Academic Programs

Curriculum for the Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree

The successful completion of the dental curriculum leads to the Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree. The curriculum is divided over four academic years. The academic year begins in late August and ends in late July, with a vacation period in August. Graduation is in May.

The timing and sequence of courses are designed to develop a biomedical and preclinical knowledge base prior to the start of clinical patient care. The clinical periods provide the time necessary to develop the applied knowledge and technical skills essential for a person to enter the practice of general dentistry. The curriculum and course content are constantly being reviewed and improved to present the most current information and trends in dentistry.

The curricular information is subject to change.

First Year: DS 1 Fall Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DBS 800	Infection Control and Safety	1	J. Molinari	molinaja@udmercy.edu	DBS 800
DBS 811	Gross Anatomy I	2	W. Forbes	forbeswc@udmercy.edu	DBS 811
DBS 813	General Histology	4	M. Kurpakus-Wheater	wheatemi@udmercy.edu	DBS 813
DBS 815	Biochemistry	3	M. Gleason	gleasomj@udmercy.edu	DBS 815
DRD 811	Dental Anatomy	2	J. Linger/ L. Abbott	abbottlj@udmercy.edu lingerjb@udmercy.edu	DRD 811
DRD 814	Principles of Dental Materials	1	W. Wagner	wagnerwc@udmercy.edu	DRD 814
DRD 815	Essentials of Clinical Practice	2.5	K. Hillenburg/ L. Abbott	hillenkl@udmercy.edu abbottlj@udmercy.edu	DRD 815
DRD 816	Introduction to Operative Dentistry	2	M. Tauil	tauilma@udmercy.edu	DRD 816
DSD 813	Professional Ethics Development I	2	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DSD 813
DZD 801	Course Evaluation	DEF	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	CPR	0	M. Buehner	buehnemj@udmercy.edu
	Total	19.5

DS 1 Winter Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DBS 812	Oral Histology	3	M. Kurpakus-Wheater	wheatemi@udmercy.edu	DBS 812
DBS 814	Gross Anatomy II	4	W. Forbes	forbeswc@udmercy.edu	DBS 814
DBS 818	Physiology I	4	M. O'Regan	oreganmh@udmercy.edu	DBS 818
DBS 820	Biochemistry/ Molecular Biology	3	M. Gleason	gleasomj@udmercy.edu	DBS 820
DPE 811	Periodontal Instrumentation I	2.5	K. Hillenburg/ C. Kuxhaus	hillenkl@udmercy.edu kuxhaucd@udmercy.edu	DPE 811
DRD 812	Dental Occlusion	2	J. Linger/ L. Abbott	abbottlj@udmercy.edu lingerjb@udmercy.edu	DRD 812
DRD 813	Amalgam Restorative Treatment Techniques	2	C. Stone	stonecr@udmercy.edu	DRD 813
DZD 801	Course Evaluation	DEF	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	Total	20.5

Second Year: DS 2 Summer Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DBS 801	Nutrition	3	M. Gleason	gleasomj@udmercy.edu	DBS 801
DBS 823	Physiology II	3	M. O'Regan	oreganmh@udmercy.edu	DBS 823
DBS 830	Introductory Microbiology and Immunology	2	V. Merchant	merchava@udmercy.edu	DBS 830
DOD 820	Growth and Development	1	R. Kulbersh	kulbersv@udmercy.edu	DOD 820
DOM 822	Radiology	3	J. Geist	geistjr@udmercy.edu	DOM 822
DPE 810	Periodontal Instrumentation II	2	K. Hillenburg/ C. Kuxhaus	hillenkl@udmercy.edu kuxhaucd@udmercy.edu	DPE 810
DSD 820	Professional Ethics Development II	1.5	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DSD 820
DSD 822	Psychological Aspects of Dentistry	1	S. Ceresnie/ K. Werth	ceresnst@udmercy.edu werthkj@udmercy.edu	DSD 822
DZD 801	Course Evaluation	DEF	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	Total	16.5

DS 2 Fall Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DBS 822	Pharmacology I	2	W. C. Foong	foongwc@udmercy.edu	DBS 822
DBS 825	Clinical Immunology and Microbiology	4	J. Molinari	molinaja@udmercy.edu	DBS 825
DCD 822	Fixed Partial Denture Treatment Techniques I	2	A. Fard	fardam@udmercy.edu	DCD 822
DCD 829	Complete Denture Treatment Techniques	3	W. Lim	limwc@udmercy.edu	DCD 829
DOD 821	Preclinical Orthodontics	2	P. Brown	brownpn@udmercy.edu	DOD 821
DOM 821	General Pathology	4	J. Geist	geistjr@udmercy.edu	DOM 821
DOM 825	Oral Diagnosis and Radiology	2	R. Geist	geistsh@udmercy.edu	DOM 825
DPE 820	Biological Basis To Oral Soft Tissue Disease	2	A. Neely	neelya@udmercy.edu	DPE 820
DPE 825	Advanced Periodontal Instrumentation	1	K. Hillenburg/ C. Kuxhaus	hillenkl@udmercy.edu kuxhaucd@udmercy.edu	DPE 825
DRD 825	Conservative Esthetic Treatment Techniques	2	C. Stone	stonecr@udmercy.edu	DRD 825
DZD 801	Course Evaluation	DEF	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	Total	24

