why dental school essay

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How to Answer “Why This Dental School”

How to answer the “why this dental school?” interview question can be a puzzle for aspiring dental professionals. It’s an important question – up there with the  “why do you want to be a dentist?”  in terms of its ability to convey your suitability for a career as a health professional. With  dental school acceptance rates  being so competitive  it’s your job to convince them that you are a good fit for them. In this article, we’ll show you how to answer this common dental school interview question and sample answers to guide you.

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Article Contents 10 min read

Sample answer to “why this dental school” interview question.

I’m ambitious. My fascination with technology and design has influenced my academic pursuits and hobbies since high school, where I took every technology and science course available to me, in addition to joining the Coding Club and volunteering as a mathematics tutor. As someone who had a natural aptitude for academics, these extracurriculars taught me the importance of teamwork and compassion for those who are struggling.

During my undergrad, I leveraged my leadership and engagement to apply to a biomedical engineering firm for a two-year internship in software engineering and was accepted. After being involved in several research projects developing model prostheses in miniature, I became fascinated with the small machines we created using digital printing and soon realized that I was very good at manipulating tiny mechanisms with precision in confined spaces. Simultaneously, a discussion with one of my biology professors led to her suggestion that I consider oral and maxillofacial surgery as a profession. She told me that it was rare to come across a student who seemed to possess the “whole package” needed for this exacting specialty, and the notion of pursuing this expertise has intrigued me ever since.

My goal as a student at Boston’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, one of the top academic and urban research institutions in the world, will be to positively influence the course of our profession. With your educational programs as cornerstones, I hope to first build a solid foundation of scientific inquiry and clinical experience, which will be fully encompassed by the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. I think I am that highly motivated candidate you seek who wants to contribute to research initiatives as a student. But I am also interested in your advanced programs. For example, you offer the Certificate in Digital Dentistry, which is perfectly aligned with my current research interests.

Although I may have a somewhat unconventional background as an aspiring dentist, and my story may differ from that of a candidate whose interest in dentistry was sparked by the human component, I do recognize that the interpersonal dimension is a key aspect of this profession in the form of patient care. You’ll find that I make a compassionate, communicative dentist, I’m sure. But if I’m honest, I have more experience in problem solving and teamwork. In recent years, my only patients have been little robots. My dream would be to specialize in operative dentistry as a surgeon, but I am convinced that my greatest contribution will ultimately be in design.

Few schools on my list check all the boxes in the way that Boston University does. Most importantly, I know that I will be able to jump into research almost immediately, given the outstanding opportunities available. I can work toward my degree while progressing science and learning the hands-on techniques of dental medicine, with the full support of the school. There is also the option of formally combining a clinical training program with a research program once I have established a clear research direction. For all these reasons, Boston’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine is my top choice.

Dental school interview questions  take different forms, and the way you respond depends on the type and purpose of the question. Keeping in mind that your main objective with your “why this dental school?” answer is to show how you align with the school, the following strategies (used in the above example) will be effective.

Captivating Introduction

As with any response to a prompt, whether in the form of a short answer, essay, or interview question, you should start with a hook. In the above example, the candidate immediately grabs your attention with the words, “ I’m ambitious. ” The conciseness of this statement is almost guaranteed to take the interviewers by surprise, as the topic of the question lends itself to what could otherwise be a stiff, wordy response. Students tend to be naturally intimidated by the idea of telling a school’s representatives what is good about their institution. So, by centering themselves from the get-go, the candidate avoids the usual awkwardness.

States Goals Clearly

The answer lays out the candidate’s long-term objectives and links them to the ways the school can help the student achieve the anticipated outcomes. Although the candidate has an unconventional background, they can clearly show how their education, interests, and employment are perfectly aligned with the dental program to which they are applying.

Shows Real Experience

T he candidate provides actual examples of their experiences to connect their dental school ambitions with their previous employment and research experience. If it is an open interview, this will remind the interviewers of what they read in the employment section of the student’s centralized or school-specific application. And if it is a closed interview, this will introduce the interviewers to the candidate personally. The story about how the student’s AutoCAD career led them indirectly to dentistry is unique and intellectually intriguing. Crucially, it sets the candidate apart and will be memorable. Moreover, it highlights their  manual dexterity  – an essential ability for any dentist and a skill you should draw attention to during the application process. 

Demonstrates Competency for Dental School

Compassion, communication, problem solving, and teamwork are all key qualities of an aspiring dental professional. Moreover, they are among the  ADEA’s entry-level competencies .

Demonstrating their knowledge and application of these competencies is another way the candidate in our example signals their readiness for dental school. Note that the student also avoids a potential red flag by being transparent about not having much clinical or patient care experience. Although having  dental school extracurriculars  is recommended, if it happens that you do not, you should not hide this fact. In the example, the candidate does not have many professional experiences that are related to health care per se, but they manage to highlight skills one might use in dentistry; thus, they ensure that their distinctive background is seen as a feature, not a bug. 

Check Out Our Podcast for More Free & Useful Content ","buttonText":"Go to Podcast","buttonColor":"#ff6600","bannerUnderText":null,"belowButtonText1":null,"belowButtonText2":null,"trustpilot":false}' :url='"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/ca\/podcast\/bemo-admissions-experts-podcast\/id1642349082"' code='bannerpodcast' background-color='#000000' button-color='#ff6600' banner-image=''> Demonstrates Knowledge of the Dental School

You do not have to flatter the interviewers or tout the merits of the dental program to be effective, if you are applying to one of the best dental schools , they will know how they rank already. In fact, just talking about rankings may have the opposite effect.

