DT 144 - Cariology and Minimally Invasive Dentistry

Credits: 3
Variable Credit Course: No

Lecture Hours: 11
Lab Hours: 55
Worksite/Clinical Hours: 0
Other Hours (LIA/Internships): 0

Course Description: Topics include examining the impact of social determinants, health equity, nutrition and disparities on caries prevalence and evidence-based practices to prevent, diagnosis, treat, and control caries. Practice preventive and minimally invasive techniques.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Dental Therapy (DT) coursework from previous quarter.
Meets FQE Requirement: No
Integrative Experience Requirement: No

Student Learning Outcomes

Compare and contrast prevalence of dental caries in American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) with other populations.
Discuss the etiology of dental caries including roles of sugar intake, food insecurity, social determinants, health equity, and disparities.
Explain caries risk and impact of dental caries on infants, young children, teens, adults, elders, and special needs patients.
Explain the etiology and progression of dental caries from bacterial invasion through demineralization and frank cavitation.
Diagnose dental caries from dental examinations and radiographs.
Develop treatment plans options to prevent, treat, and manage dental caries.
Explain benefits of preventing and managing caries through patient behavioral changes, prevention interventions, and minimally invasive treatment.

Course Contents

Unit 1: Introduction to Cariology Unit 2: Caries Prevalence in AI/AN Populations
Unit 3: Minimally Invasive Dentistry Unit 4: Caries Risk
Unit 5: Fluoride Varnish Unit 6: Povidone Iodine
Unit 7: Nutrition

Instructional Units: 4.75