The Dental School seeks to enroll the highest caliber of students who will become exemplary health care professionals. To achieve this strategic objective, the Dental School has established admissions criteria that permit flexibility in choosing an undergraduate program while remaining discriminative with regard to scholastic achievement. Students who are majoring in either science or non-science disciplines, as well as individuals interested in career changes, are encouraged to apply. In addition, those individuals who are interested in changing their careers will receive careful consideration for admission. The admissions process strives to identify applicants who possess the ability to think critically and who have demonstrated independence and self-direction. In all respects, applicants must give every promise of becoming successful students and practitioners of the highest ethical standards.

Applicants should be able to demonstrate not only that they have participated in a challenging program in their respective disciplines, but also that it was supplemented by a broad selection of courses in the social sciences, humanities, and arts. Applicants should also be able to demonstrate the activities undertaken to investigate the dental profession. Additionally, experiences that develop manual dexterity are strongly recommended.

Although the completion of a bachelor's degree before dental school matriculation is strongly encouraged by the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions, applicants who have successfully completed at least three academic years (90 credit hours) in an accredited university will be considered for admission.

No more than 60 of the minimum required credits will be accepted from a community college or junior college; these credits must have been validated by an accredited college of arts and sciences. All admission requirements must be completed by June 30th of the desired year of admission. Applicants must also present favorable recommendations from their respective pre-professional committee or, if no such committee is available, from one faculty member each in the departments of biology and chemistry. Applicants will not be admitted with unabsolved conditions or unabsolved failures.

Requirements for admission are subject to change without prior notice, as the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions reserves the right to modify the prerequisites when additional courses are necessary to improve an applicant's preparation for dental school. At the minimum, the undergraduate curriculum must include the following:

• 8 Semester Hours of General Biology (including laboratories)
• 8 Semester Hours of Inorganic Chemistry (including laboratories)
• 8 Semester Hours of Organic Chemistry (including laboratories)
• 8 Semester Hours of Physics (including laboratories)
• 3 Semester Hours of Biochemistry
• 6 Semester Hours of English Composition

Moreover, applicants are expected to achieve superior grades in these prerequisite courses, because these are predictors of dental student performance in the first two years of the dental curriculum.

A strong record of academic achievement is essential, and all applicants should present science and cumulative grade point averages (GPA) and Dental Admission Test (DAT) scores that exceed the national averages. All applicants are encouraged to take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) no later than December of the year before admission. The final admission decision will be based on DAT scores, performance in previous academic programs, the quality of those programs, and personal factors as evidenced by letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and a personal interview.

Before applying to the Dental School, potential applicants should note the University of Maryland Policy Concerning Prevention and Management of Student and Employee Infection with Bloodborne Pathogens, and the Dental School's Technical Standards for Admission and Matriculation. In addition, individuals who may have a prior or subsequent conviction or nolo contendre plea for a felony may encounter denial or removal of licensure.

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Students are admitted only at the beginning of the fall semester in August. All applications, with the exception of transfer and advanced standing applications, are processed through the American Dental Education Association. The application service, Associated American Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS), will verify transcripts, calculate the grade point average for each applicant, and furnish pertinent information to the Dental School. Although the AADSAS application must be filed by all applicants prior to January 1st of the desired year of admission, early filing of the application is strongly recommended. The Dental School also charges a separate application review fee of $75, which should be submitted directly to the Office of Admissions at the same time the AADSAS application is submitted.
 
Candidates whose applictions meet preliminary screening criteria will be invited to continue with the admissions process and will receive an invitation to complete the University of Maryland supplemental application. Upon receipt of the completed supplemental application, applicants advancing in the admissions process will be invited for an interview with members of the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions. A personal interview does not guarantee admission.

The Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions, composed of members of the faculty, students, and alumni, selects qualified applicants for admission based on the applicant's academic performance, DAT scores, faculty recommendations, and the personal interview. A deposit of $750, to be credited toward tuition, must accompany an applicant's acceptance of an offer of admission. An additional $1,000 deposit is due by April 1st to confirm intent to enroll. Admission is contingent on completion of all prerequisite coursework and continued satisfactory academic performance and behavior during the period between acceptance and enrollment.

Students currently enrolled in dental schools within the United States, as well as graduates of non U.S./non Canadian dental schools, may apply for admission with advanced standing. It should be noted, however, that such admissions occur very infrequently because of limited space availability or incompatibility of curricula at different schools. Students admitted with advanced standing may be exempted from certain courses, based on skills assessment by the faculty. 

The University of Maryland Dental School does not have a specific program designed for candidates seeking admission to the DDS program with advanced standing. However, it may be possible for exceptionally talented graduates of non-US/non-Canadian dental schools or dental students currently enrolled in US/Canadian dental schools, to gain admission to the University of Maryland's Doctor of Dental Surgery program, with advanced standing.

Candidates should be aware that the application process is complex, given the nature of assessing candidate's performance in different curricula at other institutions. Furthermore, all admissions considerations are contingent on space availability within the program.

This policy specifically addresses admissions requirements for two categories of candidates for admission with advanced standing:

• Transfer students
• Internationally trained dentist

Eligibility

In order to be eligible for consideration for transfer, applicants must be currently enrolled in a US or Canadian dental school, and in good academic and professional standing. First consideration will be given to applicants whose personal circumstances compel them to transfer.

Application Process

Application for admission with advanced standing should be requested from the Office of Admissions.

Completed applications should be returned no later than Marchl 1st, along with the following:

• a detailed letter describing the reason for the transfer request
• the $350 application fee (payable to the University of Maryland Dental School)
• a letter from the Dean of the dental school, verifying that the student is currently enrolled and is in good academic and professional standing
• official undergraduate transcript
• DAT score report
• official dental school transcript
• National Board score report (where applicable)
• current dental school catalog

Preliminary Review

After required materials have been submitted and preliminarily reviewed, the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions makes a determination regarding a personal interview. Candidates being seriously considered for admission are interviewed. 

Review by Departments

Based on the outcome of the preliminary interview, candidates who are recommended for possible admission by the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions are requested to provide copies of all course syllabi for courses completed and in progress at the current dental school. Dental School department chairs (or their designees) review the course syllabi and, if necessary, communicate directly with candidates when further clarification is needed. Department chairs/designees then provide the Office of Academic Affairs with the recommendations regarding placement within the curriculum. 

Admissions and Placement Decisions

The Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions makes the final decision regarding admission. The Progression Committee develops specific recommendations regarding placement or modification to the student's curriculum or course requirements to accommodate individual needs. The Associate Dean for Academic Affairs notifies applicants regarding admission decisions and, if indicated, placement decisions. Space must be available within the projected class in order for an offer of admission to be extended.

Eligibility
In order to be eligible for admission with advanced standing as an internationally trained dentist, applicants must have successfully completed the DDS degree (or its equivalent). Additionally, candidates must have passed Parts I and II of the National Dental Board Examination.

Application Process
Applications for admission with advanced standing should be requested from the Office of Admissions.  Completed applications should be returned no later than January 1, along with the following:

• a detailed letter describing the reason for seeking admission with advanced standing
• the $350 application fee (payable to the University of Maryland Dental School)
• Official reports of National Board Part I and Part II scores
• Results of a TOEFL, if English is not the native language 
• Clear, legible photocopies of the dental degree (DDS equivalent), course transcripts, and grades or examination scores, with certified English translations
• A course-by-course evaluation of academic credentials, performed by a recognized evaluation service
• Three letters of recommendation from former faculty members or recent professional contacts

Preliminary Review
After required materials have been submitted and preliminarily reviewed, the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions makes a determination regarding a personal interview. Candidates being seriously considered for admission are interviewed by members of the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions. After the preliminary interview, the Committee makes a determination whether the candidate should be invited to complete the comprehensive skills analysis, conducted by the departments. For candidates invited to continue with the application process, the fee for the skills assessment is $2,000, payable on or before the date of the first departmental assessment.
  