DS 2 Winter Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DBS 827	Microbiology and Infectious Diseases	3	J. Molinari	molinaja@udmercy.edu	DBS 827
DCD 824	Fixed Partial Denture Treatment Techniques II	3	M. Linebaugh	linebaml@udmercy.edu	DCD 824
DCD 826	Removable Partial Denture Treatment Techniques	3	D. Gurun/ W. Lim	gurundi@udmercy.edu limwc@udmercy.edu	DCD 826
DEN 824	Preclinical Endodontics	3	J. Braud/ J. Bringas	braudjp@udmercy.edu bringjs@udmercy.edu	DEN 824
DOD 822	Orthodontics	2	B. Bayirli	bayrilib@udmercy.edu	DOD 822
DOM 826	Oral Pathology and Radiographic Interpretation Seminar	4	J. Geist	geistjr@udmercy.edu	DOM 826
DOM 828	Principles of Treatment Planning	2	A. ElGeneidy	elgeneak@udmercy.edu	DOM 828
DOS 822	Pain and Anxiety I	1	G. Jeffers	jefferge@udmercy.edu	DOS 822
DPD 830	Pediatric Dentistry I	1	G. Molinari/ S. Atwan	molinage@udmercy.edu atwansm@udmercy.edu	DPD 830
DPE 821	Periodontal Therapy I	1	L. Cabanilla/ L. Dobis	cabanill@udmercy.edu dobisll@udmercy.edu	DPE 821
DRD 829	Strategies for the Prevention of Oral Diseases	2	K. Hillenburg/ K. Werth	hillenkl@udmercy.edu werthkj@udmercy.edu	DRD 829
DZD 801	Course Evaluation	1	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	Total	26

Third Year: DS 3 Summer Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DBS 831	Pharmacology II	DEF	W. C. Foong	foongwc@udmercy.edu	DBS 831
DBS 832	Part I Board Review	0 (Pass/Fail)	M. O'Regan	oreganmh@udmercy.edu	DBS 832
DCD 841	Clinical Removable Prosthodontics	DEF	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 841
DCD 844	Clinical Fixed Prosthodontics	DEF	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 844
DCL 831	Clinical Responsibility	1	N. Kashani	kashanin@udmercy.edu	DCL 831
DEN 842	Clinical Endodontics	DEF	J. Braud	braudjp@udmercy.edu	DEN 842 (DS3) DEN 842 (DS4)
DOD 831	Clinical Orthodontics (Sem. & Assist)	DEF	R. Kulbersh	kulbersv@udmercy.edu	DOD 831
DOD 834	Orthodontic Seminar	1	R. Kulbersh	kulbersv@udmercy.edu	DOD 834
DOM 831	Clinical Oral Diagnosis	DEF	A. ElGeneidy	elgeneak@udmercy.edu	DOM 831
DOM 832	Clinical Radiology	DEF	J. Geist	geistjr@udmercy.edu	DOM 832
DOS 831	Clinical Oral Surgery	DEF	G. Jeffers	jefferge@udmercy.edu	DOS 831
DOS 834	Oral Surgery I	1	I. Riley		DOS 834
DPD 824	Pediatric Dentistry Preclinical	2	S. Atwan	atwansm@udmercy.edu	DPD 824
DPD 833	Pediatric Dentistry II	1	G. Molinari	molinage@udmercy.edu	DPD 833
DPE 824	Periodontal Therapy II	1	L. Cabanilla/ L. Dobis	cabanill@udmercy.edu dobisll@udmercy.edu	DPE 824
DPE 831	Clinical Periodontics	DEF	L. Cabanilla/ S. Kolhatkar	cabanill@udmercy.edu kolhatsh@udmercy.edu	DPE 831
DRD 831	Clinical Operative	DEF	C. Stone	stonecr@udmercy.edu	DRD 831
DZD 801	Course Evaluation	DEF	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	Total	7

DS 3 Fall Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DBS 831	Pharmacology II	4	W. C. Foong	foongwc@udmercy.ed	DBS 831
DCD 830	Developing Communication Skills	DEF	S. Ceresnie/ K. Werth	ceresnst@udmercy.edu werthkj@udmercy.edu	DCD 830
DCD 834	Removable Prosthodontics	1	M. Linebaugh/ B. Maxson	linebaml@udmercy.edu maxsonb@udmercy.edu	DCD 834
DCD 841	Clinical Removable Prosthodontics	DEF	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 841
DCD 844	Clinical Fixed Prosthodontics	DEF	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 844
DCL 832	Clinical Responsibility	1	N. Kashani	kashanin@udmercy.edu	DCL 832
DEN 842	Clinical Endodontics	DEF	J. Braud	braudjp@udmercy.edu	DEN 842
DOD 831	Clinical Orthodontics	DEF	R. Kulbersh	kulbersv@udmercy.edu	DOD 831
DOM 831	Clinical Oral Diagnosis	DEF	A. ElGeneidy	elgeneak@udmercy.edu	DOM 831
DOM 832	Clinical Radiology	DEF	J. Geist	geistjr@udmercy.edu	DOM 832
DOS 831	Clinical Oral Surgery	DEF	G. Jeffers	jefferge@udmercy.edu	DOS 831
DOS 832	Oral Surgery II	1	J. Lepczyk	lepczyjw@udmercy.edu	DOS 832
DOS 833	Pain and Anxiety II	1	G. Jeffers		DOS 833
DPD 831	Clinical Pediatrics	1	G. Molinari	molinage@udmercy.edu	DPD 831
DPD 834	Pediatric Dentistry III	1	G. Molinari	molinage@udmercy.edu	DPD 834
DPE 831	Clinical Periodontics	DEF	L. Cabanilla/ S. Kolhatkar	cabanill@udmercy.edu kolhatsh@udmercy.edu	DPE 831
DRD 831	Clinical Operative	DEF	C. Stone	stonecr@udmercy.edu	DRD 831
DZD 801	Course Evaluation	DEF	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	CPR	0	C. Sordyl	sordylcm@udmercy.edu
	Total	10

