Dental School Interview Questions UK Applicants Get Asked (With Model Answers)

Dec 8

What to Expect in a UK Dental School Interview

Format: Most UK dental schools use either a panel interview or a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format. In a panel interview, you face a small panel of interviewers and answer questions in a more conversational setting. MMIs involve rotating through several stations with different tasks or questions – for example, discussing a scenario, answering ethical questions, or even a role-play. Each station assesses a specific skill or quality, and you’ll have a short time to respond at each one. For instance, the University of Dundee uses a 7-station MMI, where candidates tackle questions, scenarios, and a role-play, all designed to test qualities needed in a good dentist. The key thing to remember is that no prior clinical knowledge is required – interviewers are interested in how you think and respond, not in dental facts you haven’t been taught yet.

Setting and Environment: Interviews usually take place in the winter months (often December to February) and can be in-person or online. If it’s in-person, it might be at the dental school itself – sometimes including a tour of facilities. Online interviews are often via platforms like Zoom or Blackboard Collaborate, and if you’re an international applicant some schools offer this option. Dress smartly and professionally (your school uniform or a suit is fine), and ensure you won’t be disturbed if interviewing from home. Remember, the interview isn’t an interrogation – interviewers will often be friendly and try to put you at ease if you get flustered. They want you to do your best! 😊

What Are Interviewers Looking For?

Interviewers have a checklist of qualities and attributes that every successful dental student (and future dentist) should demonstrate. According to official guidance, you will be assessed on things like:

Motivation and commitment: Are you truly passionate about dentistry and prepared for the hard work ahead?
Communication skills: Can you express yourself clearly? Will you be able to explain complex information to patients and listen to their concerns?
Empathy and interpersonal skills: Do you show understanding and care for others? A good dentist is patient, compassionate, and reassuring with nervous patients.
Teamwork: Dentists work in teams with nurses, technicians and other staff. Expect questions about how you work with others.
Integrity and professionalism: Dental schools want students who are honest and have a strong sense of ethics. They may pose dilemmas to see if you appreciate the importance of professionalism.
Resilience: Training and working as a dentist can be tough. They might ask how you handle stress or feedback to ensure you can cope with challenges.
Manual dexterity and attention to detail: Dentistry is a very hands-on career. You might be asked about hobbies that demonstrate fine motor skills, or even be asked to complete a small task to showcase your dexterity (for example, some schools have asked candidates to thread a needle or build something simple).

Interviews for UK dental schools often focus on core qualities needed to be a good dentist – communication, empathy, teamwork, integrity – as well as manual dexterity. These qualities are considered “hugely important in shaping the kind of dentist you will be,” according to the University of Dundee.

Above all, interviewers want to gauge if you have the aptitude and attitude to thrive in dental school and eventually practise as a safe, caring dentist. Keep these qualities in mind as you prepare your answers, and think of examples from your own experiences that demonstrate each one.

How to Prepare for Your Dental School Interview

Preparing thoroughly will boost your confidence and performance. Here are some key preparation tips:

Research the school: Know the details of the course and university you’re interviewing for. Every dental school is slightly different (teaching style, facilities, ethos). If it’s Sheffield, do they have a state-of-the-art simulation clinic? If it’s King’s College London, are they known for research or outreach programs? Be ready to answer “Why do you want to study here?” with specifics. As one guide puts it: talk about the course’s unique points (like awards or special training methods), then about the university environment (e.g. friendly campus, city life)applytouni.com. This shows genuine interest.
Review your personal statement: Many interview questions will stem from things you wrote. If you mentioned work experience or a particular hobby in your personal statement, you can bet you’ll be asked about it! Re-read your UCAS personal statement and be prepared to expand on anything in itapplytouni.com. For example, if you talked about volunteering at a care home, be ready for “Can you tell us what you learned from that experience?”. Don’t get caught forgetting what you yourself wrote.
Know common questions & practise answers: Certain questions always come up (we’ll cover these in the next section 🎓). It’s a great idea to make a list of common interview questions and bullet-point some key ideas for eachapplytouni.com. You don’t need a perfect script (in fact, don’t memorize full answers – you’ll sound roboticapplytouni.com), but do have a sense of how you’d structure your response. Practice answering out loud, either to yourself or with a friend/teacher in a mock interview. This helps you find the right words and get comfortable speaking about yourself.
Brush up on dental topics and current issues: You are not expected to have deep clinical knowledge, but basic awareness helps. Make sure you understand what dentistry involves (e.g. different specialties like orthodontics or oral surgery – just a broad idea), and stay up to date with hot topics in UK dentistry. Hot topics might include: the NHS dentist shortage, debates about NHS funding, water fluoridation, or new technologies (like AI in dentistry). Read the news (BBC, Guardian health section) or dental news (the British Dental Association website or journals). If something big has been in the news – for example, many NHS dentists going private – an interviewer could well ask your opinion on it. Having a bit of context will allow you to give a thoughtful answer. (Tip: The British Dental Association and General Dental Council websites are good sources for professional issues.)
Reflect on your work experience: Almost every dental applicant will have done some form of work experience or shadowing – whether in a general dental practice, hospital, or even something like volunteering with a community health project. Don’t just recount what you saw; think deeply about what you learned. What surprised you? What challenged you? How did it confirm (or even challenge) your desire to be a dentist? Being able to discuss your work experience insightfully will impress interviewers. Even if you couldn’t get much due to COVID or other reasons, you can talk about any alternatives you pursued (like dental webinars, online work experience programs, etc.) and what you gained from them.
Plan logistics and practice calm: If in-person, figure out when and where you need to be. Nothing adds stress like getting lost on the day! If online, test your internet, camera, and microphone beforehand. Plan to join the meeting early. Have your photo ID ready (universities will check it). On the day, use relaxation techniques to manage nerves: take deep breaths, smile, and remember that it’s normal to be nervous. Interviewers expect it and will often be kind if you need a moment. One tip is to pause briefly before answering a question – it’s not awkward, it shows you’re thoughtful. And if you mishear or don’t understand a question, it’s absolutely fine to ask for clarification.
Stay professional but be yourself: Treat the interview like a professional conversation. Be polite, make eye contact, and listen actively. But also let your personality shine through – dental schools want friendly, genuine people. As the BlackStone Tutors (an interview coaching service) note, showing a bright, smiley, approachable persona really matters, since dentistry is a people-focused career. So don’t be afraid to smile (yes, even in an interview about teeth 😄) and show enthusiasm.