When thinking about  how to become a dentist , each student will have an idea of the type of campus, field of dentistry, curriculum, faculty, and many other aspects of their education that they might like; all these aspects of a school can be discussed when answering the “why this dental school” question. Becoming a dentist takes a lot of time and effort, and your answer should reflect the research necessary to undertake such a big decision! Ask yourself:

• Why do I want to attend this specific school?
• What do I appreciate about the program and its curriculum?
• What distinguishes this program from that of a different school offering a comparable one?
• Is there a particular degree, program, certificate, department, teaching approach, or research project that makes attending this specific school ideal? 

Then, research the program until you know it inside and out.

In the example, the candidate’s answer brings up a specific certificate the student is interested in, which shows that they did their research. Their answer also includes a nod to the school’s website, where it mentions the desired student profile: “ highly motivated applicants who want to contribute to research. ” So if your dream school highlights the importance of research, make sure you mention this and emphasize your undergraduate research experience .

Underscores Potential Contributions

Although the student in the example has not decided on a specific path or specialty yet, they nevertheless show that they have central interests and a clear direction. They describe what they will bring to the school, even before starting their formal training.

Finishes Strong

Much like the  "why this college" essay , your interview answer should have a beginning, middle, and end. But you do not have to use a formal-sounding conclusion in an interview answer or necessarily refer back to your opening statement. Remember that an interview answer, unless otherwise specified, should not run over 3 minutes: that’s about 400 words or less. So, you should endeavor to say everything you want to in the body of your answer and continue right to the end. Your last sentence can be an open-ended, brief statement that you deliver with a smile. 

Dental school advisors can help you prep for interviews, plus much more!

“Why This Dental School?” Interview Question Sample Answer #2

From a young age, I’ve been captivated by the intersection of art and science, which initially drew me to the world of sculpture and design. As I progressed through my education, this fascination evolved into an interest in dentistry, where I recognized the potential to blend creativity with meticulous scientific precision. During my undergraduate years, I pursued a degree in biology while also taking advanced courses in fine arts, which enhanced my appreciation for detail and form. This unique combination of skills was further developed during my volunteer work at a local dental clinic, where I assisted with patient care and observed the impact of innovative dental techniques on patient outcomes. This experience solidified my decision to pursue a career in dentistry, particularly in the area of prosthodontics, where I can apply both my artistic and scientific interests.

The reason I am particularly drawn to the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine is due to its emphasis on integrating cutting-edge technology with patient-centered care. The school’s strong focus on research, especially in the field of prosthodontics, aligns perfectly with my aspirations. I am especially interested in the advanced prosthodontics program, which provides hands-on experience with the latest digital imaging and fabrication technologies—tools that are essential for creating custom dental solutions. Additionally, the interdisciplinary approach at Penn Dental Medicine, where collaboration across specialties is encouraged, will allow me to refine my skills in a holistic environment that mirrors real-world practice.

Furthermore, the school’s commitment to community service resonates deeply with my values. The opportunity to participate in outreach programs, such as the PennSmiles mobile dental clinic, will enable me to give back to underserved communities while honing my clinical skills. I believe that dental care should be accessible to all, and Penn’s dedication to making this a reality is something I am eager to be a part of.

In conclusion, the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine offers the perfect blend of innovative research, practical experience, and community engagement that aligns with my professional goals. I am confident that this environment will not only help me become a skilled prosthodontist but also allow me to contribute meaningfully to the field of dental medicine.

My journey toward dentistry began during a summer internship at a local dental clinic in Vancouver, where I was deeply inspired by the profound impact dental professionals have on improving patients' quality of life. Witnessing the precision and care required in each procedure, I realized that dentistry perfectly combines my passion for healthcare with my love for hands-on work. During my undergraduate studies in biomedical sciences, I pursued opportunities to volunteer in various community health initiatives, where I provided oral hygiene education to underserved populations. These experiences reinforced my desire to become a dentist who not only excels in clinical skills but also contributes to public health.

The University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry is my top choice because of its outstanding reputation as Canada’s leading dental school, offering a curriculum that balances cutting-edge research with extensive clinical training. The school’s emphasis on evidence-based dentistry resonates with my commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. I am particularly drawn to the Comprehensive Care Program, where students manage patient cases from diagnosis through treatment, simulating real-world practice in a supportive learning environment. This program will allow me to develop the critical thinking and technical skills necessary to become a competent and confident dentist.

Moreover, the Faculty of Dentistry’s strong focus on research, especially in the areas of oral health and disease prevention, aligns with my interests in contributing to the advancement of dental science. I am excited about the opportunity to participate in the school’s research initiatives, particularly those related to improving dental care for underserved populations, which is a cause close to my heart. The possibility of engaging in community outreach programs, such as the school's involvement in Toronto's dental public health initiatives, will allow me to combine my clinical training with meaningful service to the community.

In summary, the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry offers the ideal environment for me to grow as a dental professional. Its integration of comprehensive clinical training, research opportunities, and community service perfectly aligns with my career goals, making it the best place for me to pursue my dental education.

How to Answer the “Why This Dental School?” Question

We have already covered many of the elements you should include in your “why this dental school?” answer by pointing them out in the sample above. But does that really tell you  how  to answer?

 First, remember these tips for preparing your answer:

• Research the school you’re applying to/interviewing with. What qualities and experiences do they value most?
• Based on research, brainstorm stories, aspects of the school, or personal qualities you will highlight in your answer.
• Use stories and examples to showcase relevant qualities and confidence.
• Use bullet points to practice. Don’t memorize a script, or you will come off sounding stiff and robotic.
• Use mock interviews based on the model of  mock medical school interviews  to practice or invest in some dental school interview prep .
• Pay attention to tone and pacing. Dentistry is a multifaced career and demonstrating good communication skills will certainly bring you success in your interview. 

