Calculus
Calculus, also known as tartar, is a hardened form of dental plaque that builds up on teeth. When hiring in dental professions, this term refers to the cleaning and removal of this substance from patients' teeth. It's a key concept in dental hygiene and dentistry, as its proper removal requires specific skills and tools. When you see this term in resumes, it typically relates to a dental professional's experience in cleaning teeth and maintaining oral health. This is different from the mathematical subject of the same name - in dental contexts, it always refers to dental deposits.
Examples in Resumes
Performed thorough removal of calculus using ultrasonic and hand scaling techniques
Specialized in treating patients with heavy tartar and calculus buildup
Trained junior staff in proper dental calculus removal procedures
Typical job title: "Dental Hygienists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Dental Hygienists
Professional Organizations
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle patients with extensive calculus buildup who are resistant to treatment?
Expected Answer: Should discuss patient education techniques, communication skills, and various treatment approaches for difficult cases, plus mention experience training others in these situations.
Q: What methods do you use to prevent patient discomfort during calculus removal?
Expected Answer: Should explain various pain management techniques, patient positioning, and tool selection based on patient sensitivity and comfort levels.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What tools and techniques do you prefer for removing heavy calculus?
Expected Answer: Should describe different scaling instruments, ultrasonic devices, and when to use each method based on calculus location and severity.
Q: How do you identify and handle sub-gingival calculus?
Expected Answer: Should explain detection methods, proper tool selection, and techniques for removing calculus below the gum line safely.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the difference between supragingival and subgingival calculus?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that supragingival calculus is visible above the gum line, while subgingival is below, and basic approaches to cleaning each.
Q: What safety precautions do you take when removing calculus?
Expected Answer: Should mention personal protective equipment, proper positioning, infection control procedures, and basic tool handling safety.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic calculus removal techniques
- Use of hand scaling instruments
- Patient education on oral hygiene
- Basic documentation of treatments
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced scaling techniques
- Management of difficult cases
- Use of various dental technologies
- Patient care planning
Senior (5+ years)
- Treatment of complex cases
- Training and mentoring others
- Advanced patient management
- Clinical team leadership
Red Flags to Watch For
- No mention of proper scaling techniques
- Lack of knowledge about infection control
- No experience with modern dental equipment
- Poor understanding of patient comfort management
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
The Cryptic Secrets of Data-Driven HR: Metrics that Actually Matter (and Some That Might Make You Laugh)
Recruitment Metrics That Matter in 2025: Moving Beyond Time-to-Hire
Hiring Java Developers in 2024
