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Preclinical Dental Practice 1 (DENT90059)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 6.25On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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In Block 1 of this subject, students will be introduced to the basic concepts of biomaterials and biomechanics related to dentistry, the broad groupings of materials applied to clinical practice and methods used for testing materials. Students will also learn the processes and materials needed for impression taking and construction of a special impression tray.

Students will also develop initial manual dexterity skills and self-evaluation skills using the Simodont Dental Trainers.

In Block 2, students will be introduced to the concept and evidence of minimal intervention dentistry and how it relates to non-surgical management and surgical treatment of dental caries and restoration of teeth (Conservative Dentistry). Students will gain knowledge of dental materials commonly used for direct restorative procedures and the instrumentation utilised for surgical management of dental caries. They will also engage in pre-clinical laboratory tasks on manikins to develop skills in surgical management of dental caries.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, the student will:


be competent to analyse:


  1. the broad groupings of dental biomaterials;
  2. the biomechanical function of restorative materials and how these materials can replace tooth tissue;
  3. the methods used for the development, testing and evaluation of dental materials;
  4. the risks and hazards associated with the use of dental materials and the use of various forms of dental instrumentation;
  5. the appropriate range, use and selection of materials for the treatment of initial/early dental caries;
  6. the appropriate management of initial/early dental caries by either therapeutic treatment or surgical excision of diseased tissue.

demonstrate skills in:


  1. selecting appropriate materials and making impressions (maxillary and mandibular) on manikins and construction of special trays;
  2. the use of dental instruments for surgical management of dental caries;
  3. restoring teeth requiring small restorations on manikins;
  4. application of concepts of minimal intervention to clinical dental practice.

Generic skills

Students should:

  1. be able to access new knowledge from different sources, analyse and interpret it in a critical manner;
  2. develop skills in effective communication with teaching staff and peers;
  3. develop effective organisational skills and time management;
  4. develop skills in team work;
  5. develop skills in observational and analytical techniques used in laboratories;
  6. be able to measure and record data;
  7. be able to handle and dispose of chemicals and other laboratory materials safely following proper protocol.

Last updated: 3 November 2022