About
Introduction to Operative Dentistry- D537 will introduce the student to the art and science of Operative Dentistry which includes use of hand-pieces and rotary instruments, dental terminology, dental histology as it relates to single tooth direct preparations and restorations, cavity classifications, use of rubber dam and other isolation methods, preventive measures such as fluoride and pit & fissure sealants, and utilization of hand instruments to refine the cavity preparation and place direct restorations. After mastering this information, the student should be able to utilize this knowledge for single tooth direct preparations and restorations. Operative Dentistry has been recognized as the foundation of dentistry and the basis from which most other aspects of dentistry begin. Operative Dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and prevention of defects of the teeth. Such treatment should result in the restoration or maintenance of proper tooth form, function, and esthetics while maintaining the physiological integrity of the teeth in relationship with the adjacent hard and soft tissue utilizing the basics acquired in D537- Introduction to Operative Dentistry. The preparation and restoration of a tooth requires the dentist to practice applied human biology and microbiology, use principles of mechanical engineering, possess a high degree of technical skills, and demonstrate artistic ability. The student will utilize the background knowledge obtained in Introduction to Operative Dentistry, Tooth Morphology, Dental Materials, and Gnathology to prepare and restore the diseased or abnormal tooth to proper form and function.