17 Dental Sterilization Technician Interview Questions and Answers

Dental Sterilization Technicians are responsible for the maintenance and operation of dental equipment and instruments. They also sterilize and disinfect all materials used during dental procedures.

If you’re looking for a job as a Dental Sterilization Technician, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions during your interview. These questions will assess your skills, experience, and qualifications. They will also give you an opportunity to show your knowledge of the role and the dental industry.

In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of the most common Dental Sterilization Technician interview questions and answers. Use these questions and answers to prepare for your interview and increase your chances of getting hired.

Are you familiar with the proper methods for cleaning, disinfecting and sterilizing dental instruments?

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your knowledge of proper sterilization procedures. Use your answer to highlight your understanding of the steps involved in cleaning, disinfecting and sterilizing dental instruments.

Example: “I have worked as a dental sterilization technician for five years now, so I am very familiar with the process of cleaning, disinfecting and sterilizing dental instruments. In my previous position, I was responsible for ensuring that all instruments were properly cleaned before being placed into the autoclave. Afterward, I would place them into an ethylene oxide gas chamber where they would be exposed to high levels of radiation. Finally, I would remove the instruments from the chamber and store them until they were needed.”

What are the most common dental instruments you need to sterilize?

This question can help the interviewer determine your knowledge of dental instruments and how you might fit into their team. Use examples from your experience to highlight your skills, such as:

Example: “In my last position, I sterilized a variety of dental instruments including drills, files, scalers, curettes, chisels, rasps, burrs, elevators, hooks, probes, scrapers, spatulas, tweezers and scissors. Each instrument has its own specific requirements for sterilization, so I always make sure to read through each manufacturer’s instructions before starting any process.”

How do you determine the proper sterilization time for different dental instruments?

This question can help the interviewer assess your knowledge of sterilization procedures and how you apply them to ensure patient safety. Use examples from your experience in which you used your knowledge of sterilization time to complete a task successfully.

Example: “I use the manufacturer’s instructions for determining proper sterilization times, but I also consider other factors that may affect the process. For example, if an instrument is made of metal, it requires more heat than one made of plastic or rubber. If instruments are stored together, they should be sterilized at the same time so they don’t come into contact with each other after being sterilized.”

What is the proper protocol for handling and storing contaminated dental instruments?

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your knowledge of proper sterilization procedures. Use examples from your experience in handling and storing contaminated instruments to highlight your ability to follow protocol.

Example: “In my previous role, I was responsible for the storage of all contaminated dental instruments after each use. I would place them into a designated area until they were ready to be cleaned and sterilized. After cleaning, I would store the instruments back in their original location until it was time to use them again. This process helped me develop an organizational system that allowed me to quickly locate instruments when needed.”

Provide an example of a time you went above and beyond to help maintain a clean and safe dental office.

This question can help the interviewer get a better sense of your work ethic and willingness to go above and beyond for the benefit of the dental office. Use examples from previous jobs where you helped maintain a clean and safe environment, or explain how you would do so if this was something you had not yet done in your career.

Example: “In my last position as a dental sterilization technician, I noticed that one of our doctors was running low on supplies. Rather than waiting until the next day when we could order more supplies, I volunteered to take some time out of my evening to drive to the nearest supply store to purchase what they needed. This saved them an extra trip later in the week and allowed them to continue seeing patients without any delays.”

If you saw a colleague improperly cleaning or sterilizing dental instruments, how would you address the issue?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you would approach a colleague who is not following proper sterilization procedures. In your answer, try to emphasize the importance of adhering to safety protocols in the workplace.

Example: “If I saw a colleague improperly cleaning or sterilizing instruments, I would first make sure that they were aware of the correct procedure for handling these tools. If they still did not adhere to the protocol, I would speak with my supervisor so we could address the issue together. It’s important to ensure that all staff members are properly trained on the best practices for maintaining sterile conditions.”

What would you do if you noticed a colleague or patient had an open wound near the area they were having dental work done?

This question can help interviewers understand how you would react to a challenging situation and whether you have the ability to work well with others. In your answer, try to show that you are willing to speak up if you notice something concerning and that you value the safety of patients and colleagues.

Example: “If I noticed an open wound near where dental work was being performed, I would immediately alert my supervisor or dentist so they could take appropriate action. If it were during regular business hours, I would ask the patient if they wanted me to call their doctor for advice on what to do next. If it were after hours, I would contact emergency services and let them know we had a medical emergency.”

How well can you multitask in a fast-paced dental office environment?

When working as a dental sterilization technician, you’ll need to multitask in order to complete your work efficiently. Employers ask this question to make sure that you can handle the fast pace of their office environment and are able to prioritize tasks effectively. In your answer, explain how you have experience with multitasking and time management. Explain how you would use these skills to help you succeed in this role.