Now that we’ve covered preparation, let’s dive into specific interview questions you’re likely to encounter – with example model answers and analysis for each. Remember, these model answers are just examples. You’ll want to tailor your own answers to your personal experiences and reasons – but they’ll give you an idea of what a strong response might sound like.

Common Dental School Interview Questions & Model Answers (UK)

Below are some of the most common questions UK dental school applicants get asked, along with model answers to guide you. These cover a range of themes – motivation, personal insight, ethical scenarios, and knowledge of the field. 💡 Tip: After each model answer, we’ve included notes or tips to highlight why it’s effective. Use these examples to inspire your own answers.

1. “Why do you want to study Dentistry?”

This is almost guaranteed to be asked in some form – and you must have a well-thought-out answerreadyapplytouni.com. The interviewers want to hear what drives you, how you became interested in dentistry, and whether you understand what the career involves. Avoid clichés (“I like teeth” won’t cut it!) or giving a generic answer. Your response should be personal, genuine, and informed. Mention experiences that solidified your interest, the aspects of dentistry that excite you, and the qualities that make you suited to it. There’s really no excuse for stumbling on this questionapplytouni.com, so practice it until you can deliver it smoothly but sincerely.

Model Answer: “Ever since I had my braces as a young teenager, I’ve been fascinated by dentistry. I remember how my orthodontist not only straightened my teeth but also boosted my confidence with a new smile – and that inspired me. I shadowed my own dentist last summer and loved the mix of science and hands-on work I saw every day. I was particularly struck by how dentists can relieve someone’s pain and improve their quality of life so immediately. I’m also a very practical person – I love working with my hands, whether it’s crafting or painting – and dentistry is a perfect blend of art and science. Ultimately, I want a career where I help people, build lasting relationships with patients, and continuously learn. Dentistry offers all of that. I’m excited about the idea that as a dentist I could make someone feel comfortable and healthy, and go home knowing I made a direct difference.”

🗝️ Why this answer works: It covers several important bases. First, it shows personal motivation – the candidate cites a specific early experience (having braces) that sparked their interest. Then, it mentions work experience/shadowing and reflects on what was learned (the mix of science and practical skill, seeing patient care in action). The answer highlights a desire to help people (improving quality of life, relieving pain) which shows altruism. Importantly, the candidate connects their own qualities/hobbies to dentistry – noting manual dexterity through crafting/painting, which is highly relevant to the profession. The answer feels genuine and enthusiastic. It’s also specific (not just “I want to help people” in a vacuum, but tied to dentistry). This is the kind of well-rounded, sincere answer interviewers love. (Notice there’s no awkward joke or superficial reason like “I want to be called doctor” – it’s focused on meaningful motivations.)

2. “Why did you apply to this university?”

This question tests whether you’ve done your homework on the school and if you’re truly interested in them (not just desperate for any dental place). Each dental school in the UK has something that makes it unique – it could be their teaching style, location, curriculum structure, facilities, or even ethos. Interviewers want to see that you’ve thought about how their program suits you and vice versa. To prepare, research the dental school’s website, prospectus, and any open day notes. Look for things like: do they offer early clinical experience? Problem-based learning or traditional lectures? What student opportunities (research, outreach, societies) appeal to you? Mention specific aspects and genuinely why you like them. Also, consider the geography and community – maybe you’re excited to study in London/Birmingham/Glasgow (wherever) and why. Be honest but tactful (don’t say “because I didn’t get into the others”! 😅). If the uni is your hometown, you can mention appreciating family support nearby, etc., alongside academic reasons.

Model Answer: “There were a few reasons I was drawn to Brighton and Sussex Dental School. First, the course structure really suits my learning style – I love that Brighton integrates clinical practice from year one. When I visited on the open day, I was impressed by the brand new simulation clinic with its cutting-edge tech; I could really picture myself practising crown preps in there! I also spoke to a couple of current students who praised the supportive atmosphere – they said the staff are approachable and genuinely care about student wellbeing. That really resonated with me. Outside of academics, I’m excited about studying in Brighton. It’s a vibrant, welcoming city, and the community outreach programmes the dental school runs – like free dental check-ups for the local care homes – show they really engage with the community. I want to be part of a school that not only excels in teaching but also gives back, and that’s why I’m convinced this is the right place for me.”

🗝️ Tips for this question: This example answer is packed with specifics: it names the school and points out particular features (integrated clinical practice from year one, new simulation clinic) – this shows the candidate did their research. It also mentions speaking to students, highlighting the school’s supportive atmosphere (culture/feel can be a good angle to mention if you have evidence). The candidate ties it back to personal preference (“suits my learning style”, “I want to be part of a school that gives back”). For your own answer, identify 2–3 key points about each of your interview schools that genuinely attract you. It might be their teaching approach, a unique intercalated degree option, renowned professors, research opportunities, location, or even things like their emphasis on practical skills. And if you can sprinkle in a little flattery (“renowned for clinical excellence” – only if true! – or “fits my values”), that never hurts. Just be sure you’re honest and not over-the-top. This is your chance to show enthusiasm for them, so don’t hold back your positive comments. Remember, universities want students who want them!