Review by Departments
Candidates receive a list of Dental School department chairs (or designees) who meet with the candidates and conduct academic and preclinical skills assessments. The Dental School reserves the right to modify or waive all or part of the skills assessment, based on the backgrounds of individual candidates. Candidates contact the faculty directly to make arrangements for their evaluations. Department chairs/designees then provide to the Office of Academic Affairs recommendations regarding admission and, where appropriate, placement within the curriculum.

Admissions and Placement Decisions
The Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions makes the final decision regarding admission. The Progression Committees develop specific recommendations regarding placement or modification to the student's curriculum or course requirements to accommodate individual needs. The Assistant Dean of Admissions and Recruitment notifies applicants regarding admissions decisions and, if indicated, placement decisions. Space must be available within the projected class in order for an offer of admission to be extended.

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Consequent to dismissal or withdrawal, readmission may be sought by reapplication to the Dental School. To initiate the readmission procedure, the former student shall submit a detailed letter, with supporting documents, to the Office of Admissions, requesting readmission to the Dental School. Students dismissed for violations of the Professional Code of Conduct are ineligible for readmission, unless substantial evidence of rehabilitation is provided. Determination of substantial evidence is within the School's sole discretion.

Once the letter of application has been processed by the Office of Admissions, the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions, in consultation with the appropriate departments, the Progression Committee, and administrative and nonadministrative faculty members within the Dental School, may consider the student for readmission. The process of consideration may include a careful review of the student's academic record, a study of the reasons for readmission, and assessment of the student's potential for academic progress in the future. Recommendations relative to the readmission will be referred to the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions in conjunction with the Office of Admissions and Office of Academic Affairs for final decision and notification, including conditions for readmission, where appropriate. Decisions resulting from this policy are not subject to appeal.

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Although the Dental School supports a coherent four year program of undergraduate education for most students, it recognizes that some individuals may be prepared to enter after three years.  For eligible candidates, undergraduate programs within the University System of Maryland may offer a combined curriculum leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Dental Surgery. The preprofessional part of this curriculum is taken in an undergraduate college of arts and sciences within the University System of Maryland, and the preprofessional part at the Dental School in Baltimore. Students who have been approved for the combined program and who have completed the arts and sciences phase may, at the recommendation of the dean of the Dental School, be granted the degree of Bachelor of Science by the undergraduate college after completion of the student's first year in the Dental School. Further information and applications should be obtained from the office of admissions at the undergraduate institution.

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 The following numerical range for standardized grades is used in the evaluation of student performance.

A	90-100
B	80-89
C	70-79
F	below 70

A - Excellent: This grade signifies performance of the highest quality or exceptional achievement. It is recommended that this grade be awarded to those students with the highest degree of talent, skills, and knowledge, compared with the expected performance of students at that particular stage of development and training.

B - Good: This grade should be recorded for students who have demonstrated knowledge, talent, or skills significantly above the acceptable level, compared with the expected performance of students at that particular stage of development and training.

C - Satisfactory: This grade should be recorded for students who have demonstrated knowledge, talent, or skills at an acceptable level, compared with the expected performance of students at that particular stage of development and training.
 
E - Conditional Failure: This grade is used as a progress grade or as a temporary final grade to indicate that a student, who otherwise is progressing satisfactorily in a course, has failed to master limited segments of a course or some clinical procedures, but may achieve a satisfactory level of proficiency within a short time if allowed to do so based on overall academic performance. When the E grade is used as a temporary final grade, it counts in the grade point average calculation. If successful remediation occurs, the student will receive the final grade earned in the course, shown on the permanent record along with the original E. An unresolved grade of E will result in a permanent grade of F.