Example: “In my previous position, I was responsible for handling multiple sterilization procedures at once while also monitoring the progress of each procedure. This required me to be highly organized and efficient when prioritizing my tasks. For example, if one patient’s instruments were ready before another patient’s, I would begin sterilizing those first so they could be placed into the autoclave sooner. By being able to multitask and manage my time well, I was able to ensure all patients’ instruments were sterilized within the two-hour window.”

Do you have experience using dental software to input patient information and track appointments?

The interviewer may ask you this question to gauge your computer skills and how comfortable you are using software. If you have experience with dental software, share what programs you’ve used in the past and explain how they helped you complete your job duties. If you don’t have any experience with dental software, you can talk about other computer programs you’re familiar with and how you use them to help you perform your job duties.

Example: “I’ve worked as a dental sterilization technician for five years now, and I’ve always been responsible for inputting patient information into our office’s electronic medical record system. In my previous position, we used Dentrix, which is a program that allows me to enter all of the necessary information about each patient, including their name, address, insurance information and appointment details. The software also helps me track appointments so I know when patients need to come back for checkups.”

When performing your daily cleaning duties, what is the most important thing you do to maintain a clean and sanitary work environment?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your attention to detail and how you ensure the sterilization unit is clean at all times. Your answer should include specific steps you take to keep the work environment sanitary, including any tools or processes you use to help maintain a sterile environment.

Example: “I always make sure to wear gloves when handling anything that isn’t already in its proper place. I also wipe down surfaces with disinfectant wipes before and after each procedure. This helps me avoid cross-contamination between patients and ensures everything is properly cleaned and ready for the next patient.”

We want to be known for going above and beyond for our patients. How would you define going above and beyond in a dental setting?

This question is a great way to see how much the company values going above and beyond for patients. It’s also an opportunity to show your passion for helping others. When answering this question, think of a time you went above and beyond for a patient or group of patients.

Example: “Going above and beyond means making sure that every single patient leaves our office with a smile on their face. I once had a patient who was nervous about getting dental work done. I took extra care in explaining everything to them so they felt more comfortable. They left the office feeling better than when they arrived.”

Describe your experience working with dental materials and equipment.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience with sterilization procedures and the materials used in dental offices. Use your answer to highlight any specialized skills you have working with these materials and equipment, such as knowledge of how to use specific tools or machines.

Example: “I’ve worked with all types of dental materials and equipment during my time as a sterilization technician. I am familiar with the proper ways to clean and disinfect different instruments and devices, including handpieces, drills, X-ray machines and other common dental supplies. In my last position, I also learned how to work with new materials like composite resins and porcelain veneers.”

What makes you an ideal candidate for this job?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their dental sterilization team. Before your interview, make a list of all the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this role. Consider including any certifications or training you have in this field.

Example: “I am passionate about working with sterile equipment because I know it’s important to keep patients safe. In my previous position as a dental sterilization technician, I developed a system for tracking which tools were used on each patient. This helped me ensure that no one tool was being used on multiple patients without proper cleaning. My system also made it easier for other technicians to find the right tools when they needed them.”

Which dental procedures are you most looking forward to learning more about?

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your interest in continuing education. It also helps them understand what you’re most passionate about and how that might translate to your work as a dental sterilization technician.

Example: “I’m looking forward to learning more about all aspects of dental procedures, but I am especially interested in learning more about oral surgery. I’ve always been fascinated by the way doctors are able to perform such intricate procedures with precision. I think it would be interesting to learn more about the tools they use and how they apply those tools to their work.”

What do you think is the most important aspect of being a dental sterilization technician?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you understand what it takes to be successful in this role. Your answer should include a few of the most important skills and abilities needed for success as a dental sterilization technician, such as attention to detail, communication skills and technical knowledge.

Example: “I think the most important aspect of being a dental sterilization technician is having excellent attention to detail. This skill is essential because I need to make sure that all instruments are properly cleaned and sanitized before they’re placed into storage or used on patients. Another important skill is communication, which helps me work effectively with my team members and communicate any concerns I have about a procedure.”

How often do you perform routine cleaning and maintenance on your personal dental equipment?

This question can help the interviewer determine how much experience you have with dental equipment and procedures. It can also show them your commitment to personal hygiene and safety. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention any specific steps you take to keep your own dental tools clean and safe for use.

Example: “I am very committed to practicing good oral hygiene at home. I brush my teeth twice a day and floss once a day. I also make sure to replace my toothbrush every three months and my mouthwash every six months. In addition, I always sterilize my toothbrush after each use by rinsing it in hot water.”

There is a shortage of qualified dental professionals in the area. How would you convince friends and family to become patients at your clinic?

This question is a great way to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to persuade others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention the benefits of dental care in general or how you personally helped someone you know find a dentist they love.

Example: “I have several friends who are looking for a new dentist because their current one doesn’t offer evening hours. I would tell them about my clinic’s extended hours and friendly staff so that they could get all of their dental needs met at once.”