DS 3 Winter Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DCD 830	Developing Communication Skills	DEF	S. Ceresnie/ K. Werth	ceresnst@udmercy.edu werthkj@udmercy.edu	DCD 830
DCD 833	Fixed Partial Denture Treatment Planning	1	A. Fard	fardam@udmercy.edu	DCD 833
DCD 841	Clinical Removable Prosthodontics	DEF	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 841
DCD 844	Clinical Fixed Prosthodontics	DEF	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 844
DCL 833	Clinical Responsibility	1	N. Kashani	kashanin@udmercy.edu	DCL 833
DEN 842	Clinical Endodontics	DEF	J. Braud	braudjp@udmercy.edu	DEN 842
DOD 831	Clinical Orthodontics	1	R. Kulbersh	kulbersv@udmercy.edu	DOD 831
DOM 831	Clinical Oral Diagnosis	3	A. ElGeneidy	elgeneak@udmercy.edu	DOM 831
DOM 832	Clinical Radiology	1	J. Geist	geistjr@udmercy.edu	DOM 832
DOM 837	Oral Medicine I	2	R. Geist	geistsh@udmercy.edu	DOM 837
DOM 838	TMJ Pathology and Facial Pain	1	A. ElGeneidy	elgeneak@udmercy.edu	DOM 838
DOS 831	Clinical Oral Surgery	1	G. Jeffers	jefferge@udmercy.edu	DOS 831
DOS 836	Therapeutics	DEF	G. Jeffers	jefferge@udmercy.edu	DOS 836
DOS 839	Physical Assessment	2	G. Jeffers	jefferge@udmercy.edu	DOS 839
DPD 832	Clinical Pediatrics	2	G. Molinari	molinage@udmercy.edu	DPD 832
DPE 831	Clinical Periodontics	3	L. Cabanilla/ S. Kolhatkar	cabanill@udmercy.edu kolhatsh@udmercy.edu	DPE 831
DRD 831	Clinical Operative	3	C. Stone	stonecr@udmercy.edu	DRD 831
DSD 832	Community Dentistry I: Dental Care For Special Patients	1	C. Wyche	wychecj@udmercy.edu	DSD 832
DSD 833	Professional Ethics Development III	2	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DSD 833
DZD 801	Course Evaluation	DEF	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	Total	24

Fourth Year: DS 4 Summer Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DCD 841	Clinical Removable Prosthodontics	DEF	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 841
DCD 843	Oral and Maxillofacial Implants	1.5	A. Fard/ D. Gurun	fardam@udmercy.edu gurundi@udmercy.edu	DCD 843
DCD 844	Clinical Fixed Prosthodontics	DEF	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 844
DCL 841	Clinical Responsibility	1	M. Parise	parisema@udmercy.edu	DCL 841
DEN 841	Endodontics	1	J. Braud	braudjp@udmercy.edu	DEN 841
DEN 842	Clinical Endodontics	DEF	J. Braud	braudjp@udmercy.edu	DEN 842
DOM 841	Clinical Oral Diagnosis	DEF	A. ElGeneidy	elgeneak@udmercy.edu	DOM 841
DOM 842	Clinical Radiology	DEF	J. Geist	geistjr@udmercy.edu	DOM 842
DOM 843	Oral Medicine II	DEF	R. Geist	geistsh@udmercy.edu	DOM 843
DOS 843	Clinical Oral Surgery	DEF	G. Jeffers	jefferge@udmercy.edu	DOS 843
DPD 841	Clinical Pediatrics	DEF	S. Atwan	atwansm@udmercy.edu	DPD 841
DPE 841	Clinical Periodontics	DEF	K. Hillenburg/ J. Winkler	hillenkl@udmercy.edu winklejr@udmercy.edu	DPE 841
DRD 841	Clinical Operative	DEF	C. Stone	stonecr@udmercy.edu	DRD 841
DSD 840	Practice Management I	1	M. Aksu	aksumn@udmercy.edu	DSD 840
DSD 843	Community Dentistry II	1	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DSD 843
DZD 801	Course Evaluation	DEF	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	Total	7

DS 4 Fall Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DCD 841	Clinical Removable Prosthodontics	DEF	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 841
DCD 844	Clinical Fixed Prosthodontics	DEF	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 844
DCL 842	Clinical Responsibility	1	M. Parise	parisema@udmercy.edu	DCL 842
DEN 842	Clinical Endodontics	DEF	J. Braud	braudjp@udmercy.edu	DEN 842
DOM 841	Clinical Oral Diagnosis	DEF	A. ElGeneidy	elgeneak@udmercy.edu	DOM 841
DOM 842	Clinical Radiology	DEF	J. Geist	geistjr@udmercy.edu	DOM 842
DOM 843	Oral Medicine II	2	R. Geist	geistsh@udmercy.edu	DOM 843
DOS 843	Clinical Oral Surgery	DEF	G. Jeffers	jefferge@udmercy.edu	DOS 843
DPD 841	Clinical Pediatrics	DEF	S. Atwan	atwansm@udmercy.edu	DPD 841
DPE 841	Clinical Periodontics	DEF	K. Hillenburg/ J. Winkler	hillenkl@udmercy.edu winklejr@udmercy.edu	DPE 841
DPE 842	Interdisciplinary Issues in Periodontics	1.5	L. Cabanilla	cabanill@udmercy.edu	DPE 842
DRD 841	Clinical Operative	DEF	C. Stone	stonecr@udmercy.edu	DRD 841
DSD 801	Part II Board Review	0 (Pass/Fail)	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DSD 801
DSD 841	Practice Management II	1.5	M. Aksu	aksumn@udmercy.edu	DSD 841
DZD 801	Course Evaluation	DEF	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	Total	6