F - Failure: Students who receive this grade exhibited unsatisfactory performance. This grade indicates that they have not achieved an acceptable level in skills and knowledge. As a result, they are not considered ready to advance to more complex work or to perform independently. When the failure has been absolved, the F grade will remain on the student's permanent record, but only the new grade will be used in computing the grade point average.

H - Honors: Elective clerkship courses are graded as honors when the student demonstrates excellence and advanced knowledge, skills and attitudes that exceed dental curriculum requirements in the dental specialty or practice area.

I - Incomplete: A student whose work in completed assignments is of acceptable quality but who, because of circumstances beyond the student's control (such as illness or disability), has been unable to complete course requirements, will receive a grade of Incomplete. When all requirements have been satisfied, the student will receive the final grade earned in the course. Except under extraordinary circumstances, an Incomplete may not be carried into the next academic year.

P - Pass: This grade signifies acceptable performance and satisfactory completion of course requirements.

WD - Withdraw:  This grade indicates withdrawal during the first half of the course.

WP - Withdraw Pass or WF - Withdraw Fail:  This grade denotes student performance to date when withdrawal occurs after the first half of the course.

Scholastic averages are computed on the basis of credits assigned to each course and the following numerical values for grades: A-4, B-3, C-2, E-0, F-0. The grade point average is the sum of the products of course credits and grade values, divided by the total number of course credits in that year of the curriculum.

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The Student Progression Committees review the performance of each student at the end of each semester. On the basis of progress and/or final grades, the committees determine one of the following actions for each student: unconditional advancement; summer remediation; conditional advancement; probationary advancement (repeat of a course, repeat or remediation of the year); or recommend academic dismissal to the Faculty Assembly, which approves all decisions pertaining to academic dismissal or graduation. Remediation or re-examination is not offered until the committees meet after the end of the academic year in May.

A. Students who do not meet published departmental/course standards for attendance may lose the opportunity for remediation. Students with a pattern of unexcused absences who receive one or more failing or deficient grades may be dismissed. Extenuating circumstances should be identified at the time the absence occurs, following procedures in the attendance policy, in order to be considered as a basis for appeal.

B. Students must take the Part I National Board Dental Examination no later than October 1 of the second year of the dental curriculum. Re-examination, if necessary, must be completed no later than April 1. Students who do not pass Part I by the end of the second year of the dental curriculum will be permitted to begin didactic courses in the fall semester of the third year, but will not be advanced to the clinic. These students must pass Part I within 15 months of eligibility or they will be dismissed. (See Policy for Limiting Enrollment Time and National Board Examination Eligibility.)

C. Missed clinical time resulting from late entry into clinic or excused absences must be rescheduled if the student is not progressing satisfactorily in clinic. In the case of an excused absence, the final grade will be determined at the end of the extended time. If an excused absence occurs during year four, the student may be required to register and pay tuition for the summer session with an opportunity for graduation in July or later. All other absences will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

D. A student may appeal any action of the progression committees or the Faculty Assembly by submission of a written request to the associate dean.

Unconditional Advancement - Students must achieve a 2.00 grade point average and passing grades in all courses to advance unconditionally to the next year. Second-year students must also successfully pass the Part I National Board Dental Examination for unconditional advancement to the third year.

Summer Remediation

1. A student may be permitted to resolve deficiencies during the summer session, as recommended by the progression committees. The student may be given one retake of a failed exam before a repeat of the course is required.
2. Depending on the type of deficiencies involved, students may be required to register and pay a fee for the summer session. The progression committee may also permit students in Years I and II to repeat a failed basic science course at another institution during the summer session. Students who repeat a failed course during the summer are placed on academic probation.

Conditional Advancement - This status is assigned to:

1. First- and second-year students with minor deficiencies who have not successfully completed remediation of deficient grades during the summer session
2. Second-year students who have not passed the Part I National Board Dental Examination. These students must meet the requirements of a remedial program approved by the Student Progression Committee before taking a re-examination.
3. Third-year students with minor clinical deficiencies who have not successfully completed all courses but who, in the judgment of the committee, should be afforded the opportunity to complete requirements from the third year while proceeding with fourth-year courses.