In other words, how to answer “why this dental school?” does not mean just listing a series of facts you know about the school or reciting a memorized speech. Although you will want to prepare and rehearse the major parts of your answer by writing down your ideas in bullet-point form, you should seek to remember the content but not the script.

Indeed, the “why this dental school?” question is one you can prepare for, and you can expect some version of it if you make it through to the interview. Not only do you have to come across as sincere, but your answer must have substance and depth. With a strong start, you’ll likely capture and hold your audience’s attention throughout your answer and interview.  

The dental school admissions committee want to know why you wish to attend their school specifically, based on your goals, interests, and passions, to determine whether will you be a good fit with their program.

This question will usually only come up during your interview, but it could also appear as a short answer question or essay in the ADEA AADSAS supplemental application.

Invitations to interviews are sent out by schools for slots beginning in November and running to March.

Your answer should be around 2-3 minutes, unless otherwise indicated.

Of course, you can mention it if it is part of what attracted you to a school. For example, if they offer a specific renowned program that you are interested in, it would be essential to discuss it. 

Focus on your goals, interests, and passions that align with the school’s program.

Avoid only focusing on things like prestige or overly broad/vague statements that could apply to any school.

Engaging a  dental school advisor  is a great way to get a set of expert eyes on your application. Your interview is what will decide whether you get in to dental school or not, and proper preparation is key. 

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“Why Dentistry?” – How to Respond to This Common Dental School Interview Question

Last updated: March 4, 2023

“So, why do you want to be a dentist?”

This is one the  most   common dental school interview questions , and is definitely one that you should be prepared to answer!

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It can sometimes be overwhelming to think through how you want to respond to this, so let’s go through some elements to consider for your response.

Ultimately, there is going to be a lot of commonalities between students in these responses and that’s OK! Don’t force trying to come up with something 100% unique, it’s unnecessary. Rather, develop a response that is true to you.

Why dentistry, why not medicine?

So the first thing that I’ll say about why dentistry and why not medicine is that I think it’s important to realize that you shouldn’t be choosing a career in dentistry if you haven’t seriously considered a career in medicine . And that’s because the careers have so much overlap . In a lot of ways, being a dentist is just a specific type of medicine – you are literally a doctor focused on the mouth. Dentists don’t just do fillings, crowns, root canals, and extractions, they diagnose oral pathologies that medical doctors do not.

So part of making an informed decision to become a dentist is having seriously thought about and considered medicine and then made an active decision not to pursue medicine but instead pursue dentistry

So first, let’s talk about some ways that these careers are similar.

1. We’re going to need to be medical experts that have a wealth of information to do these jobs well, and that means we’re going to be working hard in school for an extended time.

2. As we accumulate that knowledge, in both fields we’re going to be working with patients – both fields are primarily patient facing.

You are going to be interacting and helping patients everyday, which means:

• Listening to their needs a, their issues and unique circumstances, issues
• Thinking about their medical history, what medications they take, and any other factors that could influence treatment
• Doing diagnostic tests and evaluations, making an accurate diagnosis , and then helping facilitate treatment

3. You’re going to be communicating with them, your staff, and other professionals. You’re going to be collaborating with others.

4. And in both you’re going to have a phenomenal career that is interesting, varied, and super rewarding most days.

Example talking point:

It’s a great question, and I definitely spent a lot of time thinking about medicine as well before I ultimately settled on dentistry. There’s just so much overlap between the two fields. My father is actually a physician, and it was him that got me initially interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, gradually narrowing down to medicine or dentistry. And as I explored both the fields, I saw how much similarity there was – the education, the scientific approach to patient care, having to have knowledge of the how the body works, medical conditions, and medications, and how you work out a diagnosis and initiate treatment. So I’d say they are more similar than different. But there were specific parts of dentistry that really appealed to me.

OK, so there’s a lot of overlap between the two. Then what makes dentistry unique? I’m going to discuss a handful of talking points to give you ideas for what you can bring up in your interview – but as always, this isn’t an exhaustive list – so bring in your own experiences and observations when thinking about why dentistry specifically.

“How do I say something unique?”

The first thing that I’ll say about all the reasons people respond with to why dentistry – truth be told, there’s nothing super unique or specific that people mention that is 100% just related to dentistry . Most things you say could say probably are found in medicine too (eg. you can work with your hands in general surgery just like you do in dentistry.

But that being said, some things you find in dentistry more commonly than in medicine – general dentists work with their hands everyday but most physicians do not – so I don’t want you to get so caught up in worrying that a point needs to be 100% unique to dentistry to be worthwhile to mention – because there is going to be a lot of overlap between the professions. So if something is more common in dentistry compared to medicine, that is a perfectly fine way to differentiate them.

Also, the answers you give may be cliche , that many students bring up these points, and that’s OK . You’re not likely going to have some 100% unique take – because there are commonalities to what draws people to the field. But we just want to show that we’re not being superficial in mentioning these ideas, we want to showcase a deeper understanding. So with that, let’s get into some talking points that might contribute to you picking dentistry over medicine.

Operative, working with your hands, aesthetics

Dentistry is largely an operative field . And that means that as a general dentist, with most patients, you’re going to be doing some operative procedure, whether that be a filling, crown, a dental extraction, a root canal. And the frequency of which that you’re doing this is much greater than you’d find even in operative fields in medicine, which have a lot more administrative work, which includes doing rounds on patients prepping for surgery, doing a follow up on surgery, etc. A dentist can make a diagnosis and start working on a patient within five minute, whereas the same can’t really be said within medicine.