DS 4 Winter Term

Course #	Course	Credits	Faculty	Email	Syllabus
DCD 841	Clinical Removable Prosthodontics	5	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 841
DCD 844	Clinical Fixed Prosthodontics	4	B. Maxson/ C. Stone	maxsonb@udmercy.edu stonecr@udmercy.edu	DCD 844
DCL 843	Clinical Responsibility	1	M. Parise	parisema@udmercy.edu	DCL 843
DEN 842	Clinical Endodontics	4	J. Braud	braudjp@udmercy.edu	DEN 842
DOM 841	Clinical Oral Diagnosis	1	A. ElGeneidy	elgeneak@udmercy.edu	DOM 841
DOM 842	Clinical Radiology	1	J. Geist	geistjr@udmercy.edu	DOM 842
DOS 841	Topics in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery	1.5	T. Schmakel	schmaktr@udmercy.edu	DOS 841
DOS 843	Clinical Oral Surgery	1	G. Jeffers	jefferge@udmercy.edu	DOS 843
DPD 841	Clinical Pediatrics	2	S. Atwan	atwansm@udmercy.edu	DPD 841
DPE 841	Clinical Periodontics	3	K. Hillenburg/ J. Winkler	hillenkl@udmercy.edu winklejr@udmercy.edu	DPE 841
DRD 841	Clinical Operative	3	C. Stone	stonecr@udmercy.edu	DRD 841
DSD 845	Professional Ethics Development IV	1.5	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DSD 845
DSD 846	Practice Management III	1.5	M. Aksu	aksumn@udmercy.edu	DSD 846
DZD 801	Course Evalution	1	P. Zarkowski	zarkowp1@udmercy.edu	DZD 801
	Total	30.5

First Year

DS 1 Fall Term

DBS 800 - Infection Control and Safety

This course is designed to assist the student in acquiring and applying infection control and health safety knowledge. Infectious disease challenges to health professionals and safety precautions are assessed in light of evolving scientific evidence, professional organization recommendations, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) governmental regulations.

DBS 811 - Gross Anatomy I

A comprehensive lecture and laboratory study of the structure and function of designated regions of the human body excluding the head and neck regions. Regional anatomy is emphasized and an introduction to systemic anatomy is included.

DBS 813 - General Histology

A comprehensive lecture and digital image-based study of the morphology of cells and basic tissues with special attention to concepts that are most relevant to the predoctoral dental student. The course provides foundation knowledge regarding the structural and functional interrelationships of tissues within organs and organ systems.

DBS 815 - Biochemistry

Covers the basics of proteins and amino acids, carbohydrates, lipids, membrane structure, enzyme kinetics and energy production in preparation for the second course which deals with metabolism and specific dental topics.

DRD 811 - Dental Anatomy

Focuses on the specific morphology, anatomy, and terminology of the individual teeth in the permanent and primary dentitions. It includes a study of the internal pulpal morphology of each tooth. Nomenclature, size, shape, and development will be emphasized, as well as distinguishing characteristics and variations between teeth. The importance of the subject matter to restorative dentistry and reconstructive dentistry, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, oral surgery, endodontics, and orthodontics is introduced. A lecture and laboratory format are used. The laboratory exercises include a variety of identification and discrimination exercises.

DRD 814 - Principles of Dental Materials

This course introduces foundation knowledge in the area of material science for application in clinical dentistry. Materials used in dentistry (polymers, metals and ceramics), biocompatibility issues, physical properties and testing methodology will be presented in order for students to formulate strategies for materials selection. Strategies for material manipulation and selection will be presented simultaneously in DRD 815 and follow in pre-clinical courses DRD 813 and 825.

DRD 815 - Essentials of Clinical Practice

This course presents foundation skills considered essential in the clinical delivery of oral health care. The student is introduced to the patient record and gathering data using the medical and dental health history form; taking and recording vital signs; setting up the dental operatory; infection control procedures; patient-operator positioning, and beginning oral, dental and periodontal evaluation procedures. Students then learn to make and evaluate alginate impressions and stone casts of a typodont and of a classmate. Orthodontic-type bases are made for the former and the latter are mounted in a semi-adjustable articulator. The material is presented through lecture, laboratory and clinical experiences.

DRD 816 - Introduction to Operative Dentistry

This course is designed to build basic skills required for successful clinical practice. Foundation knowledge in dental materials including physical properties, classes of materials, and handling characteristics of restorative materials are provided. Students are introduced to mirror skills, instrument identification, patient/operator positioning, laboratory procedures, and basic cariology concepts. Students are trained in criterion referenced evaluation using basic box form preparations, and conclude with a Class I preparation and amalgam alloy restoration.

DSD 813 - Professional Ethics Development I

This course introduces the dental student to the history of dentistry and the UDM School of Dentistry. A review of foundation principles guiding the School of Dentistry including the Mission and Core Values is included. The student becomes familiar with the concepts of professionalism, professional student behavior and responsibilities, student faculty relationships and School of Dentistry Academic Policies. Diversity and cultural competence issues are introduced. Students become familiar with ethical principles and theories and their applicability to the practice of dentistry. Students participate in developing a Class Code of Ethics.

DS 1 Winter Term

DBS 812 - Oral Histology

This course emphasizes the embryological development and morphology of the orofacial complex, oral cavity, mineralized and soft tissues of the teeth and periodontium, and salivary glands. The functional interrelationships of oral cavity structures in health and disease are introduced. Teaching methods include lecture and digital image-based narrated lab modules provided online.

