Diagnostic Sciences (DGS06-DN)

The first part of this course provides the fundamental knowledge in Radiology as it relates to x-ray generation, image formation, imaging systems, radiobiology, and radiation protection. The students will be introduced to different radiographic modalities as well as the radiographic anatomy of intra-oral radiographs, panoramic images, and cone beam CT scans. The second part of the course focuses on the interpretation of radiographic imaging and radiographic appearances of common dental findings such as caries, periodontal disease, inflammatory diseases and dental and developmental anomalies. As anatomy is the currency of radiology, radiographic anatomy of the maxillofacial complex is emphasized. Students are expected to apply their knowledge of head anatomy to various radiographic views. The prime objective of the course is to set the tone of the practice of radiography and radiology in dentistry. This course is open only to students in the Doctor of Dental Surgery program. Core curriculum.

The Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology course builds on the foundational knowledge of pathologic processes that was presented in General Pathology (BAS06-DN 1608), Introduction to Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (DGS06-DN 1508), and Body and Disease 1 (BAS06-DN 2510). This course provides an overview of oral pathology including the clinical, microscopic and radiographic presentation of oral diseases and pathogenesis. Diagnostic procedures and treatment of oral disease will be introduced in relationship to the clinical and radiographic presentation and pathogenesis. Upon completion, students will be able to diagnose such disorders based upon data elicited from patient history and physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. Students will first learn how to approach the diagnostic process, beginning with the development of a list of differential diagnoses based upon history and physical data. Then they will use selection criteria to choose appropriate diagnostic pathways to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. Students will also learn how to assess and compare the validity and accuracy of diagnostic tests. Having arrived at a definitive diagnosis, they will be able to provide evidence-based management/treatment for these disorders, with an appreciation for risk factors and maintenance/preventive strategies influencing the recurrence of such disorders. This course is open only to students in the Doctor of Dental Surgery program. Core curriculum.

Introduction to managing patients who require special dental care. The student will be exposed to interdisciplinary management of patients with a variety of developmental, cognitive and medical disabilities. This course is open only to students in the Doctor of Dental Surgery program. Core curriculum.

This course builds on the knowledge base delivered during the D1 General Pathology (BAS06-DN 1608), D2 OMPR (DGS06-DN 2510) and Body and Disease (BAS06-DN 2510 and BAS06-DN 2610) courses. It will focus on the clinical presentation and natural history of selected medical disorders, as well as present the scientific evidence available in how to manage and approach the selected medical disorders. The practical information needed to arrive at a medical risk assessment in order to develop management strategies in the delivery of dental care will be reviewed. The course will focus on how to obtain and interpret desired information through medical and other consultation; recognition of oral consequences/manifestations of selected medical illnesses; the relevant practical pharmacology of the management of common medical problems and its impact on oral/dental disease and therapy; drug mechanisms, interactions and adverse effects of commonly prescribed medications; how to incorporate medical management decisions into the dental treatment plan and recognition and management of common medical emergencies in the dental office. This course is open only to students in the Doctor of Dental Surgery program. Core curriculum.

This course will focus on the applied neurobiology, diagnostic criteria, clinical assessment and general treatment options for patients with selected chronic orofacial neurosensory / pain disorders. This course is open only to students in the Doctor of Dental Surgery program. Core curriculum.