Dental Hygienist Interview Questions

Interviewer: Hi, thank you for coming in today. Can you tell me a little bit about your previous experience as a dental hygienist?

Candidate: Yes, I have been working as a dental hygienist for the past five years. I have worked in private practices and community clinics, providing preventative care, patient education, and hygiene treatment plans.

Interviewer: How do you stay up to date on the latest research and techniques in dental hygiene?

Candidate: I attend continuing education courses and read industry publications to stay current on new research and techniques in dental hygiene.

Interviewer: Can you walk me through your process for conducting dental cleanings?

Candidate: Sure. I start by performing a full mouth assessment and recording the patient's medical history. Then, I use hand and rotary instruments to remove tartar and plaque buildup. I also polish the teeth and provide fluoride treatments.

Interviewer: How do you handle patients who are anxious or nervous during their appointments?

Candidate: I take the time to listen to their concerns and provide reassurance. I also explain each step of the process to alleviate any fears and adjust my approach as needed to accommodate their needs.

Interviewer: Can you describe your experience with patient education and instruction on proper oral hygiene techniques?

Candidate: Yes, I believe that patient education is an essential part of my role. I provide detailed explanations of proper brushing, flossing, and oral care habits that the patient can continue to use at home.

Interviewer: Can you tell me how you would handle a situation where a patient presents with periodontal disease?

Candidate: I would evaluate the severity of the disease and develop a treatment plan that includes frequent cleanings, scaling and root planing, and close monitoring of the patient's progress.

Interviewer: How do you handle situations where a patient is non-compliant with their oral health regimen or appointments?

Candidate: I would work to understand their reasons for non-compliance and address any concerns or barriers they may have. I would also emphasize the importance of maintaining good oral health and the potential consequences of not doing so.

Interviewer: Have you ever had to refer a patient to a specialist? If so, can you walk me through that process?

Candidate: Yes, I have referred patients to periodontists or oral surgeons when necessary. I would explain the reason for the referral and provide any necessary records or documentation to the specialist.

Interviewer: How do you prioritize and manage your workload as a dental hygienist?

Candidate: I prioritize my appointments based on patient need and schedule accordingly. I also make sure to allow enough time for each patient so that I can provide thorough care without rushing.

Interviewer: Can you describe your experience with charting and recordkeeping?

Candidate: Yes, I have extensive experience in charting and recordkeeping. I make sure to document all treatment and findings accurately and completely.

Interviewer: How do you ensure patient confidentiality in your role as a dental hygienist?

Candidate: I strictly adhere to HIPAA guidelines and make sure to keep all patient information confidential.

Interviewer: How do you handle situations where a patient is unhappy with their treatment or experience?

Candidate: I would take the time to listen to their concerns and identify the reason for their dissatisfaction. I would then work to address the issue and provide a solution.

Interviewer: Can you tell me about a difficult patient you have had in the past and how you handled the situation?

Candidate: I had a patient who was very anxious and difficult to work with. I made sure to listen to their concerns, adjust my approach to accommodate their needs, and provide reassurance throughout the appointment.

Interviewer: Can you describe your experience with dental software and technology?

Candidate: I am proficient in dental software and understand how to use it to manage patient information, schedule appointments, and communicate with colleagues.

Interviewer: Finally, why do you think you would be a good fit for our practice?

Candidate: I believe my experience, patient-centered approach, and commitment to continuous learning make me a valuable addition to any dental practice. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and help provide excellent care to your patients.

Scenario Questions

1. Scenario: A patient comes in for a routine cleaning and informs you that they have been experiencing sensitivity in one particular tooth. How would you address this concern and what steps would you take during the cleaning process to minimize discomfort?

Candidate Answer: I would start by asking the patient more about their sensitivity and if it has been ongoing or recent. I would then perform a thorough examination of the tooth to determine if there are any visible signs of decay or damage. During the cleaning process, I would use gentle techniques and consider using desensitizing agents or fluoride treatments to help alleviate sensitivity. I would also provide the patient with recommendations for at-home care to decrease the likelihood of future sensitivity.

2. Scenario: A patient with a history of periodontal disease comes in for a deep cleaning. How would you approach this patient's treatment plan and what advice would you give them for maintaining their oral health?

Candidate Answer: With a patient who has a history of periodontal disease, it is important to begin with a thorough evaluation of their current condition and any previous treatment they have undergone. From there, I would develop a customized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and uses evidence-based approaches. During the deep cleaning, I would utilize scaling and root planing techniques to remove built-up plaque and tartar. Additionally, I would provide the patient with in-depth education on proper oral hygiene, such as how to properly brush and floss, and offer advice on lifestyle changes that may improve their gum health.

3. Scenario: You notice during a patient's exam that they have a suspicious lesion on their tongue. How would you approach this situation and what actions would you take?

Candidate Answer: If I notice a suspicious lesion during a patient's exam, my first priority would be to take a thorough medical history and ask the patient about any current symptoms or pain. I would then recommend that they see a dentist as soon as possible to receive further examination and a potential biopsy. While waiting for additional care, I would provide the patient with education on oral cancer, including risk factors and prevention strategies, and encourage them to seek prompt attention should their symptoms worsen.

4. Scenario: A young child comes in for their first dental visit and is quite nervous. How would you approach this situation and what tactics would you use to help them feel more comfortable?

Candidate Answer: With a nervous child, it is important to establish trust and create a welcoming environment. I would start by explaining the various tools in a kid-friendly way and showing them how each works. I would also use a gentle approach and communicate with them throughout the exam to ensure they feel comfortable and know what to expect. To help ease any anxiety, I might offer a comfort item such as a stuffed animal or allow the child to select a favorite video during the exam. Overall, my goal would be to help the child feel empowered and confident in their oral health.

5. Scenario: A patient comes in complaining of chronic bad breath. What steps would you take to help identify the cause of the odor and what recommendations would you make for treatment?

Candidate Answer: With a patient complaining of bad breath, it is important to first assess their oral hygiene practices and any potential underlying health conditions. I would start by performing a thorough examination of their teeth and gums to look for signs of decay, gingivitis or periodontitis. I would also ask the patient if they have any dietary habits that could be contributing to the issue, such as smoking or consuming large amounts of sugary foods. From there, I would recommend a combination of in-office treatments, such as a deep cleaning or periodontal therapy, as well as at-home practices to help eliminate the underlying cause. This could include changes to their diet or giving them specific instructions on how to clean their teeth and tongue effectively.