What to Say at a Dental Receptionist's Interview

by Ruth Mayhew

As the face of a dental office, the receptionist's role is critical because she's the first person patients see. In addition to administrative duties, the receptionist may be required to ease the fears of children and adult patients with dental anxiety and nervousness. When you interview for a dental receptionist position, exhibit a pleasant demeanor, volunteer information about your previous work in a health care setting and dress professionally to increase your chances for success.


Tell the interviewer about your training or education, whether it's related to dental office procedures, medical terminology or basic administrative duties. Many dental office receptionists consider becoming dental hygienists -- if that's your interest, mention it to the recruiter. The job could accommodate your interest in the field or expose you to dental procedures that could benefit future training. However, don't ask for that in your interview because it's premature; simply express your interest.

Work History

When you describe your work history, focus on jobs that required you to interact with patients or customers, answer telephone lines and resolve conflicts or calm difficult people. Dental receptionists have extensive patient contact. Emphasize your experience in dealing with a wide spectrum of people. For example, say, "I have limited experience working in a medical office; however, I developed effective customer service skills while working at ABC Retail, where I served the needs of a variety of customers."


Describe your skills related to the job duties. Detail your bookkeeping skills, because you may be responsible for reconciling patient accounts. If you have expertise in maintaining dental or medical equipment and supplies, stress that fact. If your experience related to inventory isn't tied to dental office procedures, mention transferable skills. Communication skills are important, as you must explain dental procedures to patients, answer questions from suppliers and interact frequently with dental office staff.

Job Knowledge

Dental receptionists must be familiar with privacy act requirements, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. Assure the interviewer that you can maintain confidential patient records and that you understand the importance of patient confidentiality. Give concrete examples of how you can adhere to privacy laws, as in concealing patient records when you leave your desk or speaking to dental patients in a manner that doesn't breach their right to confidentiality while they're in a waiting room with other patients.


When the interviewer asks if you have questions about the job, never pass up the opportunity to learn more about the job and the dental practice. For example, ask, "What is the approximate number of patients?" "Are the patients in different age groups, or is there one predominant group I can anticipate greeting?" and "What process does the office use for insurance filing or automated patient records?"

Dental Care

Dental office professionals are expected to practice good hygiene, regardless of whether they are dentists, hygienists or administrative employees. Give the interviewer your perspective on the importance of dental care. This will demonstrate that you have a sincere interest in the field and that you aren't simply looking for a paycheck.

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