3. “What qualities make a good dentist?”

Here, interviewers assess if you understand the demands of the profession and if you personally might have some of those qualities. They’re also checking your insight and maturity – can you look beyond academics and see what being a dentist truly entails? A strong answer will list a few key qualities with reasoning or examples. Common ones to mention include: communication skills, empathy, manual dexterity, attention to detail, problem-solving ability, teamwork, integrity, patience, and resilience. You don’t have to list them all (and certainly don’t rattle off a dozen like a grocery list 🍎); pick a solid 3–5 and elaborate a bit on each. If possible, relate them to experiences you’ve had or observed.

Model Answer: “I think a great dentist needs a blend of technical skill and personal qualities. Manual dexterity and attention to detail are obviously crucial – dentists work in very tiny spaces in the mouth, so a steady hand and precision are a must. But equally, communication skills are vital: a good dentist can explain treatment options in simple terms and make sure patients feel comfortable and informed. I’ve seen how important this is during my work experience – the dentist I shadowed would always calmly talk patients through what he was doing, which really put them at ease. Empathy and patience are other key qualities. Many people are anxious about dental visits, so being caring and patient – taking the time to listen – can turn a frightening appointment into a positive one. Teamwork is important too, since dentists don’t work alone; they need to respect and collaborate with their dental nurses and other staff. Finally, professionalism and integrity are essential – patients trust dentists with their health, so things like honesty and putting the patient’s interest first make a huge difference in patient care.”

🗝️ Discussion: This answer covers a range of qualities and, importantly, gives a little detail for each rather than just naming them. It shows the candidate understands why each quality matters (e.g. why communication is needed, why empathy helps with nervous patients). The reference to work experience (“the dentist I shadowed…”) is a nice touch, as it demonstrates they’ve observed these qualities in action. Interviewers will appreciate that level of reflection. The answer also balances technical skill (dexterity) with soft skills (communication, empathy) – acknowledging that dentistry is not just about clinical skill but also human interaction. Notice the inclusion of teamwork and integrity, which sometimes candidates forget – dentistry is often seen as dentist-and-patient only, but behind every great dentist is usually a great team. And integrity (ethical practice) is something the General Dental Council insists on for all dentists. To answer a question like this, you could picture your own family dentist or a mentor and think: “What makes them good at their job?” then frame your answer around that (with general reasons, not personal anecdotes about “my dentist is great because…” unless specifically asked). Using professional guidelines as a guide can help too – for example, dental school competencies often mention communication, professionalism, etc., which validates your points.

4. “What do you think are the biggest challenges or negative aspects of a career in dentistry?”

This question tests whether you have a realistic understanding of dentistry – it’s not all smiles and sunshine 😁. Every job has downsides, and dentistry can be demanding. A strong candidate is aware of the challenges but isn’t deterred by them (in fact, they’ve thought about how to handle them). Common challenges in dentistry include: high levels of stress, physical strain (back/neck issues from long hours hunched over), dealing with anxious or difficult patients, the risk of things going wrong/complaints, keeping up with technological advances and ongoing learning, and in the UK, pressures on NHS dentistry (time constraints, targets, bureaucracy). Also, dental school itself is challenging – five years of intensive study and practice. In your answer, mention a few negatives candidly, but always temper it by showing you’re prepared to face them or that the positives outweigh the negatives. You want to show resilience and pragmatism, not that you’re scared off.

Model Answer: “I know dentistry can be a challenging career at times. For one, it can be stressful and demanding – dentists have to maintain intense focus for long hours, and there’s a lot of pressure to get every procedure right (since even small mistakes can have consequences for a patient’s health). It’s also quite physically demanding; I’ve heard many dentists experience back or neck pain from years of leaning over patients. Another challenge is that not everyone loves coming to the dentist – in fact, some patients are very anxious or even uncooperative. As a dentist you need to stay calm and patient in those situations, which can be tough. There are also the academic and professional pressures: dentistry is a lifelong learning profession, with new technologies and treatments coming out – you have to continuously update your skills. And if you work in the NHS, I realise there can be constraints like short appointment slots and a lot of demand, which might be frustrating when you want to provide the best care. Despite these challenges, I’m actually looking forward to tackling them. I handle stress well and I see these “negatives” as part of a worthwhile job – for example, helping a nervous patient overcome their fear can be incredibly rewarding. Knowing about these challenges has only made me more determined to develop myself during dental school so I can manage them in my future career.”

🗝️ Insight: This answer lists a realistic set of challenges: stress, physical strain, patient anxiety, need for lifelong learning, NHS system pressures. It shows the candidate has done their research (mentioning common issues like NHS time constraints). Importantly, the answer doesn’t stop at “here are the negatives” – it continues to show a positive attitude towards them (“I’m looking forward to tackling them”; “these have made me more determined”). That second part is crucial – you don’t want to come off as if you’re already dreading the job you claim to love! Interviewers ask this to see if you have balanced expectations and resilience. Citing the challenges and then addressing how you’d cope or why you accept them demonstrates maturity. It’s fine to admit dentistry is hard; just follow up with why you’re up for it. Also, note the mention of “I handle stress well” – if you say that, be prepared for a possible follow-up like “How do you handle stress? Can you give an example?” (We’ll actually cover that next!) So make sure any claim you make (e.g. “I have good time management” or “I don’t crack under pressure”) is something you can support with a brief example if probed.

5. “Tell us about your work experience in dentistry.”