DBS 814 - Gross Anatomy II

This is a regional approach to a lecture and laboratory study of the structure and function of the head and neck region including the brain. The course is specially designed for the predoctoral dental student.

DBS 818 - Physiology I

This course is composed of lectures to enhance the students' understanding of the mechanisms by which the human body functions in homeostasis. The first semester comprises cell physiology, neurophysiology, muscle, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Particular emphasis is placed on the basics necessary to apply pathology, pharmacology, and oral physiology in clinical dentistry.

DBS 820 - Biochemistry/Molecular Biology

This course continues to develop and build on the principles of biochemistry presented in the first course. Molecular biology topics covered are genetics, mutation, gene regulation, growth signaling, and oncogenesis. These topics prepare the student specifically for Pathology, Growth and Development, and Oral Medicine. Discussion of hormones and receptor function provide the bases for further study in Physiology and Pharmacology. Emphasis is placed on dental relevance, particularly on synthesis and function of collagen, connective tissue, and bone. The composition and role of saliva in the maintenance of oral structures is covered.

DPE 811 - Periodontal Instrumentation I

The dental student is introduced to a portion of the foundation knowledge necessary to provide periodontal patient care. It is the first of three pre-clinical periodontal instrumentation courses offered through the Department of Periodontology and Dental Hygiene and builds on the foundation laid in the Essentials of Clinical Practice. Students are introduced to important anatomic and histologic considerations as well as beginning concepts of the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases. Clinical application of information is emphasized as students learn to use the instruments necessary to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal diseases and maintenance of periodontal health. The instruments covered in this course are the periodontal probe and explorer; the anterior and posterior sickle scalers, and the universal curets.

DRD 812 - Dental Occlusion

This course expands on the first semester course in dental anatomy/morphology. It is composed of a lecture portion and a laboratory portion. The lecture series presents the basic principles of occlusal function and an introduction to occlusal dysfunction. The laboratory provides the student with the opportunity to develop the technical skills necessary to correctly recreate the shapes of the teeth and integrate them into a properly functioning occlusion. The laboratory exercises are designed to allow the student to apply the principles of occlusion to a three dimensional example and reinforce the principles learned in lecture.

DRD 813 - Amalgam Restorative Treatment Techniques

Introduces the dental student to the art and science of operative dentistry. It is the second in a series of three preclinical Operative courses offered by the Department of Restorative Dentistry. Through both lecture and laboratory experiences, students will develop and refine skills necessary to provide operative dental services related to amalgam preparations and restorations. In addition, the course covers cariology and amalgam dental materials.

Second Year

DS 2 Summer Term

DBS 801 - Nutrition

The lecture component describes the metabolism of various nutrients and their pertinent interrelationships. The lecture component describes the metabolism of various nutrients and their pertinent interrelationships. A class project prepares the students to respond to nutrition-related patient questions.

DBS 823 - Physiology II

This lecture course is a continuation of the first semester of physiology with emphasis on the renal, gastrointestinal, endocrine and central nervous systems.

DBS 830 - Introductory Microbiology and Immunology

This is the first of three courses in Microbiology and Immunology. This course addresses the principles of basic microbiology including microbial morphology, physiology, metabolism, and replication. The course also includes a laboratory portion in which the students observe bacteria under the microscope and take throat cultures for examination of the normal oral flora. This course introduces the principles of immunology, the development of the immune response, and the effector mechanisms of innate, humoral, and cell-mediated immunity.

DOD 820 - Growth and Development

This lecture series develops the science of human craniofacial development. It provides the basis for understanding how interruptions in the process create problems for the dental practitioner. The course includes lectures, discussion and demonstrations encompassing the study of human genetics. The fundamentals of genetics, physical evaluation, diagnosis, management and therapeutics of genetic anomalies will be covered.

DOM 822 - Radiology

This course covers intraoral and panoramic radiographic techniques (digital and film), including identification of anatomic structures seen on radiographs, use of radiographic quality evaluation criteria, and application of the geometric principles of radiographic image formation. An understanding of the characteristics of x-radiation provides a basis for radiation risk assessment and safety practices. Emphasis is placed on problem solving and conceptual skills. The course establishes a foundation for subsequent courses in oral diagnosis, radiology, and pathology.

DPE 810 - Periodontal Instrumentation II

This is the second course in a series of three preclinical periodontal instrumentation courses offered through the Department of Periodontology and Dental Hygiene. This course continues to introduce and reinforce the foundation knowledge and skills utilized in non-surgical periodontal therapy. Emphasis is placed on the development of clinical skills in periodontal instrumentation, but students also learn concepts necessary to the diagnosis and treatment planning process. The instruments covered in this course are the area-specific, (Gracey) curets and power-driven instruments. Students also learn instrument sharpening skills.

DSD 820 - Professional Ethics Development II

In group discussion, and with the use of cases, students are introduced to the Central Values and Professional Obligations of dentistry. Four models of the dentist-patient relationship and their application to the Ethical Decision-making model are presented. Students also build on concepts introduced in Professional Ethics I focusing on cultural sensitivity.

DSD 822 - Psychological Aspects of Dentistry

This behavioral science course prepares the dental student in the application of the fundamental principles of behavioral science pertaining to patient-centered approaches for promoting, improving and maintaining oral health. The course addresses a variety of topics in psychology and examines the application of these topics to contemporary dental practice.

