Top 10 Questions for Dental Intern Interview

1. Describe the steps involved in planning and executing a dental restoration using indirect bonding.

Answer:

• Planning:
• Assess patient’s oral health, esthetics, and occlusion.
• Determine the extent and type of restoration required.
• Select appropriate materials and bonding agents.
• Execution:
• Prepare the tooth surface and restore the marginal integrity.
• Impress the prepared tooth to create a model for fabrication.
• Fabricate the indirect restoration (e.g., crown, bridge).
• Etch the restoration and tooth surface.
• Apply bonding agents and cement the restoration securely.

2. Explain the principles of cavity preparation for a Class II amalgam restoration.

Cavity Design Principles:

• Extension for Prevention: Extend margins into caries-susceptible areas.
• Resistance and Retention Form: Create walls with sufficient height and taper to resist masticatory forces.
• Convenience Form: Allow for access and instrumentation.
• Conservation of Tooth Structure: Remove only necessary tooth tissue.

Steps:

• Access Cavity: Remove decay and create access to the interproximal area.
• Occlusal Extension: Extend the cavity to prevent future decay.
• Mesial/Distal Walls: Create parallel walls for retention.
• Cervical Floor: Flat, parallel to the occlusal plane, and extended to sound dentin.

3. Discuss the factors to consider when selecting a dental implant system.

Answer:

• Patient factors: Age, medical history, oral anatomy, and esthetic goals.
• Implant design: Surface characteristics, biocompatibility, and prosthetic compatibility.
• Clinical factors: Bone quality and quantity, occlusion, and surrounding structures.
• Surgeon experience and preference: Expertise with specific systems and patient outcomes.
• Cost and availability: Implant cost, availability of components, and experience of local labs.

4. Describe the techniques used to restore anterior teeth with composite resin.

Answer:

• Isolation: Rubber dam or alternative methods to prevent contamination.
• Tooth Preparation: Etching, bonding, and any necessary reshaping.
• Layering Technique: Gradual application of different shades and translucencies to achieve esthetic results.
• Curing: Use of a light-curing unit to polymerize the resin.
• Finishing and Polishing: Shaping, smoothing, and polishing the restoration for final esthetics and function.

5. Explain the indications and contraindications for root canal therapy.

Indications:

• Irreversible pulpitis
• Apical periodontitis
• Perforated pulp chamber
• Severe tooth decay involving the pulp

Contraindications:

• Severe periodontal disease
• Vertical root fractures
• Unsupported tooth
• Unrestorable tooth structure

6. Describe the steps involved in performing a periodontal scaling and root planing procedure.

Answer:

• Initial Examination and Diagnosis: Assess periodontal health, probing depths, and bleeding.
• Preparation: Anesthesia, isolation, and debridement of supragingival plaque and calculus.
• Scaling: Removal of supragingival and subgingival calculus and plaque using ultrasonic scalers or hand instruments.
• Root Planing: Smoothing the root surface to remove remaining biofilm, calculus, and any infected dentin.
• Irrigation: Flushing the periodontal pockets with antimicrobial solutions or water.
• Post-Procedure: Instructions for home care, antibiotics if necessary, and re-evaluation appointment.

7. Explain the principles of oral surgery involving tooth extraction.

Answer:

• Assessment: Evaluate the tooth, surrounding structures, and medical history.
• Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia to minimize pain and discomfort.
• Elevators and Forceps: Use of instruments to loosen and extract the tooth.
• Sectioning: Dividing the tooth into smaller sections for easier removal in complex cases.
• Suturing: Closing the extraction site to promote healing and prevent infection.

8. Discuss the role of a dental assistant in infection control procedures.

Answer:

• Instrument Sterilization: Ensure proper sterilization of all instruments and equipment.
• Surface Disinfection: Clean and disinfect operatory surfaces, chair, and equipment regularly.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear gloves, masks, and other PPE to prevent cross-contamination.
• Hand Hygiene: Maintain proper handwashing techniques and use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• Patient Education: Inform patients about infection control measures and encourage them to follow protocols.

9. Describe the different types of dental imaging techniques and their clinical applications.

Answer:

• Radiographs (X-rays): Detect caries, periodontal disease, and anatomical structures (e.g., periapical, panoramic, bite-wing).
• Computed Tomography (CT): Cross-sectional images for detailed evaluation of complex cases (e.g., implant planning, TMJ disorders).
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Images of soft tissues (e.g., TMJ, salivary glands, soft tissue lesions).
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT): 3D images with high resolution (e.g., endodontic treatment planning, implant surgery).
• Intraoral Camera: Real-time images to visualize intraoral structures for patient education and documentation.

10. Explain the importance of patient communication and management in dental practice.

Answer:

• Build Rapport: Establish a positive relationship to gain patient trust and confidence.
• Communication Skills: Explain procedures clearly, address concerns, and listen attentively.
• Empathy: Understand and respond to patient emotions, fears, and pain levels.
• Treatment Consent: Obtain informed consent from patients after providing complete information about procedures and risks.
• Patient Education: Empower patients with knowledge about their oral health and treatment options.

Dental Interns are responsible for various tasks in a dental setting, including:

1. Assisting in Dental Procedures

Interns provide support to dentists during procedures such as:

• Mixing dental materials
• Handling dental instruments
• Providing suction and assistance

2. Performing Basic Dental Tasks

Interns may also independently perform certain basic dental tasks, such as:

• Taking dental X-rays
• Charting patient information
• Educating patients on oral hygiene

3. Maintaining Dental Equipment

Interns are responsible for maintaining dental equipment, including:

• Sterilizing instruments
• Setting up and breaking down equipment
• Cleaning and disinfecting work areas

4. Managing Paperwork and Communication

Interns are also involved in managing paperwork and communication, including:

• Scheduling appointments
• Answering phones and emails
• Filing patient records

To ace an interview for a Dental Intern position, candidates should consider the following tips:

1. Research the Practice and Industry

Research the dental practice and the dental industry in general. This will help you understand the company culture and the specific needs of the practice. You can also learn about the latest advancements in dentistry to show that you are up-to-date on the field.

2. Practice Your Answers to Common Questions

Practice answering common interview questions, such as “Why are you interested in dentistry?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” This will help you feel more confident and prepared during the interview.

3. Be Prepared to Discuss Your Experience

Be prepared to discuss your relevant work experience and skills. Highlight any experiences that are directly related to the responsibilities of a Dental Intern. If you have limited experience, emphasize your enthusiasm for the field and your willingness to learn.

4. Ask Thoughtful Questions

Asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview shows that you are engaged and interested in the position. Ask about the practice’s culture, opportunities for professional development, and any other aspects of the job that you are curious about.