Dentistry Interview Guide: Complete Guide for 2027 Entry
- Revision Notes
- Jul 31
- 31 min read
Updated: Aug 22
Receiving an invitation to a dental school interview is a major achievement.
Dentistry is highly competitive, and the interview is often the stage at which dental schools begin to distinguish between applicants who have already met demanding academic and admissions-test requirements. The Dental Schools Council’s official 2027 entry guide explains that minimum qualifications allow an application to progress, while later stages such as the interview help dental schools differentiate between candidates.
Depending on the dental school, your interview could include:
Multiple Mini Interviews
A structured panel interview
Role-play
Ethical scenarios
Questions about your motivation
Discussion of your career exploration
Manual-dexterity questions or tasks
Communication activities
Problem-solving
Article or data interpretation
Questions about professionalism
Discussion of your UCAS application
There is no single interview format used by every UK dental school.
For example:
Manchester currently uses five separate MMI stations.
Cardiff uses a series of timed MMI stations.
Bristol’s 2027 entry information describes an online structured interview.
Aberdeen’s published interview domains include professionalism, ethics, manual dexterity, communication, article comprehension and problem-solving.
The interview is not normally designed to test whether you already know how to diagnose dental disease or perform treatment.
Instead, interviewers may assess whether you show the potential to become a safe, thoughtful and trustworthy dental student.
This may include:
Motivation to study Dentistry
Communication
Respect and empathy
Honesty and integrity
Teamwork
Reflection
Responsibility
Resilience
Ethical judgement
Awareness of patient safety
Understanding of the dental profession
The Dental Schools Council identifies these qualities, alongside conscientiousness, effective communication, willingness to advocate for patients and commitment to personal development, as important attributes for future dental students.
This guide explains:
How Dentistry interviews work
The difference between MMIs and panel interviews
What dental schools are looking for
How to answer “Why Dentistry?”
How Dentistry differs from Medicine and other healthcare professions
How to discuss work experience
How to demonstrate manual dexterity
How to answer ethical questions
Consent and confidentiality
Communication and role-play
Complaints and professionalism
Current issues in Dentistry
How to prepare effectively
Common mistakes to avoid
For a wider overview of interview formats, read University Interviews Explained.
Dentistry Interview Quick Facts
Question | Answer |
UCAS deadline for most 2027 Dentistry courses | 15 October 2026 at 18:00 UK time |
Common interview formats | MMI and structured interview |
Are all interviews in person? | No, formats may be online or in person |
Is manual dexterity always tested? | No, but some schools assess or discuss it |
Is clinical knowledge required? | Usually not in detail |
Is work experience compulsory everywhere? | No, requirements differ |
Are ethical questions common? | Yes |
Do all interviewed applicants receive offers? | No |
Is there one national interview pass mark? | No |
Applications for most Dentistry courses beginning in 2027 must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time on 15 October 2026 to receive equal consideration.
What Is a Dental School Interview?
A dental school interview is a structured assessment used to explore your suitability for dental education and the responsibilities of becoming a dental professional.
Dental schools may use the interview to assess:
Whether you understand Dentistry
Why you want to enter the profession
Whether your expectations are realistic
How you communicate
How you respond to pressure
Whether you can reflect on experience
How you approach ethical situations
Whether you recognise patient-safety concerns
How you work with other people
Whether you can behave professionally
The interview may be considered alongside:
GCSE or equivalent results
Predicted or achieved Level 3 qualifications
UCAT score
UCAS application
Academic reference
Contextual information
Widening-participation eligibility
Other course-specific assessments
The official Dental Schools Council guide for 2027 entry brings together information supplied directly by UK dental schools, but it also advises applicants to confirm details through individual university course pages.
Does an Interview Invitation Mean You Will Get an Offer?
No.
An invitation means that your application has progressed to an important selection stage.
You may already have demonstrated:
Suitable academic attainment
A competitive admissions-test result
Appropriate subject choices
Evidence of motivation
Potential suitability for Dentistry
However, the university may interview considerably more applicants than it has places.
The final decision may depend heavily on:
Interview performance
Overall ranking
Minimum station scores
UCAT performance
Academic profile
Contextual consideration
The number of available places
Do not treat the invitation as a formality.
Equally, do not assume you need to perform perfectly.
The interview normally contains several questions or stations because one response cannot show everything about your potential.
When Do Dentistry Interviews Take Place?
There is no single national interview period.
Dental school interviews commonly take place between:
Late autumn
Winter
Early spring
The timetable depends on the university.
Manchester, for example, states that its Dentistry interviews normally run from January to March.
Your invitation may arrive:
By email
Through UCAS
Through a university applicant portal
Through an interview-booking system
Check:
Your inbox
Junk or spam
UCAS
University portals
The email address used in your application
Does an Early Invitation Mean You Are More Likely to Get an Offer?
Not necessarily.
Interview invitations may be sent in batches because of:
Administrative scheduling
Interviewer availability
Applicant categories
UCAT processing
Interview capacity
Home or overseas arrangements
Do not compare your invitation date with another applicant’s and try to predict the outcome.
Types of Dentistry Interview
Multiple Mini Interviews
Multiple Mini Interviews, usually called MMIs, involve a series of short stations.
Each station may assess a different quality.
Possible stations include:
Why Dentistry?
Work-experience reflection
Ethics
Consent
Confidentiality
Communication
Role-play
Teamwork
Manual dexterity
Problem-solving
Article comprehension
Data interpretation
Professionalism
At Manchester, candidates currently complete five stations. Each station lasts seven minutes, with a break of at least two minutes before moving on. A separate interviewer marks each station independently.
Cardiff describes its MMI as a series of short, carefully timed stations designed to assess whether applicants can think on their feet, critically appraise information, communicate effectively and engage with professional issues.
Read MMI Interviews Explained for a detailed guide to station technique.
Advantages of the MMI Format
An MMI gives you several opportunities to demonstrate different strengths.
A difficult station is followed by:
A new topic
A different task
Often a different interviewer
A fresh chance to perform well
Do not carry one disappointing answer into the rest of the circuit.
Between stations:
Stop replaying the previous answer.
Take one slow breath.
Read or listen to the new instructions.
Begin again.