Working with your hands is an extension of this. So again, while there are fields within medicine where you are working with your hands like orthopaedic surgery and otolaryngology – in dentistry you’re creating things with your hands on a hourly basis. It is an incredibly precise field . We’re talking on the order of a half millimeter sometimes, with very specific angles. In fact, it is so precise that some general dentists and most root canal specialists use microscopes while they’re working, So if you’re someone that likes being incredibly precise and working on a very small scale, then dentistry might be something specifically that’s a good field for you.

I just love what dentists do every single day. You get to see a problem, and try to come up with a solution with the patient. And then you get to carry it out with your own two hands. I actually got the opportunity to do some test drilling on an extracted tooth in some of my dental shadowing, and it was incredibly difficult to make anything that resembled what the dentist was showing me. But I just love how you are getting to do something with your hands that is directly benefiting patients. And unlike medicine, where I found there was lots of non-operative time dentistry, it seemed like every day you get to spend the majority of your time working on patient. I’m not trying to minimize the fact that dentists also have to write charts, do their recall exams, follow-ups, and consultations. But the majority of the day you’re working with your hands, and honestly it just looks fun.

And there’s also a very rewarding aesthetic and artistic aspect to the work that a dentist does . If you’re restoring a tooth with a filling, you can do your best to replicate the shape and contours of the cusps, and how the opposing arch bites into your filling. If you’re planning a case to improve someone smile, you can use veneers, cosmetic bonding, and orthodontics to, in a relatively short timeframe, allow someone to feel more confident and happy with their appearance. And confidence in your smile makes a huge difference in people’s lives !

I really enjoyed in dentistry how the clinician can really choose how artistic they’d like to get with their restorative procedures. I shadowed one dentist that used a small paintbrush as part of her adjustment of the composite, she really tried to rebuild the natural shape of the teeth, and even added artificial staining within the grooves. Other dentists took more of a strictly functional approach and we’re mainly just concerned about getting a tight contact between the teeth and avoiding any voids in their fillings And this isn’t to put down or prop up either approach, but I think it’s a very enjoyable idea that you can choose to be as artistic as you’d like to be in this field.

Dentistry really does afford you the ability to r elatively quickly have an impact on the wellbeing of your patients . So whether that be a patient in severe pain with a dental infection, which you can relieve. Or maybe a patient has a fractured tooth, and because of the proximity of the fracture to the tooth’s nerve, the tooth is quite sensitive. Or maybe the sharp part is rubbing on their tongue, and restoring that tooth with a filling allows the patient to often have very quick relief from the discomfort. Or a patient comes in with a fractured front tooth affecting their smile, and you can recreate what they had, and allow them to walk out of your office with a smile again .

And partly because of the immediate impact nature of dentistry, it can be a very rewarding career for the clinician. A patient’s mouth is a very intimate part of their body. when something hurts or is off, it can really affect an individual. And because of the quick impact that dentists can make, patients can literally get out of your chair and have their issue dealt with. Having made a patient happy is truly gratifying and that is a huge reward of the career.

So, with what you’re doing, you are having this outcome for a patient who is coming in with a very specific need, and you get to help them with that need. Whether they’re in pain, or they have something that is bothering with their smile – I got to see how rewarding that can be. They come in with a problem and as they left, their issue for the most part had been dealt with. And that type of interaction with the patients who get to leave almost back to normal seemed very gratifying to me. The fact that you get to help multiple patients every day who either have some issue, or you do a procedure to prevent a future issue, is really energizing to me.

I’m connecting this to my shadowing experience and my observations in the dental field, and s howcasing the insights I took away about the rewards of the career to the interviewers.

Relationships

General dentists are lucky to often keep patients over a long period of time , sometimes a lifetime. Seeing the same patients come in, and developing a relationship with them and their families really is rewarding . Although some physicians get this as well, it is commonplace for a general dentist. You can even see patients from different generations within a family as a dentist. And with this, you get to know each other, develop trust and understanding. And seeing a long-term patient becomes part social as you catchup with what’s new.

While not unique just to dentistry – something that really stuck out to me with family dentistry is the special relationships that the dentist forms with their patients over a long period of time. There were numerous times I sat with a patient while the dentist had stepped out of the room and the patient started raving about how great this doctor is, and how long they’ve been coming there. And I saw that great dentists retain their patients over a long period of time, sometimes, over a lifetime. And those types of interactions where the dentist has a long term relationship with the patient seemed very fulfilling to me. There was a ton of trust that had been earned. And one of the things that really fills my cup is connection with others, so these types of patient doctor relationships is definitely an appealing aspect of dentistry to me.

Balance between work and life

Dentistry is a field that allows you to decide when you want to work, and how much you want to work . And there is absolutely nothing wrong with saying that, so you don’t need to think that this is a bad thing to mention in the interview. Anyone at your interview is somehow associated with dentistry. And they know that’s a very real reason why people go into the field and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with acknowledging that as having a healthy work life balance and integration of those two parts of your lives is a part of enjoying a well rounded being . Having the ability to do other things besides the career, which can give you more energy when you are on the job.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re an associate dentist or a practice owner. Even as an associate, you can look for a job that you only have to work a couple of days a week, if that’s what you’d like. You can choose to only accept a job that doesn’t require you to work evenings or weekends. You can choose to only look for a job in a specific area. Whereas in medicine, often the hospital will dictate what hours you do need to work.

I incredibly excited for my future career as a dentist. But I also have a lot of plans for my life like raising a family getting an opportunity to travel, playing tennis, spending weekends in the country, and dentistry is appealing as a career that allows you to have a healthy balance between work and the other aspects of your life. And when I was considering what career I wanted to pursue, being able to be in control of my own destiny was important to me. And while I know that dentistry will have it’s challenges and commitments, and it’s not all just going to be roses – there will be times when appointments run behind and I have to stay late, or coming in on an evening or weekend for an emergency appointment for a patient in pain. But overall I know that I have a much more regular schedule as a dentist, which means that I can both enjoy my career, and the pursuit of other parts of my life at the same time.

