ASDO 5100 - Clinical Dentistry 1A

15 credit hours

Introduction to Clinic: This module is intended to be a “break” from the intense biomedical science modules during that semester and to introduce principles and concepts in dentistry fundamental to the understanding of the pre-clinical curriculum. Topics of instruction in this module include Introduction to Dental Anatomy and Terminology, History of Dentistry, Introduction to Research and Evidence Based Dentistry, Public Health, Ethics, Dental Business, Radiology, Behavioral Science, Introduction to Preventive Dentistry, and Simulation Clinic exercises to introduce the manual dexterity and basic operative skills that will be necessary for the pre-clinical courses.

Infection Control: Covers the topic of the use of appropriate infection control precautions to protect against transmission of blood-borne and other occupational microbial pathogens utilizing evidence-based infection control and safety policies and practices.

Operative Dentistry (Dental Anatomy and Dental Materials): This module will introduce the students to the basic theory and techniques of operative dentistry. Students will have the opportunity to combine the theoretical understanding and integration of clinical skills with medical science knowledge, develop technical skills in operative dentistry through the learning of basic intracoronal preparation and restorations in single teeth, investigate evolving technology, material science, and research, perform self-assessments, and develop a their professional conduct, attitude and appearance. The module will provide students the opportunity to apply clinical and professional skills in a simulated practice environment. Includes dental anatomy, which discusses the morphology and nomenclature of individual teeth of the primary and permanent dentition, as well as eruption patterns. External and internal crown and root morphology of both the permanent and primary dentitions will be presented. Dental Materials is also part of this module and will introduce students to fundamental principles and concepts of dental materials science. The four categories of materials, ceramics, composites, metals and polymers, will be discussed by giving examples of commonly used dental materials. Each material will be evaluated in terms of their molecular structure and physical, mechanical, chemical and biological properties. These materials will subsequently be reviewed from a practical practicing viewpoint as they are later presented in specific clinical-type disciplines.

Occlusion and Articulation: Students are presented with descriptions and illustrations of mandibular positions and movements related to guidance by the teeth and joints and to neuromuscular mechanisms underlying mastication and swallowing. Static contacts and pathways from these contacts are presented in lecture and in laboratory exercises. Periodontal response to occlusal forces, both normal and pathologic, are related to cusp-fossa excursions and to occlusal schemes.

Specialties - Periodontics: This course focuses on the application of basic sciences to clinical problems in periodontology. Students will be able to focus on the classification of periodontal diseases, diagnosis and management of periodontal diseases and non-surgical and surgical treatment. Emphasis will be placed on etiology, pathogenesis, treatment modalities and therapeutic and preventive periodontics in a clinical setting. Students will be able to support their treatment decisions with evidence-based literature.