Panel Interviews
A panel interview involves a longer discussion with two or more interviewers.
The panel might include:
Dental academics
Dentists
Admissions staff
Other dental professionals
Current students
Patient or public representatives
Questions may cover several areas within one conversation:
Motivation
Career understanding
Work experience
Manual dexterity
Ethics
Communication
Current dental issues
Personal qualities
Your UCAS application
Unlike an MMI, the same assessors may remain throughout.
Your earlier answer may lead directly into further questions.
How to Approach a Panel Interview
Listen to the person asking the question.
Answer directly.
Include the rest of the panel through natural eye contact.
Leave room for follow-up questions.
Avoid turning every answer into a rehearsed speech.
Be prepared for the conversation to change direction.
Structured Online Interviews
Some dental schools use online structured interviews.
The Dental Schools Council’s 2027 guide currently lists Bristol’s standard-entry BDS interview as an online structured format. Other schools may also use online interviews or provide separate arrangements for overseas candidates.
An online interview is still a formal admissions assessment.
You may need:
Computer or approved device
Webcam
Microphone
Reliable internet
Correct interview platform
Photographic identification
Quiet private space
The Dental Schools Council recommends testing equipment, joining around ten minutes early and preparing a backup connection where possible.
What Are Dental Schools Looking For?
The Dental Schools Council links the qualities sought in applicants to the professional standards expected of registered dental professionals.
These include:
Putting patients first
Effective communication
Understanding valid consent
Protecting patient information
Responding appropriately to complaints
Working well with colleagues
Remaining within professional competence
Raising concerns when patients are at risk
Maintaining public confidence through professional behaviour
You are not expected to behave like an experienced dentist.
Interviewers are looking for evidence that you could develop into one.
Motivation to Study Dentistry
Dental schools want applicants who are genuinely interested in the profession itself.
They may ask:
Why do you want to study Dentistry?
What attracts you to being a dentist?
How have you explored the career?
What do you understand about dental training?
What challenges do dentists face?
Why Dentistry rather than Medicine?
Which areas of dental practice interest you?
What have you learned about the dental team?
The Dental Schools Council states that applicants should demonstrate an informed choice through career exploration, knowledge of the profession and an understanding of how Dentistry compares with other healthcare careers.
Communication
Dentists communicate with:
Adult patients
Children
Parents and carers
Anxious patients
Dental nurses
Hygienists
Therapists
Technicians
Reception staff
Other healthcare professionals
Communication involves more than speaking clearly.
It also includes:
Listening
Recognising anxiety
Avoiding jargon
Checking understanding
Respecting cultural differences
Adapting to communication needs
Explaining options and costs
Supporting informed decisions
The Dental Schools Council highlights communication as particularly important because dental patients may be anxious, and dentists must communicate effectively with a wide range of people.
Empathy and Respect
A strong applicant should recognise that oral healthcare can involve:
Pain
Anxiety
Embarrassment
Financial concern
Fear of judgement
Previous difficult experiences
Communication barriers
Disability-related needs
Empathy does not mean assuming you know exactly how another person feels.
It means:
Listening
Acknowledging concern
Avoiding judgement
Asking what matters to the person
Responding sensitively
Respecting individual choices
Teamwork
Dentists work as part of a dental team.
This may include:
Dental nurses
Dental hygienists
Dental therapists
Orthodontic therapists
Dental technicians
Clinical dental technicians
Receptionists
Practice managers
Specialists
Other healthcare professionals
The GDC requires dental professionals to value each team member’s contribution, communicate effectively and work together in patients’ interests.
Avoid suggesting that:
The dentist does everything
The dentist is automatically the most important team member
Other professionals merely follow instructions
Seeking help demonstrates weakness
Honesty and Integrity
Dental professionals must be trusted by:
Patients
Colleagues
The public
Regulators
At interview, honesty includes:
Not inventing work experience
Admitting when you do not know something
Taking responsibility for mistakes
Avoiding exaggerated claims
Following interview rules
Not using outside assistance
The Dental Schools Council identifies honesty, integrity and responsibility as central qualities for applicants.
Reflection
Reflection means going beyond describing an experience.
You should be able to explain:
What happened
What you noticed
Why it mattered
What you learned
What you would do differently
How the experience changed you
Dental schools are looking for applicants who can reflect honestly on their performance and recognise areas for improvement. Dentistry also requires continuing professional learning throughout a dentist’s career.
Why Dentistry?
“Why do you want to study Dentistry?” is one of the most important questions you may be asked.
Your answer should demonstrate:
A genuine interest in Dentistry
Evidence of career exploration
Reflection on what you learned
Understanding of the dentist’s role
Awareness of challenges
Why your interests and qualities fit the profession
Weak Answer
I enjoy Science, I like working with my hands and I want to help people.
These may all be genuine reasons, but they need development.
They also apply to many other careers.
Stronger Answer
My interest began through Biology and the relationship between oral health and wider health, but it became a serious interest in Dentistry when I explored how the profession combines scientific decision-making, practical precision and long-term patient communication. During experience in a dental environment, I noticed that much of the dentist’s work involved explaining options, managing anxiety and working closely with the dental nurse, rather than simply carrying out a technical procedure. I am attracted to that combination of problem-solving, practical skill and continuity of care. I also recognise that the career involves responsibility, maintaining fine technical skills, managing patient expectations and continuing to learn throughout professional practice.
Why This Answer Works
It includes:
Academic interest
Career exploration
Reflection
Communication
Teamwork
Realistic understanding
Awareness of challenges
Avoid Saying Only
“I like teeth.”
“Dentists earn good money.”
“I want a good work-life balance.”
“I could not get into Medicine.”
“My family owns a dental practice.”
“Dentistry is prestigious.”
“I enjoy Science.”
“I want to help people.”
These points may form part of your thinking, but none is a complete answer.
Why Dentistry Rather Than Medicine?
This is not an invitation to criticise Medicine.
A strong answer should explain what specifically attracts you to Dentistry.