Nearly all UK dental schools expect applicants to have tried to get some work experience or shadowing – and they love to ask about it. This isn’t just a retelling of your CV; they specifically want to see that you learned something and reflected on the experience. A good answer will briefly describe what you did (“I spent two weeks at a general dental practice” or “I shadowed an orthodontist for a day” or “I volunteered at a dental clinic through a charity”) and then focus on insights gained: what did you observe about the dentist-patient interaction? What impressed or surprised you? Did it confirm your desire to do dentistry? Maybe mention a particular incident that taught you something (while maintaining patient anonymity of course). Even if your work experience was limited (say, due to COVID), talk about any relevant experience – even if you watched online webinars or did an observation via video call. And if you have none (which is rare nowadays), at least mention how you’ve spoken to dentists or used other resources to understand the career. The key is to show you didn’t just passively watch – you thought critically about it and it strengthened your ambition.

Model Answer: “I spent a week shadowing at my local dental practice and it was a real eye-opener. I was mainly observing a general dentist and her nurse. One thing that struck me was how important teamwork is – I saw how the dentist and nurse communicated almost silently at times, anticipating each other’s needs with suction, instruments, etc. It made procedures run so smoothly, and it taught me that dentistry is very much a team effort. I also got to observe the human side of dentistry: in one appointment, a patient was very anxious about getting a tooth filled. The dentist was so patient and reassuring – she took time to talk softly to the patient and even used a bit of humour to lighten the mood. It was great to see how empathy and good communication can turn a nervous patient into a calm one. I also noticed the dentist had to wear many hats – in one afternoon she went from doing a cosmetic whitening consult to an emergency appointment for someone with toothache. It showed me how varied the work can be. Overall, the experience confirmed for me that I really want to be a dentist. I loved the atmosphere of the clinic – that mix of professionalism and care – and every day I left more excited to join the profession. I even asked the dentist lots of questions during lunch breaks, like how she stays updated with new techniques, and hearing her passion just fueled mine further.”

🗝️ What this shows: The candidate doesn’t just say “I observed X procedure” or “I saw lots of teeth being fixed.” Instead, they picked out meaningful observations: the importance of teamwork, the communication strategies with an anxious patient, the variety in a dentist’s day. This demonstrates reflective learning, which is exactly what interviewers are looking for. They explicitly state the experience confirmed their desire – a nice touch, as it ties the experience back to motivation. Mentioning asking the dentist questions also shows proactiveness and genuine curiosity. When you answer about work experience, try to include at least one anecdote or example (like the anxious patient scenario here) and what you learned from it. Keep it patient-respectful (no names or identifying details) and focus on your takeaway, not the technical details of the treatment. Even something as simple as observing how a dentist manages time, or the way the practice is organized, can be a point to mention if you learned from it. If you did multiple placements (e.g. a general practice and a hospital oral surgery department), you can compare/contrast one thing you learned from each. Just be careful not to ramble on too long; pick highlights that show different aspects of the profession. And if you lacked formal work experience, talk about alternative insights gained (maybe you have a family member who’s a dentist you spoke to, or you did a lot of reading/viewing). Show that you’ve taken initiative to understand the career.

6. “How do you cope with stress or pressure?”

Dentistry can be stressful – balancing a heavy workload, treating anxious patients, perhaps running a business, all require resilience. So interviewers want to know if you have healthy coping mechanisms and can handle the pressure of dental school (and beyond). This is essentially a question about resilience and wellbeing. A good answer might mention specific strategies you use (time management, exercise, hobbies, talking to others) and perhaps give an example of a time you dealt with a stressful situation successfully. It’s okay to admit stress affects you (we’re all human), but show that you are proactive in dealing with it. Avoid answers that might raise red flags (e.g. “I just push through and don’t sleep” or “I bottle it up” 😬). They want to hear that you have balance and awareness.

Model Answer: “I handle stress by staying organized and keeping perspective. I’m a big list-maker – when I have a lot on, like during my A-Levels, I would write down everything I needed to do and break it into a plan. That really helps me not feel overwhelmed, because I can tackle tasks one by one. I also make sure to take breaks and look after myself. I love running – going for a short run clears my head when I’m feeling under pressure. During exam season, sticking to my evening jogs actually helped me study better because I’d come back refreshed. I’m also not afraid to talk to someone if I’m stressed – sometimes just chatting with a friend or my mum about what’s worrying me makes it feel more manageable and they often help me with a new perspective. For example, last year I had a week with coursework deadlines and a part-time job commitment all colliding; I was really stressed, but I told my tutor I was struggling a bit and they helped me prioritize what needed to be done first. I ended up getting everything done, and learned that asking for support is okay. So in dental school, if I ever feel overwhelmed, I will definitely remember to stay organized, keep up my hobbies for balance, and lean on my support network to help me through.”

🗝️ Resilience check: This answer shows self-awareness and practical strategies. The candidate mentions time management (lists, plans), exercise, and seeking support – all very good signs of healthy coping. They even give a concrete example of a stressful period and how they handled it by communicating with a tutor, which demonstrates maturity. Interviewers for healthcare courses love to see that you won’t burn out at the first hurdle; here the student sounds balanced and proactive, which is reassuring. When crafting your answer, think about what genuinely works for you – whether it’s playing music, baking, yoga, a good night’s sleep routine, or having a friend to vent to. It doesn’t have to be dramatic; even saying “I make sure to maintain hobbies like football on weekends to relax” is great. The key is to show you won’t crumble under pressure and that you recognize the importance of mental health. Also, by giving an example of a past stressful scenario (doesn’t have to be life-or-death, just a challenge) and how you coped, you make your answer more believable and personal. Resilience is something dental schools actively assess, so a question like this is a prime opportunity to demonstrate it.

7. “Dentistry requires good manual dexterity. Do you have any hobbies or experiences that demonstrate your manual skills?”

