What are the similarities and differences between a medical doctor and a dentist?

The interviewer is obviously looking for you to recognise the similarities and differences between a medical doctor and a dentist, but they also want you to communicate why you have chosen dentistry over medicine whilst respecting the profession of medicine. So, here's what you're going to do:

Mention the similarities between a doctor and a dentist:

• They both aim to help people regarding their health
• They are both knowledgeable in the scientific field
• They both are regulated professions and must meet certain standards at all times
• Both professions require good teamworking, communication and empathy skills
• Lifelong learning is required for professions

Mention the differences between a doctor and a dentist:

• Dentists work primarily in the mouth, head and neck region
• Dentists work with their hands more than a doctor would
• Dentistry involves a preventative approach to care
• Dentists see the same patients more often which builds rapport

Appreciate the medical profession, but emphasise why you want to do dentistry:

Doctors are crucial members of the healthcare system, so you don't want to undermine them. Acknowledge that doctors come with their own unique skill sets, but you want to do dentistry instead. Use the differences mentioned to illustrate how these aspects of dentistry are what intrigues you about the field, which is why you want to pursue dentistry and not medicine.

Talk about your work experience:

You can also add some examples of how you have seen dentists and doctors work differently to provide care to patients. For example, you can mention how the dentist approached a patient that was returning to the practise, and how the rapport building is something you want to develop yourself.