You might discuss:
Oral health
Preventive care
Practical procedures
Fine motor skills
Regular patient relationships
Restoring function
Managing pain
Patient education
The combination of science and craftsmanship
Working within a dental team
Example Answer
I am interested in both scientific healthcare and patient communication, but Dentistry particularly appeals to me because of the combination of prevention, diagnosis and precise practical treatment. I also value the opportunity to build ongoing relationships with patients and help them manage oral health over time. Medicine shares many important qualities, but the technical and preventive focus of Dentistry fits my interests more closely.
Avoid
“Dentistry has better hours.”
“Dentistry is easier.”
“Dentists have fewer responsibilities.”
“I do not like hospitals.”
“Doctors do not work with their hands.”
“Dentistry is basically Medicine for teeth.”
Why Dentistry Rather Than Dental Hygiene or Therapy?
Treat Dental Care Professional roles with respect.
Dental hygienists and therapists provide important preventive and clinical care and may work independently within their professional scope.
Your answer could focus on the particular breadth of the dentist’s role, which may include:
Diagnosis
Treatment planning
Managing complex oral disease
Restorative procedures
Coordinating care
Referring patients
Working across several clinical disciplines
Do not suggest that Dentistry is simply a “more senior” or “better” version of another profession.
What Does a Dentist Do?
A dentist’s work may include:
Examining patients
Identifying oral disease
Assessing risk
Discussing prevention
Explaining treatment choices
Obtaining consent
Restorative treatment
Managing dental pain
Referring patients
Keeping accurate records
Working with the dental team
Responding to complaints
Maintaining professional skills
Recognising safeguarding concerns
Promoting public health
Avoid describing Dentistry as a career consisting only of:
Drilling teeth
Filling cavities
Cosmetic procedures
Working alone
Running a business
What Makes a Good Dentist?
A good answer might discuss:
Clinical competence
Communication
Manual precision
Empathy
Integrity
Teamwork
Patience
Attention to detail
Reflection
Reliability
Awareness of limitations
Commitment to learning
Do not list ten qualities without explanation.
Choose several and explain what they look like in practice.
Example Answer
A good dentist needs strong scientific and practical skills, but they must also communicate clearly enough for patients to make informed decisions. They should recognise that some patients are anxious or embarrassed and respond without judgement. Integrity is essential because patients must trust the advice, treatment options and costs being explained. A good dentist must also work within their competence, seek help where necessary and reflect honestly when something goes wrong.
What Are the Challenges of Dentistry?
Possible challenges include:
Treating anxious patients
Maintaining manual precision
Working in confined clinical spaces
Managing expectations
Communicating risk and cost
Dealing with complaints
Keeping up with evidence and technology
Maintaining concentration
Managing time
Balancing clinical and administrative responsibilities
Responding when treatment does not go as planned
Inequalities in access to dental care
Emotional and physical demands
A strong response should acknowledge the challenge and explain why it has not discouraged you.
Career Exploration and Work Experience
Dental schools have updated their approach to work experience.
Applicants should demonstrate that they have made an informed career choice through exploration of the profession. Many schools recommend experience in healthcare, particularly general dental practice, but specific requirements vary.
Relevant exploration could include:
Observing in general dental practice
Hospital dentistry
Orthodontic practice
Dental laboratory work
Speaking to dental professionals
University outreach activities
Virtual work experience
Healthcare volunteering
Care work
Customer-facing employment
Community service
Researching dental careers
The official 2027 guide emphasises that work experience is not a simple checklist. What matters is how you discuss and reflect on your experience. A part-time job may provide valuable evidence of teamwork and communication, even when it is not based in a dental practice.
How to Discuss Dental Work Experience
Do not simply describe:
Where you went
How long you stayed
Which procedures you saw
How impressive the practice was
Focus on what you learned.
A Reflection Framework
Experience
What did you observe or do?
Observation
What stood out?
Meaning
Why did it matter?
Learning
What did it teach you about Dentistry?
Application
How will it affect your future approach?
Example Answer
During dental-practice observation, I noticed that the dentist spent significant time explaining a relatively routine procedure to an anxious patient. The explanation changed several times in response to the patient’s questions, and the dental nurse also helped reassure them. I learned that successful treatment depends not only on technical ability but also on communication, consent and teamwork. It also showed me that the same explanation may not work for every patient.
Another Example
In a customer-service role, I dealt with someone who was frustrated by a delay. My first instinct was to explain the process immediately, but I realised that they first wanted their concern to be acknowledged. Listening before offering a solution helped de-escalate the situation. This experience developed communication skills that would be relevant when supporting anxious or dissatisfied patients.
Protect Confidentiality
Do not reveal identifiable information when discussing work experience.
Avoid sharing:
Patient names
Exact dates
Unnecessary locations
Photographs
Detailed treatment information
Unusual facts that could identify someone
The GDC states that confidentiality is central to patient trust and applies to personal details, medical history, treatment and costs. Patient information must not be discussed where unauthorised people can hear it or shared on social media.
Use general wording:
During dental-practice observation, I saw…
rather than including details that could identify the patient.
Manual Dexterity in Dentistry Interviews
Dentistry requires controlled and coordinated practical skills.
Some dental schools may assess manual dexterity through:
A practical task
A question about relevant experience
Discussion of a hobby
An object or example of your work
A dedicated MMI station
Aberdeen currently lists manual dexterity as one of its BDS interview domains.
Manual dexterity is not tested by every dental school.
Check your invitation before assuming that you need to bring or complete anything.
What Counts as Evidence of Manual Dexterity?
Examples might include:
Drawing
Painting
Model making
Sculpture
Sewing
The activity itself matters less than what you developed through it.
A Strong Manual-Dexterity Answer
Explain:
What the activity involves
Which fine-motor skills it requires
How you improved
How you respond to errors
Why the learning is relevant
Example Answer
I play the violin, which requires precise finger placement and coordination between both hands. Improvement has depended on slow repetition and noticing small errors rather than simply playing the whole piece repeatedly. It has taught me patience, controlled movement and the importance of regular practice when developing a technical skill.
Avoid
Listing several hobbies without reflection
Claiming a hobby proves that you will automatically be clinically skilled
Inventing a manual hobby shortly before the interview
Saying you have “perfect hand skills”
Treating manual dexterity as more important than patient care
Dental school will teach clinical techniques.
The interview is looking for potential and insight, not proof that you can already perform Dentistry.