Dental interviews often include this question or a variant, because manual dexterity (hand skill and hand-eye coordination) is crucial for a dentist. In fact, some schools even incorporate a manual dexterity test – for example, asking applicants to carve a piece of soap or tie a tiny knot – as part of the interview! Even if there’s no test, they’ll likely ask you to describe how you’ve developed your fine motor skills. Everyone’s different here, so think of hands-on hobbies you genuinely do. Common ones applicants mention include: playing a musical instrument (piano, guitar, violin – all great for finger dexterity), painting or drawing, sewing or knitting, model building, crafts (origami, jewelry making, pottery), cooking/baking (lots of detail work, e.g. cake decorating), sports that involve precision (archery, for instance), gaming (surprisingly, some mention video games – but if you do, spin it positively like hand-eye coordination, not just “I play a lot of Xbox” 😉). You might also mention school activities like art classes or design & technology projects. The key is to show you enjoy working with your hands and have some evidence of skill. If you don’t have a typical hobby, even something like “I’ve been repairing electronics” or “I learned calligraphy” can work. And if asked at an in-person interview, be prepared that they might say “Oh, you do origami? Here, show us by folding this paper” – so don’t fib!

Model Answer: “Yes – I do have hobbies that have helped me develop my manual dexterity. One of my main ones is playing the guitar. I’ve been playing since I was about 12, and over the years I’ve really built up finger strength and coordination (for example, quickly switching chords with my left hand while strumming with my right). I also think it’s given me patience for practising fine movements repeatedly, which is relevant to dentistry. Another hobby I love is origami – making those intricate paper cranes and flowers requires a steady hand and attention to tiny details. In fact, I found it almost therapeutic and it definitely improved my hand-eye coordination. I brought a couple of examples of my origami models in my portfolio, if you’d like to see. Additionally, in art class I did a lot of sketching and sculpting, where I had to be precise with my hands. For instance, sculpting a clay model of a face taught me how slight pressure changes can alter the outcome. I believe all these activities – guitar, origami, art – have given me a good foundation in manual dexterity. Of course, I’ll need to refine it further for actual dental skills, but I’m confident and excited to do so.”

🗝️ Notes: The answer lists a few different activities – which is good, it shows breadth. Importantly, it doesn’t just name them; it briefly explains how each contributes to dexterity (guitar: finger coordination and practice; origami: steady hand and detail; sculpting: precision of pressure). This demonstrates insight – connecting the hobby to dentistry relevance. Mentioning that they have examples in a portfolio is something that could be done if true (some candidates bring a portfolio of achievements/hobbies to traditional interviews – if you do, be prepared to show it!). Even if not, just talking about it in vivid detail helps the interviewer visualize your skill. This candidate also expresses willingness to continue improving, which is humble and realistic. One more thing: if you don’t have a clear hobby like these, consider starting one before your interview! It’s never too late to pick up a bit of knitting or model kit building – not only for the interview, but it genuinely does help your skills and gives you something to chat about passionately. However, only mention it if you actually do it, since they could easily probe further (“What songs have you learned on guitar?” or “What’s the hardest thing you folded in origami?” etc.). In summary: show you’re handyand take pride in working with your hands. Dental schools really value this, as confirmed by their own interview tips.

8. “How would you explain a complex dental procedure (or oral health concept) to a patient with no dental knowledge?” (Scenario-based communication question)

Communication is king (or queen!) in dentistry. A common interview task is to see how you’d communicate with laypeople. They might phrase it as above, or give you a specific scenario like “Imagine I’m a 7-year-old child – how would you teach me to brush my teeth properly?” or “How would you explain to a patient what gum disease is and how to prevent it, in simple terms?”. The idea is to test if you can break down technical information into plain, understandable English, and adjust your tone for the audience. Remember, as a dentist you’ll be talking to non-expertsall day. Jargon like “periodontal ligament” or “distal occlusion” will earn you blank stares – or interview panel frowns. So in these answers, focus on clarity, simplicity, and empathy. Use analogies if helpful, and check understanding. Since this is more of a skill demonstration than a factual question, a model answer will show the approach.

Model Answer (explaining tooth decay to a patient): “(Speaking as I would to a patient) Tooth decay is basically what happens when the sugars in the food you eat turn into acids that can attack your tooth. Think of it like this: your tooth has a hard outer shell called enamel. If you have a lot of sugary snacks or drinks and don’t clean your teeth well, the bacteria – the little germs – in your mouth feed on that sugar and make acid. That acid is like a small enemy that can make tiny holes in the enamel, kind of like drilling into a hard surface. Over time, those tiny holes can get bigger and that’s what a cavity is. It might not hurt at first, but if the hole gets deep, it can reach the softer part inside your tooth and cause pain or infection. The good news is we can prevent this! Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste helps strengthen that enamel so it’s harder for the acid to make holes. Avoiding too many sugary snacks, especially between meals, also means there’s less fuel for those bacteria to create acids. And visiting us for regular check-ups means if we do spot any small holes, we can fix them with a small filling before they get worse. Does that make sense? Feel free to stop me if any of this is unclear – I want to make sure I’m explaining it well.”

🗝️ Why is this good? This answer (spoken in a patient-friendly tone) uses very simple language – notice words like “little germs” instead of “bacteria” (though “bacteria” was used once but immediately called little germs to clarify), “hard outer shell” for enamel, “holes” for cavities. It also uses an analogy (“like drilling into a hard surface”) to create a mental image. It avoids jargon – no mention of “demineralisation” or “Streptococcus mutans” (definite overkill for a layperson!). The answer also checks for understanding at the end (“Does that make sense? Please ask if unclear”), which is an excellent communication technique. It’s empathetic and inclusive. In an interview, you might not have an actual patient to ask, but saying you would check understanding is a bonus. If you get a question like this in an interview, take a deep breath and imagine a friend or relative in front of you who knows nothing about dentistry – then explain to them. Keep it simple and clear. The interviewers are effectively playing the role of the patient; they want to see that you wouldn’t intimidate or confuse someone. If the scenario is a child, simplify even more and perhaps add a bit of fun (“sugar bugs on your teeth”). If it’s an adult with, say, low health literacy, you’d likewise avoid any big words. This skill is exactly what real dentists need to do daily, so showing you grasp that will win you points. You might not need to cite facts here (the content isn’t being graded for scientific detail as much as clarity), but ensure you don’t say anything incorrect medically either. The above example covers the basics accurately in simple terms.