DS 2 Fall Term

DBS 822 - Pharmacology I

This course introduces students to basic pharmacologic and therapeutic principles providing a foundation to subsequent pharmacology courses and clinical dentistry. Drug laws and accessing drug information will be covered as well as proper techniques of prescription writing. Topics covered are autonomic drugs, cardiovascular and renal pharmacology, anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents and antimicrobial drugs. Particular emphasis is placed on mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, adverse effects, and drug interactions. Also stressed are the clinical uses of these drugs in the management of medically complex patients and their influence on dental patient management.

DBS 825 - Clinical Immunology and Microbiology

This course addresses specific clinical immunology topics by applying basic immunological concepts previously presented in DBS 830. Host normal microbial flora is described in light of its composition and interactions among its members and with host defenses. A section on the microbiology and clinical manifestations of dental caries and periodontal diseases is included. The latter portion of the course begins discussion of the characteristics of the various infectious agents and their clinical manifestations emphasizing the oral signs and symptoms of infection and the transmission of disease.

DCD 822 - Fixed Partial Denture Treatment Techniques I

This course introduces students to the principles and procedures used in the diagnosis, preparation and fabrication of single tooth, full cast, all-ceramic, and porcelain-fused-to metal restorations for posterior and anterior teeth. Students are introduced to concepts of occlusion, diagnosis, preparation design, temporization techniques, impression procedures, and materials involved in these prosthetic procedures. The course includes a description of the laboratory procedures involved in fabricating a master cast, articulation, and fabrication of a single-unit fixed restoration. The students perform finishing, intraoral adjustment, and cementation procedures of a full gold crown on a simulation manikin. With the completion of the course, the students are able to perform and self-evaluate basic tasks in the treatment planning and fabrication of full coverage cast restorations. The course includes the management of the clinical steps involved in the fabrication of single, full-coverage cast restorations, and will provide each student with a finished full cast gold crown for use in patient education and demonstration.

DCD 829 - Complete Denture Treatment Techniques

This is a preclinical course designed to introduce concepts of diagnosing, treatment planning, and treatment sequencing for the edentulous patient, as well as skills and knowledge necessary to restore form and function with complete dentures. The course focuses on the treatment of the edentulous maxilla and mandible or the edentulous maxilla alone. The laboratory portion includes all steps of complete denture fabrication including impression making, obtaining interocclusal or jaw relation records and concepts related thereto, setting teeth with various occlusal schemes, festooning, clinical remount procedures, and occlusal adjustments. Students do not process dentures, however, this information is presented in lecture. Completion of this course prepares students for treating completely edentulous patients in the clinic.

DOD 821 - Preclinical Orthodontics

This course will provide the student with the foundational diagnostic abilities necessary for orthodontic evaluation of the patient's dental, skeletal and soft tissue problems in three planes of space. Topics to be discussed include: clinical examination and facial typing, digital photography, arch length and tooth size analysis, cephalometric evaluation of the lateral head radiograph, orthodontic bracketing and wire selection, retention, and a round table discussion of interdisciplinary treatment of a missing lateral incisor. Two typodont projects simulating active tooth movement complete the lab portion of the course.

DOM 821 - General Pathology

This course introduces the study of disease through consideration of the submicroscopic, cellular, and tissue changes that afflict humans. The course covers basic concepts of inflammation, healing and repair; disturbances of body fluids and electrolytes; and genetic, autoimmune, and environmental diseases. Neoplasia is thoroughly considered, with emphasis on the most current research on carcinogenesis. Also covered are the causes, development, epidemiology and pathologic appearance of diseases affecting body systems. The relevance of the subject matter to dentistry is emphasized.

DOM 825 - Oral Diagnosis and Radiology

This is the second in a sequence of five courses that will prepare students to function competently in the domains of Examination and Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment Planning. This course introduces the principles and skills of taking the patient's history, performing an examination, and analyzing the information to reach diagnoses. It also covers patient flow, legally required documentation, and other support skills needed in the clinic. The purpose of this course is to prepare students for acceptable performance in clinical diagnosis and treatment planning. Emphasis will be placed on problem solving and conceptual skills, with the goal to develop critical thinking and clinical judgment.

DPE 820 - Biological Basis to Oral Soft Tissue Disease

This course provides the student with an overview of the history and prevalence of periodontal disease. The epidemiology of periodontal disease will be used to understand the risk factors for disease progression and the relationship of periodontal disease to systemic disease. Basic microbiology, normal flora, basic immunology and host-parasite interactions are presented to provide a framework for understanding the biologic basis to periodontal disease. This course is a prerequisite for DPE 821 and DPE 824.

DPE 825 - Advanced Periodontal Instrumentation

This is the third in a series of preclinical periodontal instrumentation courses. A clinical component introduces students to patient care through participation in the Clinical Mentorship Program in which dental students are mentored by second-year dental hygiene students in their first experiences treating a patient. Students also are introduced in lecture to clinical protocols and procedures and beginning concepts of periodontal diagnosis and treatment planning.

DRD 825 - Conservative Esthetic Treatment Techniques

This course introduces the student to the diagnosis, planning, and treatment of teeth using tooth-colored restorative materials. Through both lecture and laboratory experiences, students develop and refine skills necessary to provide operative dental services to patients including Class III, IV, and V composite restorations as well as the conservative management of incipient carious lesions. Introduction to the assessment, treatment planning, and treatment of traumatically injured teeth, non-carious cervical lesions, and esthetic dental problems is also included.

DS 2 Winter Term

DBS 827 - Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

This course continues the infectious disease component of DBS 825, and presents various bacterial, mycotic, and viral pathogens along with the diseases they cause and appropriate therapeutic treatments. The final section of this course introduces students to the fundamental principles of antimicrobial chemotherapy. This is followed by a consideration of the major classes of antibiotics used in dental medicine.