Dentistry Ethics Questions
Ethics questions may involve:
Consent
Confidentiality
Patient choice
Costs
Treatment refusal
Manchester explains that ethical discussions often have no single correct answer. Interviewers may be interested in whether you can identify and summarise the issues coherently rather than whether you hold one approved viewpoint.
A Dentistry Ethics Framework
Step 1: Identify the Issue
What is the decision or conflict?
Step 2: Identify Who Is Affected
Consider:
Patient
Parent or carer
Dental professional
Dental team
Other patients
Wider public
Step 3: Identify Missing Information
Ask:
Is anyone at immediate risk?
Has valid consent been obtained?
Does the patient understand?
What treatment options exist?
What are the costs?
What is your role?
Is senior advice needed?
Step 4: Prioritise Patient Welfare
Patient safety and interests should be central.
Step 5: Consider Professional Standards
Think about:
Communication
Consent
Confidentiality
Teamwork
Honesty
Competence
Raising concerns
Step 6: Explore the Options
Explain benefits, risks and limitations.
Step 7: Reach a Proportionate Conclusion
Complex situations may need a conditional answer.
You do not need to pretend that every ethical problem has one perfect solution.
Consent in Dentistry
Valid consent is an ongoing communication process.
It involves more than asking a patient to sign a form.
The patient should understand matters such as:
Treatment options
Risks
Potential benefits
Likely outcomes
Costs
What could happen without treatment
Changes to the original plan
The GDC states that consent must be obtained before treatment, that discussions should be documented and that patients may withdraw consent or ask for treatment to stop.
Example Consent Scenario
A patient agrees to a treatment plan, but during the procedure the dentist realises that additional treatment may be needed. What should happen?
A thoughtful answer might include:
Pause where clinically safe.
Explain the new finding.
Describe the available options.
Explain risks, benefits and additional cost.
Check the patient’s understanding.
Obtain consent before changing the agreed treatment.
Document the discussion.
Arrange another appointment if the patient needs time to decide.
Do not assume that initial consent covers every later change.
Treating Children and Young People
Questions involving children may require you to consider:
The child’s understanding
The role of parents or carers
Communication appropriate to the child
Anxiety
Best interests
Consent
Safeguarding
Professional advice
As an applicant, you are not expected to provide a complete legal explanation.
You should recognise that the situation requires careful assessment, suitable communication and appropriate supervision.
Treatment Refusal
A patient may refuse treatment because of:
Fear
Cost
Personal preferences
Previous experience
Cultural or religious beliefs
Concern about side effects
Lack of understanding
A strong response should include:
Exploring the reason
Providing clear information
Checking understanding
Avoiding pressure
Explaining likely consequences
Respecting an informed decision
Documenting the discussion
Offering appropriate alternatives
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is central to patient trust.
A strong answer should recognise that patient information should not normally be disclosed without permission.
However, exceptional situations may require disclosure, particularly where:
There is a serious risk of harm
Safeguarding is involved
Disclosure is required by law
Senior or professional advice supports it
The GDC states that confidential information may be released without consent only in exceptional circumstances, with the minimum necessary information shared and the reasoning documented.
Example Confidentiality Scenario
A friend asks whether a person they know is being treated at the dental practice where you completed work experience.
A suitable response is:
Do not confirm or deny that the person is a patient.
Do not share treatment details.
Explain that patient information is confidential.
Reflect on whether you previously revealed too much.
Seek guidance if you believe a breach has occurred.
Avoid discussing patient cases outside the appropriate setting.
Complaints
Dentists may need to respond when patients are:
Dissatisfied
Confused
In pain
Concerned about cost
Unhappy with an outcome
Frustrated by communication
Worried that something went wrong
The GDC requires dental services to have an effective complaints process, and patients’ concerns should be acknowledged, listened to and dealt with promptly.
How to Approach a Complaint Scenario
Listen without interrupting.
Acknowledge the concern.
Avoid becoming defensive.
Clarify what happened.
Explain the complaints process.
Seek appropriate senior support.
Keep accurate records.
Be open when something went wrong.
Consider how recurrence can be prevented.
Example Response
I would first make sure the patient had an opportunity to explain the concern fully. I would acknowledge their experience without becoming defensive or making promises before the facts were clear. I would then follow the practice’s complaints procedure, involve the appropriate senior colleague and ensure the concern and response were recorded accurately. If an error had occurred, honesty, an appropriate apology and action to protect the patient would be important.
Duty of Candour
Duty of candour means being open and honest when something has gone wrong.
A strong answer may include:
Protecting the patient
Acknowledging the problem
Informing an appropriate supervisor
Explaining what happened
Apologising appropriately
Recording the incident
Learning from it
Preventing recurrence
The Dental Schools Council specifically identifies the ability to apologise and recognise duty of candour as an attribute relevant to future dental students.
Raising Concerns
You may be given a scenario involving:
Unsafe practice
A colleague working beyond their competence
Altered records
Poor infection control
Discriminatory behaviour
A patient at risk
Dishonesty
A safeguarding concern
A strong response should consider:
Immediate patient safety
What you actually observed
Your own role
Whether direct communication is suitable
Appropriate escalation
Accurate reporting
Avoiding gossip
Follow-up action
The GDC requires dental professionals to raise concerns where patients may be at risk.
Example Scenario
You notice another student recording a clinical task that they did not complete.
A strong answer could include:
Clarify the situation before making assumptions.
Do not ignore or assist with dishonesty.
Encourage the student to correct the record.
Explain why accurate records and honesty matter.
Inform an appropriate tutor or supervisor if necessary.
Consider whether patient safety has been affected.
Avoid discussing the incident with unrelated people.
Professional Boundaries
Interview scenarios may involve:
Accepting gifts
Contact with patients on social media
Personal relationships
Sharing personal information
Favouritism
Financial conflicts
Inappropriate humour
A strong answer should protect:
Patient welfare
Professional trust
Fairness
Confidentiality
Appropriate distance
The GDC expects personal behaviour to maintain public confidence in the dental profession.
Communication and Role-Play Stations
A role-play station may ask you to:
Speak with an anxious patient
Respond to a complaint
Explain a delay
Address inappropriate behaviour
Support someone who is upset
Explain a simple process
Resolve a misunderstanding
You are not expected to diagnose or provide treatment.