9. “Should dental treatment be free on the NHS for everyone?” (Ethical/critical thinking question)

Ethical or opinion-based questions are common in interviews. They want to see how you reason through an issue, especially one with no single “right” answer. NHS dentistry is a hot topic in the UK. Currently, NHS dental treatment is subsidised but not completely free for most adults – patients pay set charges for different bands of treatment, except certain groups (children, low-income, etc.). This question is essentially asking you to weigh the arguments for and against making dentistry completely free at point of use, like GP visits are. A strong answer will show awareness of the issue (maybe the fact that access to NHS dentists is a problem in some areas) and then present a balanced view with some justification. It’s fine to pick a side (yes or no), but acknowledging the other side’s points shows you’re thoughtful. Remember to keep your tone measured; it’s about showing you can discuss professionally, not rant or solve the whole NHS budget in 2 minutes. Also, structure your answer clearly: perhaps “On one hand... On the other hand... My view is...” or similar.

Model Answer: *“That’s a very interesting question. On one hand, I believe essential dental care is part of overall health, so making it free for everyone could ensure that no one delays treatment due to cost. We already see that some people avoid going to the dentist because they can’t afford it, and their problems get worse. If check-ups and necessary treatments were free, it might improve the nation’s dental health by encouraging people to seek care early rather than waiting until they’re in pain. It could also reduce inequalities – right now, children and certain groups get free NHS dental care, but many working adults struggle with the fees. In an ideal world, teeth are as important as any other body part, so healthcare should cover it fully.

On the other hand, there are practical challenges. Providing completely free dentistry would require a lot more funding for the NHS. The government would have to invest significantly to pay dental practices for all that work. There’s already a shortage of NHS dentists in some areas, and if suddenly everyone wanted free treatment, the system might not cope unless it’s expanded. Some might argue that a fair compromise is the current system – basic care is subsidised and relatively affordable, and those who want more complex or cosmetic procedures can pay privately. Also, if everything were free, demand could skyrocket for even minor issues, potentially leading to long waiting times or strains on resources.

Personally, I think preventive and emergency dental care should be as accessible as possible – ideally low-cost or free – because oral health has such a big impact on overall health and quality of life. Maybe a middle ground would be to make routine check-ups and preventive treatments free (to encourage everyone to go), but have a modest charge for more advanced procedures to help cover costs. It’s a complex issue, but ultimately I’d lean towards reducing financial barriers to dental care, as long as it’s paired with proper funding and planning so dentists are supported to meet the demand.”*

🗝️ Analysis: This answer weighs both sides thoughtfully. It shows awareness of current policy (e.g. children free, adults pay) and current issues (people avoiding dentist due to cost, NHS dentist shortage) without getting too deep into policy jargon. The candidate presents benefits of free dental care (access, equality, prevention) and the challenges (funding, increased demand, strain on system). They then give a nuanced personal stance (free prevention, partial charges for other things as a compromise). This kind of balanced reasoning is exactly what interviewers hope for in ethical questions. Key tip: In questions like this, there is not a single correct answer; what matters is that you considered multiple perspectives and justified your opinion. Always avoid extreme statements like “Absolutely it should be free, there’s no excuse!” or the opposite “People should always pay for their teeth!” – those come off as naive. Also, be mindful of the role: as a future dentist, you’d want people to have care, but you also understand resources are finite. It’s a tricky balance, but showing you can think it through is the goal. Structuring your answer in clear paragraphs (as in the model: argument for, argument against, conclusion) not only helps you, but also impresses the interviewers that you can organize your thoughts under pressure. A final note: stay updated on any current developments – for example, if a political party just announced a plan about NHS dentistry, it wouldn’t hurt to reference that knowledge in passing (it shows you’re clued in). However, don’t turn it into a political rant – keep it focused on patient care and system capacity, as we did above.

10. “Why dentistry and not medicine?”

Ah, the classic cousin question. Many skills and qualities overlap between doctors and dentists, and interviewers sometimes like to poke at your motivation by asking why you chose dentistry over another healthcare field like medicine (or sometimes, why not dental hygiene/therapy, etc.). They want to ensure you aren’t applying to dentistry half-heartedly or as a “backup” to medicine. A strong answer will highlight the aspects of dentistry that set it apartfrom medicine and why those appeal to you personally. Good points to mention: dentistry offers a lot of hands-on procedural work and immediate results; dentists are specialists of the oral health field from the get-go; you often build long-term relationships with patients (seeing them regularly for years, which a surgeon or similar might not); dentistry combines art and science (e.g. sculpting a filling or designing a denture is quite artistic); dentists also often have an independent practice and can be their own boss (though careful how you mention this – “I want to be my own boss” can sound a bit off if not phrased well, but it is a difference); also lifestyle might be a tad more predictable (again careful, you don’t want to sound like you chose it because it’s easier). If you did consider medicine, be honest that you did but then explain why dentistry drew you more. The goal is to show you know the unique nature of dentistry and that your passion lies there specifically.

