing? Both options have their pros and cons. They may be looking for a specific answer based on their procedure, but you want to demonstrate that you know the benefits of both methods.
String flossing is certainly the more traditional flossing method, but it is not always the best choice. I try to base my recommendation on the patient and their needs. If they struggle with dexterity, are inconsistent in their flossing, or are younger, I would recommend water flossing as it’s an easier method for them.
Can you identify the signs of teeth grinding? Again, part of your job as a Dental Hygienist is diagnosing problems and escalating the issue if necessary. Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common issue that many patients may not realize they have.
Yes. By examining the patient’s teeth and listening to their concerns, it is easy to diagnose Bruxism. If the patient complains of headaches, pain or stiffness in their jaw, and/or tooth pain and that is accompanied by flattened, worn-down, or damaged teeth, it points to teeth grinding.
How would you explain the risks of not flossing to a patient? No one likes flossing. Well, many of your patients won’t anyway. It is an integral part of proper oral care though, and it is your job to provide patient education. They want to know that you not only understand the risks, but you can communicate them to your patients.
The language I use will depend on the patient, but I would clearly explain the consequences. By not flossing, you put yourself at risk of some serious oral health issues. It won’t just be bad breath. Poor oral hygiene leads to gum disease and can increase your chances at developing other serious illnesses.
How do you work in a team environment? A dental hygienist will always work as part of a larger team. They may work alongside dentists, dental assistants, or other dental hygienists. You need to show that you can collaborate and cooperate with the other members of your dental team.
I am an excellent team player. A dental office can only work efficiently if everyone is willing to work together. Communication is important, as is collaboration. I often find myself working on patients alongside other team members and am always quick to suggest an appointment with the dentist if I believe one is necessary.
How important is patient education, and what role do you expect to play in providing it? We’ve mentioned it a few times now, but we’ll repeat it: patient education is part of your job as a Dental Hygienist. You should understand the importance and your role.
Patient education is essential. When patients are properly educated, it reduces oral health problems, leads to better at-home care, and allows them to make more informed decisions. As a Dental Hygienist, one of my main responsibilities is educating my patients on proper oral care as well as treatment options and procedures.
Your patient is concerned about the mercury used in their filling. How do you handle the situation? You will most likely encounter a patient or two, or ten, that don’t understand a specific material, procedure, or treatment. Mercury sounds scary, and it is known to be poisonous.
If you have patients that have read up on the procedure, they may have questions like this. Your potential employer wants to know you have the knowledge and the ability to communicate it in a way patients will understand.
I would acknowledge their concern and not dismiss them. I would then explain that silver fillings, or dental amalgams, are made up of a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper, with mercury making up the majority and acting as the binding agent. While mercury on its own is harmful, when combined with other materials, the mercury becomes essentially harmless. The mercury you are exposed to from your filling is significantly less than what you’re exposed to in your everyday environment, and there is nothing to worry about.
Who is at risk for cavities? And, how can they prevent them? Your potential employer is testing your knowledge here. Everyone has bacteria in their mouth, and everyone is at risk of cavities. That said, there are certain populations more at risk, so acknowledge them.
Everyone is at risk of developing a cavity. However, some have a higher risk of tooth decay. Children and elderly patients are at greater risk, as are those with certain chronic illnesses such as diabetes. To prevent cavities, patients should brush twice a day, floss daily, avoid sweets and heavy starches, and see their dentist every six months.
Describe your average day as a Dental Hygienist. Demonstrate that you understand the job duties you are expected to perform. Familiarize yourself with the job listing and try to include mention of any responsibilities they mention specifically.
I usually begin my day by reviewing the charts for any of my scheduled patients. This allows me to assess what each patient needs and how I can best prepare for their visit. Once I have a better understanding of my day, I set up the treatment room for my first patient. An average day would have me seeing at least ten patients and performing oral exams, providing patient education, taking x-rays, performing cleanings and bleachings. I also clean and disinfect my room, tools, and equipment.
Why did you become a Dental Hygienist? They want to understand your motivations and get insight into your personality. There is no wrong way to answer this question—as long as you are truthful and genuine.
Everyone at my dentist’s office always seemed to genuinely enjoy their jobs, and I wanted to help people. So, it seemed like a good fit for an extrovert like me. Proper oral hygiene seems like such a simple thing, but there are so many people who are unaware of how to properly care for their teeth and the consequences that can come from not doing so.
Is it your job to do instruments and sterilization? Your potential employer wants to know how you view the job duties. Are you willing to lend a hand and step outside your perceived duties, and be a team player?
Absolutely. Preparing instruments and sterilizing tools and equipment should not fall to one person or another. It is my responsibility to make sure that what I need to treat my patient is sterilized and available to me and anyone else who needs it.
Describe the steps involved in performing a thorough dental prophylaxis, including the specific tools and techniques you would use.
How would you educate a patient on proper oral hygiene practices, particularly focusing on the prevention of periodontal disease?
What are the indications and contraindications for dental radiographs, and how do you ensure patient safety during the procedure?
Walk me through the process of assessing a patient's periodontal status, including the measurements you would take and how you would interpret the findings.
What steps you would take to identify and manage a patient with early signs of dental caries or tooth decay?
Explain the importance of patient charting and documentation in a dental hygiene practice, including the specific details you would record during a routine examination.
What infection control protocols and procedures would you follow to maintain a safe and sterile clinical environment for both patients and staff?
Describe the process of applying dental sealants, including the preparation of the tooth surface and the materials you would use.
How would you assess and address the nutritional factors that contribute to oral health, and what advice would you give to patients to promote a healthy diet for their teeth and gums?
Discuss the steps you would take to perform a thorough oral cancer screening, including the specific signs and symptoms you would look for and the areas you would examine.
As a Candidate:
Highlight your patient care experience. Your answers to the interview questions will be an opportunity highlight your experiences with patient care. As a dental hygienist, you are the one who will be working with patients all day long so the interviewer wants to be sure you have the experience and knowledge to handle patients with care.
Prepare questions to ask the interviewer. Create a list of question to ask the interviewer. These questions should relate back to the job. Asking questions will show your interest in the position and allow you to get to know the organization and their culture more. Example questions to ask at a dental hygienist interview include:
Can you provide insights into the practice's approach to preventive care and patient education?
What professional development opportunities are available for dental hygienists in this practice?
Can you tell me more about the patient population that I would be working with in this dental practice?
Research the dental practice. You should research the organization that you are applying to prior to your interview. You should be familiar with their mission, values, services offered, and patient demographics. This information will help you answer questions during the interview.
As an Interviewer:
Take notes. As an interviewer, it's your job to take notes on the skills and experiences the candidate talks about. Pay close attention to the skills they highlight in their answers. Your notes will also help you evaluate them later on.
Create a list of questions. The questions you create to ask the candidate during the job interview should be a mix of common questions along with dental hygienist behavioral interview questions. Asking these types of questions will allow you to get to know the candidate better while assessing how they may handle and react to specific situations.
Be prepared to answer questions. You should be prepared to answer questions about the dental practice's culture, patient population, and any professional development opportunities your organization has to offer. The types of questions asked will show you how engaged the candidate is.