The station is more likely to assess:
Listening
Empathy
Clarity
Respect
Adaptability
Professional judgement
Appropriate next steps
A Role-Play Framework
Introduce
Clarify who you are.
Invite
Use an open question.
Could you tell me what has happened?
Listen
Do not rush to interrupt or fix the situation.
Acknowledge
Recognise the person’s concern.
I can understand why that has been frustrating.
Clarify
Check what matters most.
Is your main concern that the cost was not explained beforehand?
Respond
Address what is within your role.
Do not promise an outcome you cannot guarantee.
Check
Ask whether there is another concern.
Close
Summarise the next step.
Managing Dental Anxiety
A patient may be anxious because of:
Fear of pain
Previous difficult treatment
Loss of control
Embarrassment
Needles
Sounds or smells
Cost
Uncertainty
A strong response might involve:
Listening
Asking what specifically worries them
Explaining the process in clear stages
Agreeing a signal to pause
Avoiding judgement
Checking consent throughout
Allowing suitable time
Involving the appropriate dental professional
Do not say:
There is nothing to worry about.
You cannot know that this will reassure the patient
Explaining a Procedure
You may be asked to explain a simple activity or process.
Use:
A short overview
Clear stages
Plain language
A sensible pace
A check for understanding
Avoid unexplained technical terms.
Instead of asking only:
Do you understand?
try:
Could you explain the next step back to me so I know I described it clearly?
Teamwork Questions
Possible questions include:
Tell us about working in a team.
What makes a dental team effective?
How would you manage disagreement?
What would you do if someone did not complete their task?
Tell us about leading a group.
Tell us about supporting another person.
Use the STARR Structure
Situation
Task
Action
Result
Reflection
Example Teamwork Answer
During a group project, two members had interpreted the task differently. I suggested that we return to the assessment criteria and agree what the final presentation needed to achieve. We then reorganised the work around those priorities. The project was completed successfully, but the most important lesson was that teamwork depends on a shared understanding of the goal rather than simply dividing the tasks at the beginning.
Avoid
Claiming you did all the work
Blaming other people
Describing leadership as giving orders
Ignoring what you learned
Suggesting the dentist should control every member of the team
Personal Qualities Questions
You may be asked:
What is your greatest strength?
What are you working to improve?
Tell us about a failure.
How do you manage pressure?
Tell us about receiving feedback.
How do you organise your time?
Tell us about a challenge.
How do you maintain concentration?
Strengths
Select a strength relevant to dental study.
Possible examples include:
Attention to detail
Communication
Patience
Reflection
Organisation
Fine-motor persistence
Teamwork
Response to feedback
Give evidence rather than a list.
Example
One of my strengths is responding constructively to feedback. When learning a piece on the piano, I had a tendency to repeat the whole performance rather than isolating the weak sections. My teacher encouraged me to practise slowly and focus on small technical errors. That approach improved the piece and also taught me that developing a practical skill requires deliberate reflection rather than repetition alone.
Weaknesses
Choose a genuine but manageable area for development.
Explain:
The difficulty
Its effect
What action you took
Evidence of progress
What remains to improve
Example
I used to hesitate before contributing to group discussions because I wanted my idea to be completely formed. This sometimes meant the conversation moved on before I contributed. I have been practising offering an initial point and then developing it through discussion. I have become more confident, although I still need to make sure careful thinking does not become unnecessary hesitation.
Avoid fake weaknesses such as:
Caring too much
Being too hardworking
Having standards that are too high
Failure and Mistakes
A strong answer shows:
Ownership
Reflection
Corrective action
Change
Example
I underestimated how much time a practical project would require and rushed the final stage. The result was less precise than I wanted. I reviewed where the time had been lost and realised I had not allowed for testing and correcting mistakes. In later projects, I set an earlier deadline for the first complete version so that refinement was built into the plan.
Current Issues in Dentistry
You may be asked to discuss a current issue affecting:
Patients
Dental professionals
Oral health
Public services
Dental education
Preventive care
Possible topics include:
Access to NHS dental care
Oral-health inequalities
Preventive Dentistry
Children’s oral health
Workforce pressure
Fluoridation
Antimicrobial resistance
Cosmetic Dentistry
Artificial intelligence
New dental technologies
Public understanding of oral health
The relationship between oral and general health
You do not need to memorise large numbers of statistics.
Prepare to explain:
What the issue is
Why it matters
Who is affected
Causes or contributing factors
Possible responses
Limitations and trade-offs
NHS Dentistry
For 2027 entry, the Dental Schools Council’s official guide notes that the Department of Health and Social Care plans to introduce a minimum period of NHS practice for newly qualified dentists beginning courses in the 2027/28 academic year. It also states that further information is still expected.
This is a developing policy.
A strong interview response should distinguish clearly between:
Confirmed current arrangements
Government plans
Details that remain unresolved
Do not present an unsettled proposal as a fully implemented rule.
Dentistry Interview Questions
Common questions may include:
Why Dentistry?
Why not Medicine?
What does a dentist do?
What makes a good dentist?
What did you learn from work experience?
How have you explored the profession?
What are the challenges of Dentistry?
What interests you about oral health?
How have you developed manual dexterity?
Tell us about working in a team.
Tell us about a failure.
How do you respond to feedback?
What would you do if a patient refused treatment?
How would you respond to a complaint?
What would you do if you observed unsafe practice?
What current issue in Dentistry interests you?
Why this dental school?
How will you cope with a demanding course?
Read Common University Interview Questions for broader answer frameworks.
Why This Dental School?
Research the exact course.
You might discuss:
Course structure
Early patient contact
Simulation facilities
Clinical placements
Teaching style
Interprofessional learning
Research opportunities
Community Dentistry
Student support
Particular clinical experiences
Do not simply list facilities.
Explain why a feature matters.
Example
I was particularly interested in the emphasis on early development of clinical and communication skills. I understand that practical ability has to develop alongside professionalism and patient interaction, so I would value a course where these areas are introduced together rather than treated as separate parts of training.
Dentistry Interview Formats at Different Universities
Interview arrangements change, so always verify the current university page and invitation.
