Dentistry MMI Interviews: The Complete Guide

You should expect an MMI to have between five and ten different stations, with each station normally taking between 5 to 7 minutes. There may be a rest station, or two rest stations, in between the other stations. The most common MMI stations are:

Role Plays – you should expect at least one role play. Whilst it may seem unnatural for many to ‘act out’ a scene, you will be expected to take part in these throughout your dental training. Try to forget about ‘acting’ and treat the situation as if it is real. Most role plays will involve an ethical or empathic component. You need to show that you are caring and professional. Begin each role play with an open question, listen carefully, and check that they are following throughout. Ensure that you have covered everything on their mind, and work with them to formulate a plan as needed. Practice with unfamiliar people beforehand, not just close friends or family members.
 
Ethics – Read up on the General Dental Council, and their standards and guidance. Make sure to approach ethical questions from a balanced standpoint, and explore both sides of the argument without bias. It is also essential to be familiar with the four core principles of medical ethics.

Manual Dexterity – Some universities will ask for evidence of your ability here. You may wish to bring in an example of something that you have made. If not, think about how you have evidenced your ability. Examples might be a high grade at a musical instrument, a sculpture course, or leading a sewing & crocheting group. Certain universities will have practical stations for this component, in which you will be required to complete a simple task whilst under pressure. These tasks will be achievable – the key is to maintain your composure and work through them as calmly and steadily as possible. Examples may be threading a needle, or placing discs so that they show a particular colour.

Problem Solving – Alongside ‘textbook’ academic knowledge you must be able to quickly face academic problems and solve them. You may therefore receive a graph to interpret and answer questions on, a verbal or mathematical puzzle, or a problem-solving question taken from ‘traditional’ interviews, in which you must show a readiness to approach an issue with a clear and logical process. In these situations, the answer is often not as important as the manner in which you work toward it.

Motivation for Dentistry – You will be expected to show a clear and reasoned insight into the profession and your desire to work in it. You must be able to explain why you are interested in Dentistry over Medicine or another field, how your work experience and reflections have informed you, and how your personality fits the career.

Personal Statement – A common station is a dive into the personal statement. You must know the personal statement inside-out, and be able to comment on all aspects of it. Be sure to research any technical or scientific terms that you use, or dental technologies or treatments.

Professionalism – Similarly to an Ethics station, make sure that your responses are guided by the General Dental Council’s relevant guidance. Always give the most correct or professional response possible, and try to show empathy and understanding in your rationale.

Empathy – Be aware of the term empathy, of the difference between empathy and sympathy, and why empathy is so important in dentistry. Have examples of times that you have shown empathy ready, and ensure that you have relevant reflections to accompany them.