Wide and deep

Being a general dentist gives you a huge amount of opportunity for variety in your day. With every procedure we do, that specific procedure is going to take on its own unique way of being approached. Each filling is unique based on the tooth decay, the fracture, or how we need to build it up. Each extraction requires planning out how you’re going to approach it, and then adapting as the tooth crumbles, or fractures. With root canals, each tooth has a different canal system anatomy. So, even within each procedure that we do, there is a ton of variety.

And then there are so many procedures dentists can learn . With general dentists the phrase “jack of all trades master of none” is sometimes used – and it may or may not be true. Because you actually do have the ability to get quite good at many new procedures by pursuing continuing dental education . And some dentists become very passionate about certain types of dentistry – whether that’s mastering occlusion (how the teeth bite together), getting really into aesthetics, learning to do more complex endodontics (root canals), or learning dental implants. There really is a lot of opportunity for professional development and continuing to grow and evolve throughout your career.

I really am someone who loves to learn, and try new things. And it’s very encouraging for me that in dentistry, you can continue to evolve and grow as a dentist. What I’ve seen in a lot of my shadowing is that newer dentists are working hard on the fundamentals like getting better at fillings and improving their speed but as you progress through your career you can choose to take on more challenging cases, and learn new procedures. Like for example at one of the offices I was in, there was a general dentist who, after 30 years has decided to only place dental implants. And he goes to different offices in the city one day a month and just places implants, and he learned how to do implants and bone grafting just through continuing education in a multi weekend residency. So a very appealing aspect of dentistry to me is that you can find what you’re good at and what you can enjoy and learn to do more of it.

Opportunities to specialize

Again, not just unique to dentistry – but a great thing about dentistry is that there’s the opportunity to specialize . So if you develop a passion about something, either in dental school or when you begin your career as a general dentist, you can go back and do a residency and specialize, and instead of casting a very wide net with what you do as a general dentist, you go very narrow and deep and become world class at doing a very specific thing,

To make sure you’re familiar with the dental specialties, let’s quickly go over them:

• Paediatrics – treating children’s dental needs
• Periodontics – dealing with the bone and gums surrounding teeth as well as placing implants
• Prosthodontics – making dental prostheses or providing replacements for teeth like dentures, implants, implant supported prosthetics, and complex crown work
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery – extractions, dental implants, and advanced surgical procedures in the mouth and the facial region
• Oral pathology – looking at pathological conditions within the oral cavity
• Endodontics – root canal treatment
• Oral radiology using advanced techniques to radiographically, analyze the teeth and the jaw
• Dental public health – looking at dental disease within populations
• Dental anesthesiology – providing sedation for patients undergoing dental procedures

Personal experience

Finally, you might have a very specific personal experience that you’ve had, which is a main driver for why you want to do dentistry . Maybe an interaction that you had with a dentist, or something that you witnessed in shadowing that you think is unique to the field or really left a mark on you. This would be a great time to bring it up!

What about if you applied to both dentistry and medicine?

If you applied to both dental school and medical school, this isn’t something you need to volunteer up and mention unprompted. In your dental school interview, I would just focus on what motivates you to want to pursue a career in dentistry.

However, f they explicitly ask you did you also apply to medical school , because many pre-dents do, I’d answer honestly and reply yes . I would just focus on why you feel there is so much overlap between the two fields, what elements of both would be rewarding to you. And I would try and reframe the conversation to what you like about so much in both of those careers, rather than let the conversation focus on the fact that you perhaps aren’t fully committed to just the one. If the question does come up, don’t let it phase you. It’s pretty common for a predental student to be interested in medicine , and many apply to both.

Preparing for a Dental School Interview?

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Dr. Joel Meyerson, DDS

Crafting a Winning Dental School Personal Statement Examples: Guide & Samples

Only 54.3% of dental school applicants get accepted each year. Nearly half face rejection. In this competitive field, your personal statement can set you apart. Let's explore standout examples to help you craft a winning essay.