DCD 824 - Fixed Partial Denture Treatment Techniques II

This course introduces students to the principles and procedures used in the diagnosis, preparation and fabrication of a fixed partial denture, utilizing full-cast and porcelain-fused-to metal abutment restorations for posterior and anterior teeth. Students are introduced to concepts of occlusion, diagnosis, preparation design, temporization techniques, impression procedures, and materials involved in these prosthetic procedures. The course includes a description of the laboratory procedures involved in fabricating a master cast, articulation, and fabrication of a three unit fixed restoration. The student completes restoration finishing procedures, intra-oral adjustment, and cementation procedures of a three-unit fixed partial denture on a manikin at a beginner level. Upon completion of the course, the students are able to perform and self-evaluate basic tasks in the treatment planning and fabrication of a three-unit fixed partial denture cast restoration. The course includes the management of the clinical steps involved in the fabrication of cast restorations and will provide each student with a finished three-unit fixed partial denture for use in patient education and demonstration.

DCD 826 - Removable Partial Denture Treatment Techniques

This course prepares the student for the clinical experience of managing and treating patients in need of removable partial denture prosthesis. Emphasis is on the biomechanical implications of design and clinical treatment sequencing. Necessary skills are developed incrementally and practiced through clinical simulation exercises, including practicing design principles on a variety of case scenarios. Students fabricate a definitive partial denture and demonstrate competency in mouth preparation on a manikin, survey and framework design, treatment sequencing, and laboratory prescription writing.

DEN 824 - Preclinical Endodontics

This course prepares the student to diagnose diseases of the pulp and periradicular tissues and to provide practical preclinical experience in performing nonsurgical root canal treatment on uncomplicated anterior, premolar and molar teeth. The goal of this course is to introduce the student to the scope, biologic rationale, and technical aspects of endodontics. The student will develop an understanding of the morphology, physiology and pathology of the human dental pulp as well as the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases of pulpal etiology. The laboratory component of the course will prepare the student in the management of pulpal and periradicular disease through various forms of clinical simulation exercises. Problem solving skills, critical thinking and self-assessment will be emphasized.

DOD 822 - Orthodontics

This lecture course provides the student with an overview of clinical orthodontics today. Students learn about the development of occlusion, classification of malocclusion, biomechanics of tooth movement, orthodontic examination, and orthodontic treatment in the mixed dentition. The role of orthodontics in the profession of dentistry is presented in lecture and reinforced through reading assignments.

DOM 826 - Oral Pathology and Radiographic Interpretation

In this course, students learn the clinical, radiographic and/or histopathologic features of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial structures. A wide range of disease processes and entities are considered, including developmental, degenerative, inflammatory, neoplastic, metabolic, and dermatologic lesions. Emphasis is placed on correlating the pathologic characteristics of each disease with the presenting signs and symptoms. Clinico-pathologic conferences, problem-based projects and seminars supplement classroom presentations.

DOM 828 - Principles of Treatment Planning

This course lays the foundation of skills and critical thinking needed to perform systematic, problem-oriented, appropriate treatment planning. It follows a case-based approach to create treatment plans for patients with multidisciplinary needs. In this course, student dentists begin patient care activities by diagnosing oral problems, and through the generation of a problem list, develop a plan of treatment. Students subsequently provide periodontal and operative treatment for the patient. Students also practice infection control, the techniques of local anesthesia and intraoral radiography during three laboratory sessions.

DOS 822 - Pain and Anxiety I

Dental students are introduced to the methods of dealing with pain control in dentistry. This course provides a rationale for pain control and reviews the essential anatomy, physiology and pharmacology of local anesthetics. Detailed instruction is provided in local anesthetic techniques as well as an introduction to the use of nitrous oxide analgesia.

DPD 830 - Pediatric Dentistry I

This lecture course covers basic, introductory information that prepares dental students to enter the pediatric dental clinic. Topics include behavior management and development of children, development of the primary and transitional dentitions, the development of dental caries in infants, children and adolescents, local anesthesia administration for pediatric dental patients, prevention of oral disease in children, child abuse and neglect, radiological evaluation of pediatric patients, and basic treatment planning issues.

DPE 821 - Periodontal Therapy I

This course introduces the student to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. It builds on the foundations initially discussed in DPE 811, DPE 810, DPE 825, and DPE 820. The student will be able to assess and analyze clinical and radiographic data to assign a proper periodontal diagnosis and treatment plan.

DRD 829 - Strategies for the Prevention of Oral Diseases

This course introduces concepts and strategies utilized in the promotion of oral health and prevention of oral diseases for the individual patient. Foundation knowledge in cariology will be reinforced so students may formulate strategies for caries risk assessment, prevention, and management. Strategies for tobacco use cessation and prevention of oral cancer are presented.

Third Year

DS 3 Summer Term

DBS 831 - Pharmacology II

As a two-semester lecture course, DBS 831 is designed to develop students' understanding of basic pharmacologic principles such as drug actions, drug interactions and adverse reactions. Specific drug groups of concern to the dental practitioner will be studied in detail. Those drugs utilized for the management of medically complex patients will also be examined with particular concern paid to their influence on dental patient management. Drug laws will be covered. Proper techniques of prescription writing are emphasized.

DBS 832 - Part I Board Review

This course is designed to review the information that will be examined on Part I of the National Dental Boards through discussions with the relevant faculty, culminating with a Mock Board Exam.

