Top 10 Questions for Prosthetic Dentist Interview

1. How would you evaluate the occlusion of a patient?

1) Patient interview – Review dental history, current concerns, chief complaint, and any previous dental work.

2) Clinical examination – Palpate and inspect the muscles of mastication, temporomandibular joints, teeth, and oral tissues. Assess range of motion, tenderness, and any signs of trauma.

3) Diagnostic tests – Study mounted diagnostic casts on an articulator. Use articulating paper, shim stock, or other methods to analyze static and dynamic occlusion.

2. What are the common challenges associated with fabricating a complete denture?

Oral health

• Xerostomia
• Soft tissue inflammation
• Gingival hyperplasia

Prosthetic-related challenges

• Establishing jaw separation
• Achieving esthetics
• Maintaining function

3. How do you determine the correct vertical dimension of occlusion for a patient?

1) Clinical examination – Measure the patient’s rest vertical dimension, free way space, and freeway space. Assess the patient’s facial appearance and phonetics at different vertical dimension measurements.

2) Diagnostic casts – Mount diagnostic casts on an articulator. Use various methods to determine the optimal vertical dimension of occlusion, such as the Lucia jig or facebow transfer.

4. What are the different types of impression techniques used in prosthodontics?

• Maxillary impressions – Stock trays, custom trays, putty and wash, double mix.
• Mandibular impressions – Stock trays, custom trays, single-step, double mix.
• Special impression techniques – Edentulous Impressions, Impressions for overdentures, Implant impressions.

5. How would you manage a patient with a severely resorbed edentulous ridge?

1) Evaluate the patient’s systemic health and oral condition.

2) Assess the remaining bone and soft tissue support.

3) Consider various treatment options, including implants, overdentures, or conventional dentures.

4) Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each option with the patient.

5) Develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

6. What are the different materials used for the fabrication of crowns and bridges?

Metal

• Stainless steel
• Gold
• Titanium
• Cobalt-chromium alloys

Ceramic

• Zirconia
• Lithium disilicate
• Glass ceramics

Composite resin

• Direct composite
• Indirect composite

7. How do you plan and design an implant-supported prosthesis?

1) Preoperative planning

• Assess patient’s medical history
• Evaluate the implant site
• Determine the number and location of implants

2) Surgical phase

• Prepare the implant site
• Place the implants
• Allow for osseointegration

3) Prosthetic phase

• Design the prosthesis
• Fabricate the prosthesis
• Place the prosthesis

8. What are the different types of dental veneers?

• Porcelain veneers
• Composite veneers
• Lumineers
• Palatal veneers

9. How do you maintain and troubleshoot dental implants?

Maintenance

• Regular professional cleanings
• Home care (brushing and flossing)
• Regular check-ups

Troubleshooting

• Peri-implantitis
• Implant fracture
• Loose abutment screw
• Chipped porcelain

10. What are the ethical considerations in prosthodontics?

• Patient autonomy
• Informed consent
• Conflict of interest
• Confidentiality
• Honesty and integrity

Prosthetic dentists play a crucial role in healthcare by fabricating, repairing, and fitting dental prosthetics such as implants, dentures, and crowns. Their responsibilities demand expertise in dental materials and techniques to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

1. Prosthetic Design and Fabrication

Prosthetic dentists collaborate with dentists and other healthcare professionals to plan and design customized dental prosthetics. They utilize their knowledge of anatomy, biomaterials, and restorative techniques to create prosthetics that meet the specific needs of each patient and restore oral function and aesthetics.

2. Prosthetic Placement and Adjustment

After fabrication, prosthetic dentists are responsible for placing and adjusting the prosthetics in patients’ mouths. They ensure proper fit, retention, and function. They also provide education and guidance to patients on how to care for and maintain their dental prosthetics.

3. Patient Consultation and Examination

Prosthetic dentists conduct comprehensive consultations with patients to assess their oral health needs and discuss treatment options. They perform thorough examinations of the patient’s teeth, gums, and oral tissues to determine the appropriate type of prosthetic restoration.

4. Material Selection and Laboratory Coordination

Prosthetic dentists select the most suitable materials for each prosthetic based on factors such as the patient’s individual requirements, durability, and aesthetics. They communicate with dental laboratories to provide precise instructions for the fabrication of prosthetics and supervise the quality of the finished products.

5. Treatment Planning and Collaboration

Prosthetic dentists work closely with other dental professionals, such as dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons, to develop comprehensive treatment plans for patients. They provide their expertise in prosthetic restorations to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.

Preparing for a prosthetic dentist interview requires thorough research, practice, and a professional demeanor. Here are some key tips to help candidates ace their interview:

1. Research the Clinic and the Role

Familiarize yourself with the clinic’s website, social media pages, and any relevant publications. Understand the clinic’s mission, values, and the specific responsibilities of the prosthetic dentist role. This will demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and the clinic.

2. Practice Your Answers

Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses. Consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to effectively convey your experiences and skills in prosthetic dentistry. Practice speaking clearly and confidently, highlighting your strengths and how they align with the role.

3. Showcase Your Expertise

Be prepared to discuss your technical skills, knowledge of dental materials, and experience in fabricating and fitting dental prosthetics. Bring examples of your successful cases or projects to illustrate your expertise and ability to handle complex cases.

4. Highlight Your Collaboration Skills

Emphasize your ability to work effectively as part of a team. Prosthetic dentists often collaborate with other dental professionals. Highlight your communication and interpersonal skills, providing specific examples of how you have successfully collaborated on patient cases.

5. Ask Insightful Questions

Asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview demonstrates your engagement and interest in the role and the clinic. Prepare questions related to the clinic’s approach to patient care, ongoing professional development opportunities, and the clinic’s future plans.