Probationary Advancement - Students with a final grade of F in one or more courses at the end of the academic year may be advanced on probation and must remediate or repeat all courses in which there was a deficiency to a passing grade of C, achieve a minimum grade point average of 2.00, and must pass all courses taken during the probationary academic year. Failure to do so will result in dismissal from the dental program subject to discretionary review by the Faculty Assembly. In accordance with the Dental School Policy for Limiting Enrollment Time and National Board Examination Eligibility for Predoctoral Dental Students, the maximum number of years to complete Year I and II courses is three years and the maximum number of years to complete Year III and IV courses is three years.

1. Students who fail a year one course may be placed on probation and assigned to a special academic program where they complete first and second year courses in a maximum of three years.
2. Students who fail one Year III course may be advanced conditionally on probation to Year IV where the schedule and curriculum permit repeat of the failed course while taking Year IV courses. In these circumstances, the following guidelines will be applied: attendance at the repeated course must take precedence where there is a scheduling conflict; coursework that could not be completed due to scheduling conflicts in the fall semester must be completed during the following fall semester; courses not affected by a scheduling conflict must be successfully completed in accordance with the probation policy.
3. Students with deficiencies too severe to be absolved during the summer session may be afforded the opportunity to repeat or remediate a specific year of the dental program. Repeat of the year entails repeating the year's work in its entirety. Remediation of the year provides students with the opportunity for exemption from courses or portions of courses at the discretion of the department chairs. During the remedial year students repeat failed courses and may also be required to repeat courses previously passed to maintain or enhance skills and/or knowledge. The grade on the repeated course, whether higher or lower than the original grade, replaces the original grade in the grade point average calculation. Students who are repeating or remediating any year of the dental program are placed on probation and are subject to the probationary guidelines noted above.

Academic Dismissal - If it is determined that a student is progressing so poorly that remediation will not bring him/her to a passing level, dismissal will be recommended to the Faculty Assembly.
Advancement Process August 2009

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Appeals Process

The following guidelines have been established to review appeals of decisions made by the Progression Committees, or in cases of dismissal, decisions made by the Faculty Council.  This mechanism will not be used to dispute the published advancement guidelines which have been approved by the Faculty Council.

1. A student wishing to appeal an advancement or dismissal decision must initiate the appeal process within 5 working days of receiving written notification from the Office of Academic Affairs regarding Advancement Committee decisions, or from the Dean regarding dismissal decisions made by the Faculty Council.   In this written appeal, the student must present evidence of compelling additional information or extenuating circumstances not previously considered and the reason why the information was not previously presented.  The written appeal must include: the decision the student is appealing; the specific basis for the appeal, including appropriate supporting documentation; and the academic status that the student is requesting. The student may present and prioritize more than one alternative.

2. The appeal, which must be submitted in writing to the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, will be reviewed by a panel composed of the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and the Chair of the Progression Committee.

3. The review panel will determine whether the student's written appeal meets the criteria outlined above. Should the panel determine that an appeal lacks the required evidence, the appeal will be denied.   In these circumstances, there is no further appeal.

4. Should the panel determine that an appeal meets the required criteria outlined above, the panel will forward the appeal to the Progression Committee for its consideration. 

5. The Progression Committee will meet within ten working days, when possible, of receiving the initial appeal request from the review panel. 

6. The Committee will issue a written decision within five days of its meeting, when possible. The Committee's decision is final and there is no further appeal. The Committee's decision shall be forwarded to the Faculty Council for information.