DCD 841 - Clinical Removable Prosthodontics

Third and fourth year dental students treat edentulous and partially edentulous patients requiring removable prostheses in the clinic. Students provide complete denture and removable partial denture treatment. Students are exposed, on a limited basis, depending on patient needs, to related procedures including over-dentures, immediate dentures, denture repairs, and denture relines.

DCD 844 - Clinical Fixed Prosthodontics

Third and fourth year dental students treat partially edentulous patients requiring fixed prosthodontic treatment in the various clinics. They make cast post and cores for endodontically treated teeth, crowns, and fixed partial dentures (bridges). Students are exposed to related procedures including bonded restorations and esthetic procedures on a limited basis.

DCL 831/ 832/ 833 - Clinical Responsibility

These courses introduce the student to the importance of management skills inherent in the practice of dentistry. The courses reinforce structured schedule management, auxiliary utilization in appointing patients, and responsible case management in sequencing and planning treatment. The students' interactions with faculty, utilization of accepted clinical techniques, and acceptance of faculty feedback are evaluated in these courses. Student self evaluation is emphasized, especially of their organizational and planning skills. Successful completion of the course requires a minimum clinical experience distributed evenly throughout the various disciplines of clinical dentistry.

DEN 842 - Clinical Endodontics

This course provides the student with the clinical experience to become competent in performing root canal treatment on uncomplicated permanent teeth.

DOD 831 - Clinical Orthodontics (Seminar and Assist)

This course consists of a didactic portion and a limited clinic segment. In the didactic portion, the student will be exposed to lectures and typodont exercises dealing with clinical technique. In the clinical segment, on a random, patient-need basis, selected patients referred to the Limited Tooth Movement Clinic (LTMC) will be evaluated by dental students. The assessment will include: oral exam, complete records (panoramic or FMS, lateral cephalogram, model analysis with intra- and extraoral photos), case summary, treatment plan and treatment strategy. Communication with, and referral to, specialists may be reviewed as required. Selected students will have contact only with a few patients as they become available in the LTMC. Students will perform various competency exercises on typodonts as well as utilize patient records to obtain an appreciation of orthodontic diagnosis and technique. "Orthodontic assist" will afford the junior dental student the opportunity to spend a half day in the Orthodontic Clinic observing a postgraduate case seminar as well as shadow a postgraduate orthodontic resident while he/she treats patients in the clinic.

DOD 834 - Orthodontic Seminar

This course provides students the opportunity to apply previously learned orthodontic knowledge to the analysis of clinically related patient problems. In addition, information is provided to integrate the recognition and treatment of limited orthodontic problems into the overall scope of general dental care. An overview of orthodontic biomechanics and the clinical treatment of Class I, II, and III patients will be presented to allow dental students the opportunity to observe the nature of orthodontic treatment in different malocclusion types in both growing and non-growing patients. In addition, the students will be introduced to orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning using a problem-based approach.

DOM 831 - Clinical Oral Diagnosis

This is the intramural clinical experience for third year students in oral diagnosis and treatment planning. The student examines, assesses and diagnoses each patient and creates a problem list. From the problem list, the student develops sequenced, ideal and alternative treatment plans from which an appropriate plan of treatment is chosen with the patient. Competency in examination, assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning is evaluated during a formal competency examination in clinic.

DOM 832 - Clinical Radiology

This is a year-long course in which third year students expose, process, mount and evaluate radiographs. Most experience consists in the evaluation of various intraoral and panoramic radiographs. Emphasis is placed on student self-evaluation of their radiographs for technical quality. Competency examinations in radiographic technique and interpretation are required.

DOS 831 - Clinical Oral Surgery

This third-year course provides the opportunity to practice the clinical skills of basic oral and maxillofacial surgery including the principles of wound healing and management, suturing techniques, uncomplicated exodontia, asepsis and infection control.

DOS 834 - Oral Surgery I

This course is designed to prepare dental students for their clinical experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This course is an introduction to the basic principals of oral and maxillofacial surgery with an emphasis on exodontia. The lecture series will contain information on informed consent, documentation of records, assessment, armamentarium, routine/surgical extractions, complications and medications used in the OMFS clinic.

DPD 824 - Pediatric Dentistry Preclinical

This course is a simulation preclinical course designed to provide preclinical experiences to the dental students. The students will develop the skills to perform basic restorative procedures on primary teeth. The students also learn the skill to perform a mouth guard and space maintainers. The students will be evaluated by daily quizzes and a competency for performing a stainless steel crown on a primary molar. They must also pass an OSCE as a final examination.

DPD 833 - Pediatric Dentistry II

Pediatric Dentistry DPD 833 is taught as both lecture and small group discussion. There is a continuation of the topics of prevention, utilizing sealants and preventive resin restorations, and treatment planning, which were initiated in DPD 830. The course continues with restorative dentistry, and oral surgery as these topics apply to children in the primary and mixed dentitions. There is an emphasis on the recognition of crowding problems and space maintenance in children. A unique part of this course is the time spent in small group treatment planning exercises. DPD 833 also includes lectures on pulp therapy of primary and young permanent teeth.

DPE 824 - Periodontal Therapy II

This course provides the learner with information regarding the surgical aspects of the treatment of periodontal disease, as well as the consideration of pertinent systemic conditions which may affect periodontal surgery. Topics covered include the rationale, indications and contraindications for various periodontal surgical procedures, treatment modalities such as mucogingival surgery, treatment of bony defects, osseous grafting and periodontal tissue regeneration. The mechanisms and timing of healing of surgical sites, as well as post-surgical treatment will be presented. Current trends in periodontics will be emphasized, and the student will learn to understand the relationships between the dental hygienist, general practitioner and the periodontal specialist. The student will understand the role of all health care providers in the management of periodontal disease.