DS3101 - Introduction to Clinical Dentistry

This subject is only available to those students enrolled in the Bachelor of Dental Surgery

Students undertake patient care in the dental clinic within the School and as a clinical placement, including basic prosthodontics with the manufacture of a denture for an edentulous patient. The clinical activity includes taking a detailed medical and dental history and using imaging techniques to assist diagnosis and treatment planning. A thorough understanding of cross infection policies and protocols and basic life support is required, as well as an understanding of patient autonomy and informed consent. This subject includes treatment of patients from different social and cultural backgrounds. Clinical application of topical and local anaesthesia and therapeutics is taught, and dental procedures carried out involving routine restorations and extraction of teeth. Scaling and polishing is undertaken and topical preventive applications and advice provided in the context of understanding the advantages and limitations of the role of preventive dentistry in oral health education and oral health promotion.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply appropriate diagnostic processes and procedures to patients;
• Demonstrate competency in resuscitation and life support;
• Develop skills in patient communication and oral health promotion and prevention strategies;
• Develop and evidence-based approach to dental practice by integrating research and ethical concepts;
• Understand basic concepts in dental radiography.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.