Manchester
Manchester currently uses:
Five MMI stations
Separate interviewers
Seven minutes per station
Breaks of at least two minutes
In-person interviews for most applicants
January-to-March interviewing
The university advises applicants to speak naturally, avoid over-rehearsing and not force memorised ethical principles into every answer.
Cardiff
Cardiff currently uses timed MMIs to assess:
Thinking under pressure
Awareness of professional issues
Critical appraisal
Communication
Relevant personal attributes
Bristol
The Dental Schools Council’s 2027 entry guide currently lists Bristol’s interview as an:
Online, structured interview format.
Follow Bristol’s invitation for the precise platform and assessment structure.
Aberdeen Graduate Entry
Aberdeen’s published BDS interview domains include:
Course knowledge
Professionalism and ethics
Manual dexterity
Personal statement
Communication
Article comprehension
Problem-solving
The precise content of live stations remains confidential.
These domains show the range of skills that a Dentistry interview may assess.
How Are Dentistry Interviews Scored?
Scoring systems vary.
A dental school might use:
Separate MMI station scores
Competency ratings
Interviewer checklists
Overall judgement
Minimum thresholds
Total interview ranking
Interview combined with other selection information
There is no universal Dentistry interview pass mark.
A university may assess qualities such as:
Motivation
Communication
Reflection
Ethics
Teamwork
Professionalism
Problem-solving
Manual dexterity
Do not rely on an unofficial score calculator.
Can One Bad Station Ruin the Interview?
Usually, one weak answer does not automatically determine the result.
The university is likely to assess your performance across:
Several questions
Several competencies
Several stations or assessors
However, serious concerns may have a greater effect.
Examples include:
Dishonesty
Discrimination
Breaching confidentiality
Unsafe judgement
Aggressive behaviour
Using external assistance
Sharing interview content
After a difficult station:
Breathe
Reset
Read the next task carefully
Begin again
How to Prepare for a Dentistry Interview
Step 1: Research the Exact Interview
Find the current official information on:
Format
Online or in person
Number of stations
Timing
Manual-dexterity element
Article or data task
Identification
Reasonable adjustments
Do this separately for every university.
Step 2: Review Your UCAS Application
Read all three personal-statement responses.
Prepare to discuss:
Why Dentistry
Educational preparation
Career exploration
Work experience
Volunteering
Employment
Manual activities
Teamwork
Communication
Reflection
Do not assume that the interviewers have scored or even read every section.
The 2027 Dental Schools Council guide shows that universities use the personal statement differently. Some score it, some refer to it for background, and others do not use it when shortlisting.
Step 3: Prepare Your Why Dentistry Answer
Write brief notes covering:
Initial interest
Career exploration
What you learned
Why the role suits you
Challenges you recognise
Why you are still motivated
Do not memorise the full answer.
Step 4: Reflect on Experience
Create a table:
Experience | What happened? | What did I notice? | What did I learn? | Why is it relevant? |
Dental observation | ||||
Volunteering | ||||
Employment | ||||
Team activity | ||||
Manual activity | ||||
Challenge |
Step 5: Learn the GDC Principles
Understand the broad professional expectations around:
Patient interests
Communication
Consent
Confidentiality
Complaints
Teamwork
Competence
Raising concerns
Professional conduct
Do not memorise paragraph numbers.
Apply the ideas to scenarios.
Step 6: Prepare Examples
Prepare evidence of:
Communication
Teamwork
Responsibility
Reflection
Manual dexterity
Resilience
Honesty
Receiving feedback
Problem-solving
One experience may demonstrate several qualities.
Step 7: Practise Ethics
Use scenarios involving:
Consent
Confidentiality
Complaints
Treatment refusal
Unsafe practice
Social media
Financial pressure
Professional boundaries
Safeguarding
Focus on reasoning rather than memorising one approved answer.
Step 8: Practise Communication
Try:
Explaining a simple process
Supporting an anxious person
Responding to frustration
Checking understanding
Avoiding jargon
Asking open questions
Step 9: Practise to Time
For MMI preparation:
Read the prompt quickly.
Identify your role.
Identify the main issue.
Organise your answer.
Leave room for follow-up questions.
Stop naturally when finished.
Step 10: Complete a Mock Interview
Ask a:
Teacher
Careers adviser
Tutor
Trusted adult
Subject specialist
to include:
Motivation
Work experience
Ethics
Communication
Teamwork
Manual dexterity
Current issues
Follow-up questions
Step 11: Review Feedback
Ask:
Did I answer the question?
Was I specific?
Did I reflect?
Did I listen?
Did I make assumptions?
Did I protect patient safety?
Was my answer too long?
Did I sound scripted?
Did I explain why?
Choose two or three priorities.
A Four-Week Dentistry Interview Preparation Plan
Week 1: Understand Dentistry
Research each dental school.
Review your UCAS application.
Prepare Why Dentistry.
Review the dentist’s role.
Reflect on career exploration.
Read the main GDC principles.
Week 2: Build Your Evidence
Prepare examples covering:
Teamwork
Communication
Manual dexterity
Feedback
Responsibility
Failure
Resilience
Organisation
Practise discussing work experience without breaking confidentiality.
Week 3: Practise Interview Tasks
Complete:
Ethics scenarios
Role-play
Consent questions
Confidentiality questions
Complaints scenarios
Problem-solving
Article or data interpretation
Manual-dexterity discussion
Week 4: Simulate the Interview
Complete a full mock.
Practise to time.
Review feedback.
Improve weak areas.
Test technology.
Plan travel.
Complete light final review.
A Two-Week Dentistry Interview Plan
Day 14
Read the invitation and confirm the format.
Day 13
Review your UCAS application.
Day 12
Prepare Why Dentistry and why this dental school.
Day 11
Reflect on work experience and career exploration.
Day 10
Review the GDC professional principles.
Day 9
Prepare manual-dexterity examples.
Day 8
Practise consent and confidentiality scenarios.
Day 7
Complete a mock interview.
Day 6
Review feedback.
Day 5
Practise role-play and communication.
Day 4
Practise teamwork, failure and feedback questions.
Day 3
Discuss current dental issues.
Day 2
Test technology or confirm travel.
Day 1
Complete light review and prepare practical items.
