Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Dental Technician Roles – 2025

Preparing for a dental technician job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and experience working with a wide range of dental procedures and equipment. Whether you’re applying for a role as a dental laboratory technician, orthodontic technician, or general dental technician, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. Why did you decide to become a dental technician?
  I have always been interested in both science and art, and dental technology allows me to combine these passions. I also enjoy working with my hands and creating something tangible that can improve someone's oral health and confidence.
• 2. What do you think is the most important quality for a dental technician to have?
  Attention to detail is crucial for a dental technician. We work with small, delicate materials and any mistake can greatly affect the final outcome of a restoration or appliance.
• 3. How do you ensure the quality of your work as a dental technician?
  I have developed a thorough quality control process that involves double-checking my work and allowing for multiple rounds of quality checks from my supervisor. I also constantly strive to improve my skills and stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and technology.
• 4. How do you handle stressful situations in the dental laboratory?
  I have learned to stay calm and focused when faced with a stressful situation. I prioritize tasks, communicate clearly with my colleagues, and ask for assistance when needed.
• 5. Can you give an example of a time when you encountered a difficult problem during a dental procedure and how you solved it?
  During a complex implant restoration, I discovered that one of the components was slightly damaged. Instead of rushing and potentially compromising the outcome, I alerted my supervisor, ordered a new component, and completed the restoration once the replacement arrived.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. Can you walk us through the process of creating a dental appliance or restoration?
  The first step is to take impressions of the patient's mouth and then create a mold. Using this mold, I will then sculpt the appliance or restoration from acrylic or wax. Once the design is approved, I will then use various tools and techniques to shape and refine the final product.
• 7. How familiar are you with digital dentistry?
  I received training in digital dentistry during my education and have also completed additional courses to stay updated with the latest technology. I have experience with various CAD/CAM systems and have created digital designs for several complex cases.
• 8. What materials have you worked with for dental prosthetics?
  I am familiar with a wide range of materials, including porcelain, acrylic, and ceramic. I have also worked with newer materials like zirconia and have experience with different types of bonding agents.
• 9. How do you handle the calibration and maintenance of dental laboratory equipment?
  I have a detailed maintenance schedule for all equipment and perform regular checks to ensure accuracy and functionality. I also keep all equipment properly calibrated and adjust as needed.
• 10. Can you tell us about any experience you have working with removable orthodontic appliances?
  I have created several removable orthodontic appliances, including retainers and clear aligners. I am familiar with different types of materials and can create a customized appliance based on a patient's specific needs.

Cultural Fit

• 11. How do you prioritize patient care and comfort while working on a tight deadline?
  Patient care is always my top priority, and I will never compromise on that. I have learned to effectively manage my time and multitask to ensure both quality care and timely delivery of restorations and appliances.
• 12. How do you handle disagreements or conflicts with colleagues?
  I believe in clear communication and addressing conflicts directly with my colleagues in a respectful manner. I am always open to hearing different perspectives and finding a solution that works for everyone.
• 13. What motivates you to continually improve as a dental technician?
  I am motivated by the satisfaction of knowing that I am helping people and improving their oral health and confidence. I also enjoy the challenge of mastering new techniques and using the latest technology to create the best possible results for my patients.
• 14. How do you stay updated with the latest trends and developments in the dental technology field?
  I regularly attend conferences and workshops, read industry publications, and participate in online forums and discussions. I also enjoy networking with other dental professionals to stay informed about advancements in the field.
• 15. Have you ever faced a difficult situation with a patient, and how did you handle it?
  I once had a patient who was very anxious about dental procedures. I took the time to listen to their concerns and explain the process step by step, while also ensuring their comfort and providing reassurance throughout the appointment. By the end of the procedure, the patient was much more relaxed and satisfied with the results.

Behavioral Questions

• 16. How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects?
  I create a plan and set priorities based on deadlines and level of complexity. I also regularly check in with my supervisor to ensure I am managing my time effectively and make adjustments as needed.
• 17. Can you give an example of a time when you had to adapt to a new process or technology quickly?
  During my time as a dental technician, my organization started using a new CAD/CAM system. I quickly familiarized myself with the new system by attending training courses and practicing on test cases. I soon became proficient in using the system and even helped my colleagues with their own training.
• 18. How do you handle constructive criticism?
  I appreciate constructive criticism as it helps me learn and improve. I take feedback with an open mind, ask questions to better understand, and actively work on making necessary changes.
• 19. Can you tell us about a time when you had to think outside the box to solve a problem in the dental laboratory?
  There was a case where the patient's denture kept breaking due to their strong bite. I suggested using a different material that could better withstand the force and create a more durable restoration. The solution was successful, and the patient was happy with the results.
• 20. How do you ensure accuracy and precision when working on a project with tight specifications and deadlines?
  I am meticulous in my work and pay close attention to detail, especially with cases that have specific requirements. I also double-check my work and seek feedback from my supervisor to ensure I am meeting all specifications.