Model Answer: *“For me, the decision between medicine and dentistry came down to where I could see myself being happiest and making the biggest impact. I actually explored both – I did a hospital work experience week as well as time in a dental clinic. I realised I was especially drawn to dentistry for a few reasons. First, I love working with my hands and I’ve always been a bit artistic; dentistry gives you the chance to do practical, delicate work every day. For example, when shadowing a dentist, I was fascinated watching her sculpt a filling to fit the tooth perfectly – that mix of medical knowledge and hands-on craftsmanship really appealed to me, whereas in general medicine I noticed there were fewer opportunities to physically do that kind of precise work.

Second, I’m attracted by the fact that as a dentist you often get to build long-term relationships with your patients. You might see the same families year after year and really follow their progress, which is wonderful. In medicine, doctors can have long-term patients too, but many specialties don’t allow the same regular contact that general dental practice does. I like the idea of being that trusted healthcare professional who sees someone routinely and can watch their confidence grow as you improve their smile or relieve their pain.

Lastly, I find the scope of dentistry – focusing on oral health – really compelling. It’s a specialised field where I can become an expert in one area, yet it’s still very broad within (from preventative care to surgery to aesthetics). I also appreciate that dentists are at the frontline of prevention and education, and I’m passionate about things like encouraging good oral hygiene from a young age. Dentistry just clicked with me more; when I was in the dental clinic, I felt excited about the work I saw, whereas in the hospital (while I respected it) I didn’t feel the same spark. So that’s how I knew dentistry was the right path for me, rather than medicine.”*

🗝️ Why this stands out: This answer clearly differentiates the two fields in a positive way (no bashing of medicine, just “dentistry fits me better”). The candidate gives three distinct reasons: love for hands-on artistic work, desire for long-term patient relationships, and passion for the specific scope of dentistry. They even draw on personal experience of having tried both in work experiences – which adds credibility to their decision process. It shows reflective thinking (they noticed differences in how they felt in each setting). They mentioned the artistry and craftsmanship in dentistry – a point that often resonates, since dentistry is unique in that sense. Also, they touched on the prevention/education role of dentists, which is a nice bonus point. When you answer this, think about what you find in dentistry that you wouldn’t get in medicine. Common answers are indeed the manual aspect and being an expert of one area. Some also mention lifestyle – e.g. more regular hours compared to an A&E doctor – but be cautious; if you mention lifestyle, frame it like “I prefer the idea of a more planned routine where I can have a family life alongside work, and I’ve observed that many dentists can achieve a good work-life balance, which is important to me.” This is honest, but ensure you don’t sound like you think dentistry is easy or only a 9–5 job (dentistry can be very intense too). Always bring it back to passion: “Dentistry excites me in ways medicine doesn’t, and here’s why.” If you considered medicine or other fields, it’s okay to acknowledge it; it shows you made an informed choice. The interviewers just want to be sure you aren’t using dentistry as a consolation prize. After an answer like this, they’ll be convinced you’re genuinely keen on dentistry for the right reasons.

11. “What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses?”

This classic interview question is universal (not just for dental schools) – and it often comes up. Interviewers want to see self-awareness and honesty, but also tact. The twist in a dental school context is that you should try to relate your strengths to dentistry, and pick a weakness that isn’t a deal-breaker for the course and show how you’re working on it. Strengths: choose 2–3 strengths that are relevant (e.g. good communicator, strong work ethic, organized, manual dexterity, empathy, teamwork, leadership, ability to handle pressure). Don’t just claim them – give a brief example or evidence for each (like “my teachers often praise my organization; for instance, I balanced 3 A-levels with a part-time job”). Weaknesses: Choose one (or two at most) genuine weakness, but minor enough not to make them doubt your ability to cope with dental school. Common ones applicants mention: being a bit of a perfectionist, or being shy to begin with, or needing to be more assertive, or struggling with delegating tasks because you like to do things yourself, etc. Don’t say “I’m lazy” or “I have poor time management” – that’s too alarming. And crucially, always follow up a weakness with what you’re doing to improve it. Show that you can self-improve. The goal is to show humility and growth, not to trip yourself up.

Model Answer: *“I’d say two of my strengths are staying calm under pressure and having strong empathy for others. For example, during my final year exams, rather than panicking, I created a revision schedule and stuck to it – I actually thrive with deadlines and I don’t get flustered easily. I think this will be useful in dentistry where you have to stay level-headed even if you have a busy clinic or a challenging procedure. As for empathy, I volunteer at a care home on weekends, and that’s taught me how to be patient and really listen to people’s concerns. I’ve had residents who just wanted someone to talk to, and I learned how much understanding and kindness can matter. In a dental context, I know being empathetic will help patients trust me and feel comfortable, especially those who are nervous.

When it comes to weaknesses, one thing I’m working on is my tendency to be a perfectionist. I pay a lot of attention to details – which can be good in dentistry – but sometimes I might spend too long trying to perfect something. For instance, in art class I could tweak a painting endlessly. I’m learning to balance this by setting myself time limits for tasks and prioritising which details matter most. In fact, I’ve improved on this in my recent projects by focusing on getting the broader work done first before obsessing over tiny details. I’ve realised that in a busy environment (like dental school or clinic), sometimes ‘good enough’ and on time is better than ‘perfect’ but late. I’ll continue working on finding that balance. Besides that, I used to be a bit shy speaking up in groups, but I pushed myself by joining the debate club, which really helped my confidence. I’m much better now at voicing my thoughts among peers. I know in dental school there’s a lot of teamwork and case discussions, so I’m glad I improved that during college. I’ll keep challenging myself to be more outgoing and assertive.”*