Online Dentistry Interviews
The Dental Schools Council advises applicants to:
Test equipment and internet
Install the correct software
Prepare a quiet environment
Dress smart-casual
Join early
Keep identification nearby
Check emails for last-minute instructions
Speak naturally rather than reading from a script
Online Interview Checklist
Correct date and time
Correct time zone
Interview link
Platform installed
Camera tested
Microphone tested
Internet tested
Charger ready
Quiet room
Suitable lighting
Appropriate screen name
Photographic identification
Notifications disabled
University contact details
Approved materials only
Can You Use AI During a Dentistry Interview?
No.
The Dental Schools Council states that applicants must complete online interviews independently and must not use AI tools, chatbots, another person or any external help. Proven use of external assistance can result in disqualification from the admissions process.
Do not use:
Live AI-generated answers
Automatic response suggestions
Online searches
Hidden scripts
Another person in the room
Unauthorised transcription tools
AI may be used before the interview for practice, but your real answers must be your own.
Interview Confidentiality
Do not share:
Live interview questions
Station prompts
Practical tasks
Actor scenarios
Interview documents
Confidential preparation material
The Dental Schools Council explains that sharing interview tasks undermines a fair admissions process.
You can discuss your general experience with a teacher or adviser without reproducing confidential station content.
In-Person Dentistry Interviews
Check:
Campus
Dental school building
Registration location
Arrival time
Travel
Parking
Identification
Materials required
Plan to arrive early enough to manage:
Transport delays
Finding the building
Security
Registration
Walking across campus
What to Take
Follow the invitation, but you may need:
Interview confirmation
Photographic identification
Water
Travel information
Contact number
Any requested manual-dexterity item
Portfolio or documents
Suitable stationery
Do not bring practical objects unless requested.
What to Wear
Wear something:
Clean
Comfortable
Presentable
Appropriate for a professional interview
You do not normally need an expensive suit.
The Dental Schools Council’s online-interview guidance recommends smart-casual clothing rather than overly casual dress.
Choose clothing that will not distract you.
Reasonable Adjustments
Tell the dental school early if a disability, learning difference, health condition or communication need affects the interview.
Possible adjustments may include:
Additional reading time
Rest breaks
Accessible materials
Adapted technology
Captioning
Adjusted practical tasks
Accessible interview location
Follow the university’s process and provide any requested information.
Do not wait until interview day.
Aberdeen, for example, requires its adjustment form to be submitted before the interview and does not consider retrospective applications.
What If You Are Ill?
Contact the dental school as soon as possible.
Do not begin the interview without informing them if illness or an unexpected event is likely to affect your performance.
A university may:
Rearrange the interview
Provide alternative instructions
Ask for evidence
Decide that rescheduling is not possible
Aberdeen tells applicants that taking part confirms they are fit to complete the interview and asks unwell applicants to make contact so rescheduling can be considered.
What to Do on Interview Day
Before the Interview
Eat normally.
Check the time.
Review the invitation.
Prepare identification.
Test technology.
Arrive or join early.
Avoid intensive last-minute revision.
Have water where permitted.
Turn off notifications.
During the Interview
Listen to the full question.
Pause before answering.
Answer directly.
Explain your reasoning.
Use evidence.
Avoid assumptions.
Ask for clarification.
Admit uncertainty honestly.
Treat everyone respectfully.
Reset after a difficult station.
What Happens After the Interview?
Afterwards:
Record brief notes about what you learned.
Do not share confidential questions.
Check your email and applicant portal.
Respond promptly to requests.
Continue working towards your academic offer.
The university may:
Make a conditional offer
Make an unconditional offer
Reject the application
Hold the application
Rank applicants after all interviews
Request additional information
A long wait does not automatically mean rejection.
Should You Send a Thank-You Email?
Usually not.
A thank-you message is unlikely to affect the decision.
Contact the university when you need to:
Report a technical incident
Explain illness
Provide a requested document
Correct important information
Follow up on an adjustment
Can You Request Feedback?
Possibly.
Feedback policies differ.
A dental school may:
Provide general feedback
Allow a written request
Provide station scores
Provide limited comments
Decline detailed feedback
Set a deadline
Use any feedback constructively, especially when you have another interview or may reapply.
Do You Need Paid Interview Coaching?
No.
The Dental Schools Council explicitly states that it does not endorse paid application-help providers and advises applicants to use official, free resources from dental schools and recognised organisations.
Manchester also states that it does not endorse commercial interview-preparation courses and advises applicants not to become over-rehearsed.
Paid support cannot provide:
Guaranteed questions
Inside information
A guaranteed offer
Permission to share confidential content
A substitute for genuine reflection
Common Dentistry Interview Mistakes
Giving a Generic Why Dentistry Answer
Use evidence and reflection.
Criticising Medicine or Other Dental Professions
Show respect for all healthcare roles.
Listing Work Experience
Explain what you learned.
Describing Procedures in Excessive Detail
The interview is not a test of how many treatments you observed.
Breaking Patient Confidentiality
Remove identifying information.
Treating Manual Dexterity as a List of Hobbies
Explain the skill and development.
Claiming Manual Skill Guarantees Clinical Ability
Dental school will teach you the required techniques.
Reciting GDC Principles
Apply them to the scenario.
Making an Ethical Decision Too Quickly
Explore missing information.
Ignoring Costs
Dental consent can involve clear discussion of treatment cost as well as risks and options.
Ignoring Patient Anxiety
Communication is central to Dentistry.
Acting Outside Your Role
Recognise when to seek help.
Saying “Tell a Senior” Without Explaining
Explain why, who and what happens next.
Giving a Fake Weakness
Choose a genuine area for development.
Pretending to Know
Be honest and reason from the information provided.
Treating the Dentist as the Whole Team
Recognise the expertise of other dental professionals.
Over-Rehearsing
Prepare key points, not monologues.
Sharing Interview Questions
This undermines fairness and may breach interview rules.
Using AI or External Help
The interview must reflect your own thinking.
Dentistry Interview Preparation Checklist
Dental School Research
I know the interview format.
I know whether it is online or in person.
I know the date and time.
I know whether there are MMI stations.
I know whether manual dexterity is assessed.
I know whether there is a practical task.