A terrified girl with a swollen upper lip trudges into the endodontic clinic. She needs an emergency retreat of her root canal due to a poor previous obturation. As the needle pierces her gums, childhood memories of getting root canals without anesthesia flood her body with even greater pain and fear. Her student dentist wipes away her tears and holds her hand tighter. “The worst part is over,” remarks the soothing voice of the resident as she puts away the syringe. She is amazed by how fast the pain goes away. This girl was me three years ago, and it was this moment that I first envisioned dentistry as my career. I was born and raised Uyghur, a Turkic ethnic minority in Central Asia. Growing up in a mixture of Turkish, Middle-Eastern, and Asian cultures helped me appreciate cultural diversity and collaborative environments later in life. Shortly after my high school graduation, I made the biggest decision of my life: to pursue an undergraduate degree in the United States, where I would be able to blossom in a free academic environment. I packed my ambitious heart and dreams into a suitcase and headed for the U.S. Being away from home for the first time, I was thrilled to explore the world on my own. Determined to overcome the language barrier, I took every possible opportunity to practice my English skills while attending a language institute. Within six months, I passed the placement test and started taking college-level courses. Small victories like this strengthened my determination, and prepared me to overcome future obstacles that I faced while pursuing undergraduate studies and finding my career path. Dealing with frequent illnesses as a child led me to spend a lot of time in the care of others. Nurses, doctors, and dentists became my heroes, and I dreamed of being like them one day. In order to gain more experience in the healthcare field while pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, I became a Certified Nursing Assistant and began working in an assisted-living facility caring for residents with Alzheimer’s disease. The bonds I built with these kind people and their families helped me realize how much I love caring for others and making positive impacts on their lives. Around the same time, I became a patient at the University of Florida College of Dentistry team clinics. A long history of poor dental care led me to undergo an extensive amount of dental work at the clinic. This is where I first met Magda, my student dentist from the root canal story. As soon as I expressed my interest in the healthcare field, Magda enthusiastically began explaining dental procedures to me, teaching me to recognize dental instruments and even how to interpret x-rays. Her proficient skills, professionalism, and concerns for patients truly inspired me to further explore dentistry as my prospective profession. I subsequently started shadowing at the team clinic, which enabled me to gain a closer look at dentistry. From various types of periodontal therapies, restorations, and extractions – every procedure I assisted with, pumped my body full of adrenaline. I fell in love with how much creativity is utilized in dentistry and relished every bit of patient interaction. The knowledge from the team clinic further inspired me to pursue a community-based dental experience. I began to shadow Dr. XXXX, a general dentist at ABC Dental Clinic. ABC is a community for people with developmental disabilities. Volunteering at the clinic has been the most eye-opening and rewarding experience I have had in my limited exposure to dentistry. Most of the patients are not verbally responsive and are very challenging to work with. Despite these obstacles, Dr. Garvey’s patience and empathy makes everything possible. His unwavering commitment to serve the underserved population is inspiring me to become a dentist like him. From there, I started working at the UFCD Pediatric Dental Clinic as a dental assistant. Luckily, I never had to return to the endodontic clinic again as a patient, but my unflinching determination in pursuing a dental career has only grown stronger since. Utilizing both creativity and discipline in caring for patients, serving the underserved, and relieving pain is what I have found I love doing the most. If that can become a lifelong career, then I am confident that dentistry is, absolutely, my future vocation. Even better, I will be the first Uyghur dentist in the U.S., now wouldn’t that be something?

🎓 GradGPT Score: 92/100 🌟

Excellent Dental Personal Statement

What makes this essay great? The essay is well-structured and readable, with a readability score of 10, which is within the normal range for a personal statement. The structure is clear, and the coherence is good. There are no inconsistencies, clichés, or unnecessary flattery, and the writing style is engaging.

• Introduction: Strong and engaging start, drawing the reader in with a vivid personal experience.
• Cultural Background: Effectively highlights your unique background as an Uyghur and your adaptation to the U.S.
• Academic Journey: Clear narrative of overcoming challenges, particularly the language barrier, and achieving small victories.
• Healthcare Experience: Shows a genuine passion for caring for others, with specific examples of your work as a CNA.
• Exposure to Dentistry: Well-detailed experiences with the dental clinic, showcasing your growing interest and knowledge in the field.
• Community Involvement: The volunteering section is impactful, demonstrating your commitment to serving underserved populations.
• Conclusion: Strong and confident, reiterating your determination and the uniqueness of being the first Uyghur dentist in the U.S.

My grandfather made me fall in love with the quote: “Use your smile to change the world, don’t let the world change your smile.” I grew up without my parents, and faced adversity and bullying throughout my childhood. It took a toll on my confidence, made me shy, and discouraged me from smiling. Whenever I feel discouraged, my grandfather’s words always comfort me and push me toward my goals. Last year, I found it incredibly painful to deal with his passing after he battled nasal cavity cancer for eight years. He persevered through harsh medical treatments and never stopped smiling in front of me. Even after his dentures stopped fitting him, he would still smile. He gradually lost his appetite and without dentures, he became nutrient deficient since he could not consume the range of food that he needed. This was when I learned about the importance of dentures and their impact on a person’s health.  Watching how strong he was, I yearned to make him a perfect set of dentures as a special gift one day. My ambition was to watch my grandfather enjoy a wide variety of food and to see his old smile again. Since then, I began to see the power behind my grandfather’s smile. His smile speaks for the positivity, courage, and strength that taught me to embrace obstacles and challenges because they will help me thrive as an independent and a mature adult. Although I lost my grandfather, the pain of losing him strengthened my character and pushed me to pursue my dream to become a successful dentist. During my last quarter at UC San Diego, my grandfather’s condition worsened. I constantly worried about him, as he was the only close family I had. There were times when I struggled to balance family responsibilities with academics, and I had felt mentally and physically exhausted every day. Every time I went to see him in the hospital, he told me not to worry about him and to focus on my academics. My anxiety took a toll on my grades and I realized that it helped neither my dream nor his health. Gradually, I learned to manage my time and my stress, and improved my grades later on through more coursework in post-baccalaureate program. Luckily, my aunt is capable of taking care of my grandmother now, so I can further my studies and work as a dental assistant during my free time.  As a dental assistant, I channeled my desire of taking care of my grandfather into taking care of patients. During the preparation for an implant case, I noticed a patient was clenching her fists anxiously. I offered her with a cup of water and started a conversation to ease her worries. Later, she calmed down and was ready for the procedure. She was cooperative when I took a periapical x-ray on the difficult position of tooth #15.  Fortunately, the picture turned out clear and the dentist was able to see the depth of the post and the distance between her sinus. When I greeted the patient during her next visit for abutment, she said “thank you” and gave me the most heartwarming hug that I could ever ask for. Her expression of gratitude kindled my desire to serve more patients as an aspiring dentist. Knowing that my grandfather lacked oral health education and had limited dental care during his lifetime, I felt a sense of duty to help those who lack access to dental care . I helped serve the underprivileged by volunteering at the California Dental Association Free Clinic. In particular, I remember a forty-year old Hispanic immigrant named Julio, who was also a low-income immigrant and a father of four. Majority of his teeth was decayed and in need of urgent restoration. After talking to him, I learned that his condition was the result of a lack of access to quality dental care. Due to financial constraints, he could not afford to visit a dentist for a long time. He was grateful that the Free Clinic had given him this opportunity to restore his teeth. Talking to Julio was eye opening, as it inspired me to reach out to the disadvantaged population and educate them about oral health. One day, I wish to provide equitable access to dental care to all. After my grandfather’s death, I wrote a letter to him that ended with this passage: “Thank you, Grandpa, for helping me find my passion and for making me realize the power that genuine smiles can bring. Although you are no longer with us, your wisdom continues to motivate me to spread beautiful smiles and to improve the lives of others. As a tribute to you, I am ready to dedicate myself to the career of dentistry.”