🗝️ Evaluation: This answer does a great job. It presents two strengths with evidence (calm under pressure with an example, empathy with volunteering example) – that makes the claims credible. The strengths chosen are quite relevant to dentistry. Then for weaknesses, the candidate chooses “perfectionism” (a common but acceptable weakness – also somewhat a humblebrag that you care about quality, but it can be a real challenge). They explain how it can have downsides (time management issues) and importantly what they’re doing to improve (setting time limits, prioritising – showing growth). They even slipped in a secondary minor weakness (shyness in groups) but immediately showed how they addressed it (debate club). This extra bit shows they’re actively self-improving, which interviewers love to see. It’s okay if you just give one weakness, but make it a good, honest one with improvement steps. Notice the tone: confident but not arrogant about strengths, and honest but not defeatist about weaknesses. They didn’t say “I have no weaknesses” (big no-no) nor “I’m terrible at something vital.” They struck the right balance. Also, by relating strengths to dental school and practice, it shows they’re picturing themselves in the role already – a nice psychological win. One more tip: sometimes after you answer this, an interviewer might follow up with “How would your friends describe you in three words?” – which is essentially strengths from another angle. It’s worth having a few positive adjectives in mind that fit (e.g. “hard-working, approachable, and curious”). But the meat of it is the self-reflection, which we covered.

Final Tips and Closing Thoughts 🎉

Preparing for a dental school interview can feel intimidating, but remember: the interviewers are not trying to trip you up. In fact, they want you to do well. They’re looking for future colleagues, so they are hoping to see you at your best. Here are some final quick tips to leave you with:

Be yourself: While it’s important to be professional, let your personality shine. Smile, make eye contact, and engage with the interviewers. They appreciate authenticity and enthusiasm. Dental schools often say a large part of the interview is about getting to know you and seeing if you’ll fit their program. They’ve already seen your grades and personal statement – now they want to see the person behind the application.
Use the STAR technique for examples: For any question asking for a personal example (like teamwork or leadership or a challenge you overcame), structure your answer as Situation, Task, Action, Result. This keeps your story concise and clear.
Ethical questions – think aloud: If faced with an ethical scenario (e.g. “What would you do if you caught a classmate cheating?” or “How would you handle a patient who insists on getting all their healthy teeth pulled?”), walk through your thinking step by step. There may not be one correct answer, but they want to see you reason it out: consider guidelines (like GDC standards), patient’s best interest, seeking advice from a supervisor if appropriate, etc. Don’t rush to an answer; explain your thought process and show you can see multiple angles before concluding.
Ask insightful questions: Often at the end you get to ask them questions. Have one or two ready that show your genuine interest in their program. For example, you might ask about recent curriculum changes, or opportunities for research or outreach, or what students say they enjoy most at the school. Avoid questions easily answered on the website (tuition fees, etc.), and certainly avoid asking about salary or holidays – keep it academic and positive.
Stay positive throughout: Never badmouth a teacher, a job, or another field of study in your answers. Even if discussing challenges or weaknesses, keep the tone optimistic (as we did above, showing improvement or solutions). Dental schools want students who contribute to a positive cohort and can handle difficulties with a good attitude.
Practice, but don’t memorize: Do mock interviews, practice out loud, maybe record yourself, or practice on Zoom if your interview will be online (so you can get used to the format). But don’t script every answer word-for-word – you’ll sound unnatural. Instead, practice bullet-point speaking: know the 3-4 key points you’d hit for each common question, and work on delivering them smoothly in conversation. This way, you’ll sound prepared but not robotic.
Know the NHS and current hot topics: As mentioned, have a basic understanding of how NHS dentistry works (e.g. it’s mostly a mixed private/NHS system, with recent news of funding issues) and be aware of a couple of current issues (like the ones we integrated into answers above). You might not be asked, but if you are, you can impress with an informed answer.
Mind your body language: Especially for in-person – greet with a firm (but not crushing) handshake and a smile. Sit upright, try not to fidget excessively, and nod/listen actively during questions. If you blank out, it’s okay to take a short pause or ask, “Could I have a moment to think?” Better a thoughtful pause than blurt out something you regret. And if you feel one station went poorly in an MMI, shake it off and reset for the next one– each station is a fresh chance.

Finally, remember to enjoy the process. It’s easier said than done, but interviews are also a chance for you to learn about the school and meet faculty or students. Coming in with a mindset of curiosity and positivity can actually make you perform better than a mindset of pure fear. You’ve made it this far because dental schools see potential in you – the interview is about showcasing that potential in person.

Good luck, be confident, and show them the bright, budding dentist in you. You’ve got this! 🎓🦷✨

References (for further reading)

University of Dundee – BDS Dentistry Interview: Dundee’s official guidance on their interview process (7-station MMI assessing critical thinking, values, communication skills, etc.) dundee.ac.uk
Newcastle University – Interviews for Dental School: Overview of qualities assessed (preparation and motivation, teamwork, resilience, empathy, etc.) and tips on manual dexterity tasks and ethical questions ncl.ac.uk
British Dental Association (BDA) & News Sources: NHS Dentistry Crisis – Recent reports highlight funding and workforce issues in NHS dentistry (many dentists reducing NHS work or going fully private). Insight into why interviewers might ask about NHS vs private dentistry or current challenges.
General Dental Council – What We Do: The GDC is the UK’s dental regulator, responsible for protecting patients – they maintain the dentist register, set standards, and investigate complaints gdc-uk.org. Useful for questions on professional regulation or ethics.
StudyingHealthcare.ac.uk – Dentistry Interview Preparation: (UK healthcare careers resource) Emphasizes reflecting on work experience, being aware of body language, and reviewing your personal statement before interviews ncl.ac.uk.
Dental Schools Council – Admissions Advice: Though not a single document cited above, the collective advice from UK dental schools via their websites stresses the importance of enthusiasm, honesty, and demonstrating the values of a good dentist throughout your interview.

Imran Khan