Overview

This module provides the theoretical knowledge underpinning clinical restorative practice.

Students will be able to identify, justify and apply the scientific principles needed to practice dentistry safely and effectively at the level expected of a Dental Therapy graduate.

Students will develop an understanding of the principles of preventive and minimally invasive dentistry and the medical, social, psychological and demographic factors that influence the dental management of patients. The module covers safeguarding and the dental management of vulnerable members of society and students will develop an understanding of the management of paediatric patients. Students will apply this knowledge to enable them to adopt a patient centred, evidence-based and holistic and professional approach.

This module includes the following:

•Paediatric dentistry •Prevention and the principles of health promotion •Aetiology and pathogenesis of dental disease •Dental biomaterials •Evidence-based dentistry including the concepts underpinning contemporary restorative practices •Safeguarding and the dental management of vulnerable patients and patients with anxiety and phobias

Assessment Strategy

Students will be assessed through formative and summative examinations and through the submission of a dissertation on a dental topic of their choosing.

All assessments are marked using a percentage grade scale with the minimum threshold being set at 40%. Standard setting methods are employed in this module.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically discuss the effectiveness and use of a range of options to manage and treat anxious and phobic patients in the dental environment, and demonstrate knowledge of the management of appropriate treatment for vulnerable patients including the special care dental patient, children and the older population, appreciating statutory legal and ethical responsibilities.

• Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of dental disorders and systemic diseases which may affect the management of children and adolescents. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the principles of management of carious lesions in the primary dentition recognising the influence of tooth morphology. Explain the rationale, risks and complications associated with paediatric extractions and synthesise and apply this knowledge to the dental management of paediatric patients.

• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the theoretical principles underpinning restorative dentistry and apply this understanding to critically analyse and solve clinical cases demonstrating proficiency in treatment planning, material selection and restoration design, taking into consideration the medical, social, psychological and demographic factors to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

• Describe the aetiology and pathogenesis of dental caries, non-carious tooth surface loss and periodontal disease and how these provide the rationale for preventive strategies in children, adolescents and adult patients, taking into account risk and lifestyle factors.

• Describe the principles of an evidence-based approach to learning, clinical and professional practice and decision making

• Describe the scientific principles underpinning the use of materials and biomaterials and discuss their limitations and selection, with emphasis on those used in dentistry.