🎓 GradGPT Score: 89/100 🌟

Great personal statement with room for improvement in structure

The essay tells the author's journey well but needs better structure and flow. Key areas for improvement are the transitions between discussing the grandfather's impact, the author's experiences as a dental assistant, and Julio's story. Also, cutting down on wordiness, avoiding repetition, and breaking up long sentences will make it clearer and more engaging.

Writing a personal statement for dental schools

Is what I’m writing too personal or not personal enough? Should I be writing more about teeth?  How do I shorten my personal statement without omitting important details? Am I even answering the prompt!?

Writing a personal statement can be an intimidating step in the application process for dental school. I remember reading dozens of example essays online trying to find the “perfect one” that would inspire me and guide my writing so that I would end up with a personal statement that could sum up my entire personality and life goals in just 4,500 characters. The reality is that trying to display who you are and the experiences that make you who you are in one page can be daunting and challenging. But is not impossible! Passion is something that can be detected through writing, so make sure to write about something that you are passionate about and it will be evident to the reader. A common misconception is that your dental school personal statement should be a list of dental experiences or how much you know about dentistry. Although you should be answering the question “why dentistry," the main objective is to paint a picture of who you are and what led you to pursue this career. So, where do  you start? 

Here are 3 tips on writing a personal statement that will make you stand out:

1. always keep the prompt in mind.

The personal statement prompt for dental admission usually doesn’t change and is posted on the ADEA website as the following:

“Your personal statement is a one-page essay (not to exceed 4,500 characters, including spaces, carriages, numbers, letters, etc.) that gives dental schools a clear picture of who you are and, most importantly, why you want to pursue a career in dentistry.”

Make sure that every sentence- every word- you write serves the purpose of answering the question above. If you find yourself writing about something that you feel doesn’t answer the prompt in one way or another, then it doesn’t belong in your PS. The allotted characters are concise and don’t allow for fluff or fillers. Once you have understood the prompt and the message you want to get across to admissions, then picking your words and what you want to share is made easier. 

2. It is okay to be vulnerable

If there is a life changing moment that you believe ties in to why you are pursuing dentistry, then don’t feel shy to write about it. We all have vulnerable moments, and you might be on the fence on whether to include those moments or not. My advice is to go for it! These moments give the reader a chance to get to know you outside of an academic context. In a pile of 1,000s of essays, you want the reader to connect with you, stories of vulnerability help make that connection.

3. If you talk about an adverse event, make sure to write an ending 

Many applicants do a great job at setting the scene to their stories but forget to write the ending! Let’s say, for example, that I write about the time I worked at a bakery (I wish!) and had many complex orders that needed to be done by the end of the day. I write about how difficult the task was and how impossible it first seemed. Then, I write that I was able to finish everything up and felt good about it. There are many things missing that highlight the significance of why I am writing this story. If you write about a certain experience in a story format, it should answer some of these questions:

• What have I learned from this experience and how can I implement it to answering the prompt?
• What skills (leadership) traits did I gain from this experience?
• In adverse times, what/ who do I find myself turning to? And why?
• What did I learn about myself through this experience?

By adding dimension and reflection to your stories, the reader will have a better understanding of who you are and how you react to difficult situations. Remember, this point circles back to tip #1: always keep the prompt in mind. By showing growth through your experiences, you demonstrate the resilience that you have that is needed to get through dental school!

Hoda is a dental student at Harvard School of Dental Medicine. She previously earned a BS in Biological Sciences with minors in Chemistry and Psychology at the University of Illinois in Chicago, graduating summa cum laude.

Related Content

How to Answer the "Why This Dental School?" Application Question

Learn how to craft a compelling response to the common dental school application question, "Why this dental school?" Our article provides expert tips and strategies to help you stand out and impress admissions committees.

Posted May 19, 2023

Table of Contents

Applying to dental schools can be an exciting but nerve-wracking process, especially when you're faced with the question, "Why This Dental School?" This question, which is often part of the application process, requires careful consideration and a well-crafted answer. In this article, we'll offer some tips on how to answer the "Why This Dental School?" question in a way that showcases your knowledge, experience, and passion for dentistry.

Understanding the Importance of the "Why This Dental School?" Question

The "Why This Dental School?" question holds a lot of weight in the admissions process. Admissions committees use this question to determine whether or not you've done your research on the dental school, and if you're truly committed to the program. Your answer to this question gives them insight into your motivation for studying dentistry, and how well you'd fit within their institution. Therefore, it's essential to take the time to craft a thoughtful and well-researched response.

When answering the "Why This Dental School?" question, it's important to not only focus on the school's reputation and academic programs, but also on the school's values and culture. Admissions committees want to see that you align with the school's mission and vision, and that you'll be an active and engaged member of the community. Research the school's extracurricular activities, volunteer opportunities, and any unique programs they offer. This will not only help you answer the question, but also give you a better understanding of whether or not the school is the right fit for you.

Researching the Dental School Before Answering the Question

Before you can answer the "Why This Dental School?" question, you need to do your research on the institution. Start by looking at the dental school's website and learning about their mission, values, and programs. Understand what sets this dental school apart from others, and what their areas of expertise are. Make note of any faculty members or alumni that have particularly caught your attention, and why. Additionally, try to reach out to current dental students or alumni to get firsthand insight into the dental school's programs and culture.

