ASDO 5100 - Clinical Dentistry 1A

This module focuses on developing essential clinical practice skills for dental students.Students will learn and demonstrate proficiency in key areas, including proper infection control, aseptic operative procedures (setup and breakdown), applying OSHA and HIPAA protocols, and integrating ergonomic principles for safe and efficient clinical practice, especially within four-handed dentistry. Furthermore, the course covers patient
assessment (vitals and medical history documentation using SOAP notes), ergonomics, and assisting.  Students will be introduced to the rationale and application of ergonomic
principles related to performing restorative dentistry when using dental auxiliaries. Students will learn the basic principles of four-handed dentistry and apply that learning in the clinical setting.There will be classroom and preclinical activity focused on strategies for maximizing the abilities of dental auxiliaries so as to provide a safe and productive clinical setting. Legal and ethical considerations of dental auxiliary training, employment, and management will also be discussed. Students will complete the training in Radiology technique.

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 I. (Dental Anatomy and Dental Materials): This module establishes the essential skills for clinical practice, emphasizing professionalism, ethics, and ergonomic principles necessary for long-term success. The curriculum comprehensively covers dental anatomy and biology, focusing on the composition of enamel, dentin, and pulp, and the basis of pulpal pain. A primary focus is on caries management, including the application of classification systems (G.V. Black, ICDAS), understanding the process of demineralization, and developing individualized preventive treatment plans using fluoride and sealants. Finally, students will learn diagnosis, treatment planning (SOAP format), armamentarium, and the principles of restorative procedures using amalgam and composite, with a strong practical component to develop psychomotor skills for Class I and Class II preparations and restorations.

Occlusion: This module provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles of dental occlusion and mandibular function. Students will learn to identify and define key occlusal terminology, including the characteristics of an ideal occlusal relationship, and to understand the intricate relationships among condylar guidance, anterior guidance, and tooth morphology. A core focus is the analysis of mandibular movements, including the ability to draw and label Posselt’s envelope and to differentiate among various occlusal schemes (Canine Protected, Bilateral Balanced, and Mutually Protected). Furthermore, the course covers the detailed anatomy and functional roles of centric and non-centric cusps, the primary muscles of mastication, and the implications of occlusal prematurities and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, while also incorporating practical exercises in waxing occlusal surfaces.

Specialties - Radiology I: This module will describe the principles of radiographic image acquisition for intraoral and panoramic x-ray modalities, radiobiology, radiation safety, recognition of radiographic anatomy, and interpretation of radiographic pathoses.