Oral Health Practice 2 (ORAL20005)

Undergraduate level 2Points: 50On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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This subject comprises lectures, seminars, preclinical practicum, and clinical practicum.

The preclinical practicum focuses on an update on dental materials and the principles and techniques of restorative dentistry in both the deciduous and permanent dentitions.

The clinical practicum includes the prevention and management of dental caries and periodontal diseases across all ages.

Topics include: advanced communication techniques; reflective practice; the principles of cavity preparation; minimal intervention dentistry; reasons for failure of restorations; cuspal overlays; stainless steel crowns; pulp therapy; exodontia technique; post extraction management; space maintenance; periodontics; traumatology; orthodontics within the scope of an oral health therapist (including: orthodontic materials and techniques required for an oral health therapist in orthodontic role; rationale for orthodontic treatment; cause of malocclusion; indications and contra indications for orthodontic treatment; role of the oral health therapist in orthodontics; identification of orthodontic instruments, bands, brackets and attachments; identification of removable appliances); treatment planning; evaluation of treatment; and clinical experience in oral health therapy patient care, including the administration of local analgesia and the management of dental pain, root debridement and sub‐gingival scaling, clinical photography, and the clinical management of dental caries.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject the student should be able to:

  • Examine, diagnose, plan and provide treatment as specified in the dental legislation within Australia for Oral Health Therapy (dental therapy and dental hygiene);
  • Critically evaluate responses to treatment provided to patients, identify limitations of particular treatment modalities and adapt care appropriately;
  • Effectively communicate information regarding oral health status, a range of treatment options and potential outcomes to the patient (and their family), and oral health and general health care providers as necessary;
  • Demonstrate effective patient management while respecting the psychosocial, social and cultural differences of individuals;
  • Evaluate various techniques associated with the prevention and conservative management of common oral diseases; and
  • Identify conditions beyond the scope of an oral health therapist and facilitate appropriate referrals.

On completion of this subject the student should have developed knowledge and skills to:

  • Understand and apply the philosophy of patient‐centred care and appreciate the relationship of oral health therapy with general and specialist dental treatment in the overall care‐plan for the patient; and
  • Work effectively as a team member and use self‐reflection to continuously monitor and improve performance.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject, students should have developed skills in:

  • Observation and organisation;
  • Communication;
  • Multimedia;
  • Planning and presenting;
  • Leadership and team work;
  • Comprehension and critical analysis of scientific concepts and principles;
  • Self-evaluation/assessment;
  • Critical analysis and decision making.

Last updated: 4 March 2025