

Plymouth Dentistry Interview Questions
This article was updated in September 2024 with the latest information, and we will continue to regularly update it!
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ToggleSay hello to the #1 best UK university for dentistry – University of Plymouth! This university’s Dentistry programme provides students with diverse dental care experiences through a partnership with the Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise (PDSE), all while working in some of the UK’s most beautiful locations: Devon, Truro, Cornwall, and Exeter. They focus on their three core aims which are outstanding clinical education, strong social engagement, and world-class research, attracting 400 applicants each year. If you’re among the eager applicants, this guide will provide you with the latest updates for the 2025 application cycle, an expert insight into past Plymouth interview stations, the Plymouth interview day and tips for converting your Plymouth Dentistry interview into an offer!
For more general information about the Plymouth Dental School, check out this page: Plymouth Dentistry


2024/25 Plymouth Dentistry Interview in a Nutshell
What is the Plymouth Dentistry Interview style?
Plymouth Dentistry held all interviews for the 2024 entry via Zoom. The format for the 2025 application cycle has not yet been announced. Last year’s interviews used a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format. Each applicant went through five stations by four different interviewers. The process took about 55 minutes. Instead of testing medical or scientific knowledge, the MMI aims to assess your attitudes, outlook, and thought processes.
What are the Plymouth Dentistry MMI Dates?
The specific dates for the MMIs for Plymouth Dentistry in the 2025 application cycle have not yet been announced. For the 2024 application cycle, they were held last March. The exact date varies from year to year so it’s best to check Plymouth Dentistry’s official website or contact their admissions office directly.
What are the common topics covered at the Plymouth Dentistry Interview?
This university places great value on the following listed qualities, which align with NHS core values, and they expect you to demonstrate them during your interview:
- Communication skills
- Decision making
- Impact of illness
- Reflection and self-insight
- Motivation and commitment
- Integrity and inclusivity
- Resilience and adaptability
- Teamwork
At Medic Mind we’ve helped many students secure offers from Plymouth and other Dental schools. If you’re applying to Plymouth, we can do a high quality 1-1 mock with you with a Plymouth tutor and realistic stations uniquely for Plymouth.
List of Recent Plymouth Dentistry Interview Topics
Theme | Plymouth (Dentistry) Example Questions |
---|---|
Motivation for Dentistry | Commitment to the career |
Work Experience | Insight into the career from work experience |
Communication | Communicating in difficult scenarios (eg: angry or anxious patients) |
Personality & Skills | Demonstrating teamwork Self-reflection on strengths and weaknesses |
NHS Hot Topics | Role of technology in the future of dentistry |
University-specific | Knowledge of the course Reasons for wanting to study at Plymouth |
Other | Knowledge of the General Dental Council (GDC) |
What are the common topics covered at the Plymouth Dentistry Interview?
This university places great value on the following listed qualities, which align with NHS core values, and they expect you to demonstrate them during your interview:
- Communication skills
- Decision making
- Impact of illness
- Reflection and self-insight
- Motivation and commitment
- Integrity and inclusivity
- Resilience and adaptability
- Teamwork
Check out the official Plymouth School of Dental Sciences course page here, so that you know what to expect from this course: Official Page
Insider Guide: Plymouth Dentistry Interview Day
How does the Plymouth Interview day work?
I received our Zoom login information no later than 48 hours before the start time of our interview. I went through five stations by four different interviewers. The whole interview lasted for about an hour.
What do you have to wear for the Plymouth Dentistry Interview?
The dress code is as expected for any interview – smart. I adhered strictly to this standard, opting for formal attire rather than regretting later on. For virtual interviews, keep in mind white contrast and camera quality when choosing how to dress. I found it important to consider contrast and camera quality when selecting my outfit.I wore crisp blue clothing instead of white in front of a bright light source, which helped avoid disrupting the white balance and ensured a clear image.
Is any pre-reading required for the Plymouth Dentistry MMI?
Yes! While pre-reading wasn’t explicitly required for the Plymouth Dentistry MMI, preparing in advance was very helpful. I made sure to familiarise myself with the Plymouth Dentistry programme’s values, curriculum, and unique features to tailor my responses. Understanding NHS core values, such as communication, teamwork, and integrity, was also important, as the MMI aims to evaluate these qualities. Staying informed about current trends in dentistry and practising common MMI scenarios, along with reflecting on my personal experiences and strengths, really helped me perform well in the interview.
What are the Plymouth MMI interviewers like?
Plymouth assessors were friendly, though some appeared neutral in their expressions and language. I heard in advance that this neutrality is often used by interviewers to test how well candidates handle pressure and to ensure unbiased assessments. I did my best to not let their neutral demeanour unsettle me. I stayed calm and confident when responding to their questions.
Will the Plymouth MMI test science or medial topics?
No, they didn’t. The Plymouth MMI did not require any science and/or medical knowledge for the interview as they assessed my personal qualities. Looking back, the interview was designed to evaluate how I handle various scenarios related to dentistry, my attitude, my communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.
How long is the actual Plymouth interview?
The interview lasted around an hour.
What logistical preparations should applicants make?
For virtual interviews, ensure you have a quiet and well-lit space with a strong wifi connection and that your camera and microphone are working. Avoid sitting in front of bright lights or windows to prevent glare and make sure you won’t be disturbed. Ideally, set up your interview space prior to the day and practice in that setting a few times to ensure comfort and ease. If the university allows, it is helpful to have water to sip on throughout the interview.
How long does it take to hear back after the Plymouth interview?
I heard back in the middle of the 4th week after the interview. They informed us that it can take a few weeks to months to hear back.