I know what identification is required.
I have requested adjustments.
I have saved the admissions contact details.
Motivation
I can explain why Dentistry.
I can explain why not Medicine.
I understand the dentist’s role.
I understand the dental team.
I recognise the challenges of Dentistry.
I can explain why this dental school interests me.
I can discuss what makes a good dentist.
Career Exploration
I have reviewed dental work experience.
I have reviewed volunteering.
I have reviewed employment.
I can explain what I learned.
I can protect confidentiality.
I understand how Dentistry compares with other healthcare roles.
Skills and Attributes
I have evidence of communication.
I have evidence of teamwork.
I can discuss manual dexterity.
I can discuss feedback.
I can discuss failure.
I can discuss resilience.
I can discuss responsibility.
I can reflect honestly.
Professional Principles
I understand patient interests.
I understand consent.
I understand confidentiality.
I understand complaints.
I understand duty of candour.
I understand teamwork.
I understand professional competence.
I understand raising concerns.
I understand professional conduct.
Practice
I have practised ethics.
I have practised role-play.
I have practised communication.
I have practised article or data interpretation.
I have practised to time.
I have completed a mock interview.
I have received feedback.
I have improved my weakest areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dentistry Interviews
Do All Dental Schools Interview?
UK dental schools normally use interviews within selection for standard-entry Dentistry, although exact processes vary by university and applicant route.
Check the current 2027 entry requirements for every course.
What Is the Most Common Dentistry Interview Format?
Many dental schools use MMIs, while others use structured online or panel-style interviews.
There is no single national format.
When Are Dentistry Interviews?
They commonly take place between late autumn and early spring.
Manchester’s interviews, for example, normally run from January to March.
Does an Interview Mean You Will Get an Offer?
No.
It means that the dental school wishes to assess your application further.
What Questions Are Asked?
Common themes include:
Why Dentistry
Career exploration
Work experience
Manual dexterity
Communication
Teamwork
Ethics
Consent
Confidentiality
Professionalism
Current dental issues
Will They Ask About Your Personal Statement?
Possibly.
Dental schools use personal statements differently, but any information you submit may be discussed at interview.
Do You Need Work Experience in a Dental Practice?
Not every dental school requires a specific placement.
Applicants should demonstrate that they have made an informed choice through career exploration. Experience in dental or healthcare environments is recommended by many schools but requirements vary.
Is Virtual Work Experience Accepted?
Some schools may recognise virtual career exploration, but you must check the individual requirements.
What matters is whether you can explain what you learned and how it informed your decision.
How Do You Answer Why Dentistry?
Explain:
How your interest developed
How you explored the career
What you learned
Which aspects of the role suit you
Which challenges you recognise
How Do You Answer Why Dentistry Rather Than Medicine?
Focus on the features of Dentistry that genuinely attract you.
Do not criticise Medicine or describe Dentistry as easier.
Do You Need Manual Dexterity?
Dentistry involves precise practical work, and some schools may discuss or assess manual dexterity.
Not every school uses a practical dexterity test.
What Hobbies Demonstrate Manual Dexterity?
Possible examples include:
Art
Model making
Sewing
Musical instruments
Craft
Electronics
Cake decorating
Practical laboratory work
Explain how the activity developed precision, coordination and patience.
Should You Bring an Example of Manual Work?
Only when requested.
Follow the interview invitation.
Do You Need Clinical Dental Knowledge?
You are not normally expected to diagnose conditions or describe treatment in professional detail.
You should understand the broad role of a dentist and the profession.
Do You Need to Memorise the GDC Standards?
No.
Understand the principles and apply them to scenarios.
What Ethical Topics Should You Know?
Useful areas include:
Consent
Confidentiality
Patient choice
Complaints
Honesty
Patient safety
Raising concerns
Professional boundaries
Is There Always a Correct Ethical Answer?
No.
Interviewers may be assessing the quality of your reasoning and the factors you consider.
How Do You Answer a Consent Question?
Consider:
Clear information
Options
Risks
Benefits
Costs
Understanding
Voluntary choice
Ongoing consent
Documentation
How Do You Answer a Confidentiality Question?
Consider:
Patient permission
Serious risk
Your role
Professional advice
Minimum necessary disclosure
Documentation
How Do You Respond to a Complaint?
Listen, acknowledge the concern, follow the complaints process, involve an appropriate senior person and remain open where something went wrong.
What Makes a Good Dentist?
Possible qualities include:
Competence
Communication
Empathy
Manual precision
Integrity
Teamwork
Reflection
Commitment to learning
Explain rather than list.
What Current Issues Should You Know?
Possible topics include:
Access to dental care
Oral-health inequalities
Prevention
NHS Dentistry
Children’s oral health
Antimicrobial resistance
Cosmetic Dentistry
New technology
Use current, reliable sources.
Can One Bad Station Ruin an MMI?
A weak station can reduce your total, but the format normally gives you several opportunities to demonstrate different strengths.
Reset before the next station.
How Are Dentistry Interviews Scored?
Each dental school uses its own scoring system.
There is no universal pass mark.
How Long Should an Answer Be?
Long enough to answer clearly and provide evidence, but short enough to allow follow-up questions.
Should You Use STARR?
STARR is useful for experience-based questions.
It is less suitable for ethics, role-play or data interpretation.
Should You Memorise Answers?
No.
Prepare key points, evidence and frameworks.
What Should You Wear?
Choose clean, comfortable and presentable clothing.
Smart-casual clothing is generally appropriate unless the university gives different instructions.
Are Dentistry Interviews Online?
Some are online and others are in person.
Check your university’s current process.
Can You Get Reasonable Adjustments?
Yes.
Contact the dental school early and follow its process.
What If You Are Ill?
Tell the university before the interview where possible.
Can You Use AI During an Online Interview?
No.
The Dental Schools Council prohibits AI tools, chatbots and external help during online dental school interviews.
Can You Share Interview Questions Afterwards?
No.
Do not distribute confidential live interview content.
Do You Need Paid Interview Coaching?
No.
The Dental Schools Council does not endorse paid application-help companies and recommends official free resources.
When Will You Receive a Decision?
This varies between dental schools.
Some decisions may be released after all interviews are complete.
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