Another important aspect to consider when researching a dental school is their clinical experience opportunities. Look into the types of clinics and facilities that the school has partnerships with, and what kind of hands-on experience you can expect to gain as a student. It's also important to consider the location of the school and the surrounding community, as this can impact the types of patients and cases you will encounter during your clinical rotations. By thoroughly researching the dental school, you can confidently answer the "Why This Dental School?" question and demonstrate your genuine interest in the institution.

Highlighting Unique Features of the Dental School in Your Answer

Your answer to the "Why This Dental School?" question should showcase why the institution is unique and why it stood out to you. Consider highlighting their innovative curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, or cutting-edge research programs. Draw connections between the dental school's unique features and your personal goals, experiences, or values.

One unique feature of this dental school that stood out to me is their emphasis on community outreach. I was impressed to learn about their partnerships with local clinics and organizations to provide dental care to underserved populations. As someone who values giving back to the community, this aligns with my personal values and goals as a future dentist.

Additionally, the dental school's commitment to diversity and inclusion is another aspect that caught my attention. I appreciate their efforts to create a welcoming and supportive environment for students from all backgrounds. As a member of a diverse community myself, I believe that a diverse learning environment fosters a more enriching educational experience for everyone.

Tailoring Your Answer to the Dental School's Mission and Values

The dental school's mission and values are critical components of their identity. Therefore, it's important to tailor your answer to reflect how your personal values and goals align with those of the dental school. Make sure to speak to how your experiences and interests align with the institution's mission statement and core values, and how you plan to contribute to their community.

One way to research the dental school's mission and values is to visit their website and read through their mission statement and core values. You can also look for any specific programs or initiatives that the school is known for, and mention how those align with your own interests and goals.

Additionally, it's important to show that you have a clear understanding of the dental profession and the role of a dentist. You can do this by discussing any relevant experiences you have had, such as shadowing a dentist or volunteering at a dental clinic. This will demonstrate your commitment to the field and your understanding of the importance of the dental school's mission and values.

Emphasizing Your Fit with the Dental School's Culture and Community

Culture and community are crucial aspects of a dental school's environment. In your answer, try to emphasize how your background, experiences, and interests enable you to fit seamlessly into the dental school's culture and community. Highlight any involvement you've had in community service or leadership positions, and how they've prepared you to contribute positively to the dental school community.

Demonstrating Your Knowledge of the Dental School's Curriculum and Programs

Another crucial component of demonstrating your fit with a dental school is showcasing your knowledge of their curriculum and programs. Make sure to do your research and determine how the dental school's programs will help you achieve your career and educational goals. Speak to specific classes, research opportunities, or student organizations that caught your interest, and explain how they align with your personal goals.

Explaining How the Dental School Will Help You Achieve Your Career Goals

The "Why This Dental School?" question is an opportunity for you to explain how the institution will help you achieve your career aspirations. In your answer, make sure to talk about how the dental school's programs, reputation, or alumni network will help you achieve your long-term career goals. Be specific and use concrete examples to demonstrate how the dental school will help you launch your dream career in dentistry.

Providing Specific Examples of Why You're Interested in the Dental School

Providing specific examples of why you're interested in a particular dental school can set you apart from other applicants. Consider talking about any specific experiences you've had that led you to pursue a career in dentistry and how those experiences align with the dental school's philosophy. Talk about any connections you've made with alumni or faculty members, and how those connections inspire you to pursue your dental education at that particular institution.

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Answering the "Why This Dental School?" Question

When answering the "Why This Dental School?" question, it's essential to avoid common mistakes that other applicants may make. Avoid generic answers and instead focus on specific details that set the institution apart. Additionally, make sure that your answer is a genuine reflection of your interests and values, and not something you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Finally, proofread your answer carefully for spelling or grammar errors and make sure that your answer is clear and concise.

Crafting a Compelling Introduction for Your Answer

Your answer to the "Why This Dental School?" question should begin with a compelling introduction that catches the admissions committee's attention. Consider starting with an anecdote or a personal story that illustrates your passion for dentistry. Make sure that your introduction sets the tone for the rest of your answer and effectively showcases why you're a perfect fit for the dental school.

Structuring Your Answer to Address All Aspects of the Question

When crafting your answer to the "Why This Dental School?" question, structure it in a way that addresses all aspects of the question. Start by addressing why you're drawn to the dental school, followed by how you fit into their culture and community. Make sure to discuss the dental school's programs and curriculum, and how those align with your personal goals. Finally, explain how the institution will help you achieve your career aspirations.

Making Sure Your Answer is Genuine and Authentic

Avoid the temptation to write an answer that you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Instead, focus on crafting an answer that is a genuine reflection of your interests, experiences, and values. Be authentic and true to yourself, and make sure that your answer effectively showcases why you're a perfect fit for the dental school.

Proofreading and Editing Your Answer for Clarity and Professionalism

Finally, make sure that your answer is polished, professional, and error-free. Proofread your answer carefully for spelling and grammar mistakes. Additionally, make sure that your answer is clear, concise, and easy to read. Consider asking a friend, mentor, or teacher to review your answer and provide constructive feedback.

Conclusion: The Importance of Nailing the "Why This Dental School?" Question

The "Why This Dental School?" question is an essential part of the dental school application process. It provides admissions committees with insight into your motivation, passion, and knowledge of the institution. By taking the time to research the dental school, crafting a thoughtful answer, and polishing your response, you can stand out from other applicants and successfully demonstrate why you're a perfect fit for the dental school of your dreams.

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