Top Tips for the Plymouth Dentistry Interview
- Do as many mock interviews as you can! The interviews can be intimidating due to the pressure and setting, rather than the questions themselves. Practising frequently will build your confidence, helping you speak comfortably for longer periods and reflect effectively. Sign up to our Dentistry mock MMI circuit here: Dentistry mock MMI
- Familiarise yourself with the NHS constitution & values-based recruitment. This is an integral part of the Plymouth Dentistry interview and a great place to set yourself apart from other candidates. Learn to link your skills to this document and reflect on your own experiences to find examples of how you’ve demonstrated these important qualities.
- Strengthen your problem-solving and analytical skills. The Plymouth interview focuses on these abilities, particularly in relation to dental care and the future of dentistry. Consider the future of dentistry and the ways in which it can be further improved.
- Practise non-verbal communication techniques, such as maintaining appropriate eye contact and using effective body language. These skills can enhance your confidence and leave a positive impression on the interviewer. However, this may not come naturally so we advise you to record yourself on camera and review the footage to evaluate and improve both your verbal and non-verbal communication.


Frequently Asked Question
→How should I prepare for the Plymouth Dentistry interview?
To prepare for the Plymouth Dentistry interview, you should research the course and the university, review your personal statement, and practise answering common interview questions. Also, prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the course and university. Make sure these questions aren’t easily answered by looking at their website.
→Who are the interviewers?
The Plymouth Dentistry interviewers come from different backgrounds, including clinicians, academics, medical students, healthcare professionals, and members of the public.
→How will the interviewers score us? Will we know our score?
Interviews are scored using a numerical scale and a red flag section. The numerical score reflects how well you demonstrate key attributes in your responses. The red flag section can only be marked “Yes or No” and reflects whether the applicant said something or behaved in a way that is unsuitable for the programme. Both scores are used to determine the interview outcome. The university will only provide the overall score you achieved and the threshold score needed for an offer.
→Does Plymouth consider work experience or personal statement when selecting to qualify for an interview?
No, work experience is not considered when selecting candidates for an interview. The university bases their decision on relevant academic qualifications. The Admissions Advisory Panel reviews factors such as the number of available spots, the volume of applications, and academic profiles. The advertised entry requirements for each of their courses are not necessarily the threshold for interview.
→How can I demonstrate my interest in dentistry during the Plymouth Dentistry interview?
To demonstrate your interest in dentistry during the Plymouth Dentistry interview, you can talk about any relevant experience you have, such as shadowing a dentist or volunteering at a dental clinic. You can also discuss any relevant academic work or research you have done in the field.
→Can I appeal the decision of the Plymouth Dentistry interview?
Yes, you can appeal the decision if you think it was unfair or if there were procedural errors. Contact the university’s admissions office for details on how to proceed with an appeal.






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