To clarify the nature of the major courses taken
in dental school, a brief description
of their content follows. (Courses are listed
alphabetically.)
Biochemistry
The course covers the biochemical processes that
occur at the cellular and subcellular
levels, and with tissue and organ metabolism and
function. Emphasis is placed on the
molecular basis of oral and other human
disease.
Complete Dentures
Both the theoretical and practical aspects
related to the construction of complete den-
tures are considered during this second-year
course. A complete denture is constructed
for a mannequin.
Crown and Bridge (Fixed
Prosthodontics)
This course extends over the last three years.
In the second year the student is intro-
duced to the principles and basic techniques of
fixed prosthodontics. Included are such
topics as articulation, tooth preparation,
impressions, working cast construction, waxing,
casting, soldering, and finishing. The third
year focuses on the research aspects, evaluat-
ing comparative studies of materials and
techniques used in prosthodontics. The fourth
year is devoted to seminars on current problems
in the field and to clinical procedures
for more complex problems.
Dental Anatomy
This freshman course deals with the anatomical
structure, individual characteristics, and
the functional arrangement of teeth and their
development.
Dental Materials
This first-year course serves to introduce the
student to the basic principles and proper-
ties of materials used in dental treatment.
Experience to gain and improve manipulative
skills with selected materials is
provided.
Endodontics
This subject is usually taught starting in the
sophomore year. The differential diagnosis
of dental pain is taught. Emphasis is placed on
the technique used for preparing access
cavities, preparing the root canal,
obliterating the canal space, and utilizing endodontic
instruments. The periodontal diseases and the
use of surgical techniques in their treat-
ment are discussed. The fourth year emphasizes
clinical work such as surgical treatment
of pathological disorders of tissues and all
phases of root canal therapy.
Gross Anatomy
The goal of this course is to familiarize the
student with the anatomical basis for the
study of the basic sciences and the clinical
practice of dentistry. Emphasis is placed on
the functional significance of various organ
systems and regions by means of integrating
the lectures and laboratory sessions. The
latter use predissected cadavers, skeletons,
models, X-rays, and movies.
Histology
A study of the microscopic structure of tissues
with special reference to the morphology
of the oral cavity, particularly the teeth.
Both light and electron microscopic levels of
organization of tissues are
analyzed.
Microbiology
The course introduces the student to
bacteriology, virology, parasitology, immunology,
and mycology as related to the oral cavity. The
student learns the microbial diagnostic
techniques and studies the bacteria of the
nasopharynx and the processes of antibiotic
resistance.
Operative Dentistry
In the second year, the basic concepts and
procedures of tooth restoration are presented.
Cavity preparation and restoration are taught
in the laboratory. All types of cavities and
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