Unit information: Health sciences: Dental Biomaterials in 2019/20

Unit name	Health sciences: Dental Biomaterials
Unit code	ORDS20007
Credit points	10
Level of study	I/5
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director	Professor. Barbour
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Bristol Dental School
Faculty	Faculty of Health Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

Biomaterials are central to many processes in modern dentistry, and it is essential that dental students and qualified dentists have a thorough knowledge and understanding of both modern dental biomaterials, and the principles which lie behind the development and use of these and future biomaterials.

Aims:

• To produce a graduate who has the ability to select and handle biomaterials in a safe, cost effective and clinically appropriate manner.

• To produce a graduate who can evaluate current and future biomaterials in the light of a sound knowledge of biomaterials science.
• To produce a graduate who can obtain appropriate information about biomaterials and communicate relevant information to peers, patients and the lay public.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students should be able to:

• Discuss the mechanical, physical, chemical and biological properties of some common dental biomaterials, and relate these to the likely clinical performance of these materials

• Describe the composition of some common dental biomaterials and the chemical reactions they undergo during clinical processes, and relate these to the clinical applications and limitations of these biomaterials

• Describe and explain the most common reasons for failure of dental biomaterials, including adverse reactions that can occur between different materials

• Explain the science behind the different storage, handling, working, and disposal methods for different dental biomaterials

• Critically evaluate manufacturers’ claims for existing and new dental biomaterials.

This unit contributes to delivery and assessment of the following General Dental Council learning outcomes as specified in Preparing for Practice.

Q5: Apply an evidence-based approach to learning, practice, clinical judgment and decision making and utilise critical thinking and problem solving skills

1.1.10: Recognise the scientific principles underpinning the use of materials and biomaterials and evaluate their limitations and selection, with emphasis on those used in dentistry

1.14.3: Create an oral environment where restoration or replacement of the tooth is viable

1.14.4: Where appropriate, restore the dentition using the principle of minimal intervention, to a standard that promotes the longevity of the restoration or prostheses

1.14.5: Manage restorative procedures that preserve tooth structure, replace missing or defective tooth structure, maintain function, are aesthetic and long lasting, and promote soft and hard tissue health

9.5: Recognise and evaluate the impact of new techniques and technologies in clinical practice

12.2: Recognise the need for effective recorded maintenance and testing of equipment and requirements for appropriate storage, handling and use of materials

Teaching Information

There are two teaching methods used in this unit:

• Interactive lecture-tutorials (ILTs) with a combination of didactic and group/pair/individual activity with live eAssessment in a lecture theatre environment (4)
• Integrated practical-lectures (IPLs) with a combination of didactic teaching and practical activities in the Clinical Skills Lab (4)

Assessment Information

Summative:

• End-of-element eAssessment examination. 60min.

Formative:

• Regular progress tests using question styles and subject matter similar to that used in the exam.
• Interactive technology-supported assessments and games during lectures, for example using Turning Point eVoting handsets.

Reading and References

van Noort R. Introduction to Dental Materials. 4th ed. Elsevier Mosby; 2013. ISBN 9780723436591.