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The maximum number of years to complete all dental courses and pass Part I and Part II of the National Board Dental Examinations will be six years.* 

1. The maximum number of years to complete Year I and Year II courses will be three years. After completing the Year I curriculum, a student will have up to a maximum of three attempts within 15 months of eligibility to pass Part I of the National Boards.  A student who does not pass Part I within 15 months of eligibility, regardless of the number of attempts, will be dismissed.
2. The maximum number of years to complete all Year III and Year IV clinical and didactic requirements will be three years.  A student who fails Part II of the National Boards a total of three times during the first senior year and any remedial senior year will be dismissed.
3. Following completion of Year IV requirements, a student may be granted an additional seven months to pass Part II of the National Board Dental Examinations on a third and final attempt provided all the following criteria are met: (a) total time enrolled including the additional seven months will not exceed the six-year limit and (b) the student has had only two opportunities to take Part II.
4. Requests for exceptions to the above timetable because of interruptions caused by illness or leave of absence may be appealed to the Faculty Council.
5. A student may appeal any decision reached pursuant to this policy under the School's established academic appeal process.
6. This policy does not apply to students in combined degree programs.

*This policy is based on the current format and schedule of the National Board Dental Examinations.  In the event there is a change in the format or schedule of the examinations, this policy will be revised.
Approved by the Faculty Council: November 15, 2007

Year four students must take National Boards Part II before January 15 in their senior year and submit a score report or document certifying that they took the examination. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in the loss of clinical privileges until validation is received. Re-examination, if necessary, must occur before May 1.  (See Policy Limiting  Enrollment Time and National Board Examination Eligibility and Program for Dental Students Who Have Not Successfully Completed Part II of the National Board Examination by the End of the Senior Year.

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In accordance with Dental School policy, successful completion of Part II of the National Board Dental Examination is a requirement for graduation. Following completion of Year IV requirements, a student may be granted an additional seven months to pass Part II of the National Board Dental Examinations on a third and final attempt provided all the following criteria are met: (a) total time enrolled, including the additional seven months, will not exceed the six-year limit, and (b) the student has had only two opportunities to take Part II. A continuing student will register in, and pay tuition for, a program specifically designed to meet the student's needs as determined by the Clinical Progression Committee. The Committee will develop this program based on the department chairs' recommendations for student assignment to clinical programs in need of student services. Additionally, continuing students will be assigned patients who need comprehensive care and/or will participate in specific clinical and nonclinical activities to maintain their clinical knowledge and skills. Students will also be assigned an independent course of study to assist them in preparation for the board examination.

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The faculty and administration of the Dental School expect every student to attend all scheduled lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions, and clinic assignments, except in the event of illness or emergency.  Course syllabi for each department and the Clinic Manual address specific departmental and clinical attendance policies and requirements, and delineate a policy for managing missed examinations, quizzes and other assignments. Students may lose the opportunity for remediation and/or re-examination if they do not meet published departmental/course standards for attendance.

Students who anticipate that they will be absent for planned events (e.g., religious holidays) should contact course directors to make arrangements in advance of the anticipated absence. Year III and Year IV dental students should also contact their general practice managers and directors of block assignments, if indicated.

In the event of an emergency or serious illness, students should contact course directors, general practice managers, and directors of block assignments, preferably before scheduled educational activities. If prior notice is not possible, contact should be made at the earliest opportunity. Course directors will determine the effect of the absence and the subsequent course of action.

Students who miss specific educational activities including, but not limited to, examinations, quizzes and block assignments, must complete an absence form, including an explanation for the absence. The student's signature on the form verifies that the explanation provided is accurate. The course director will review the absence form, make a determination regarding the appropriate course of action, and sign the absence form. Copies of the form will be provided for the student, the course director/department, and the Office of Academic Affairs. Student appeals of the final disposition must be made within five working days, and should be referred to the department chair. If a satisfactory resolution is not reached, the appeal should be forwarded to the office of the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for a final disposition.

Students who anticipate a long-term absence (longer than five days) should directly contact the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs to discuss strategies for managing the impact of the absence on the educational program.

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The educational opportunities and guided experiences of the pre-doctoral dental education program at the University of Maryland are designed to prepare the new graduate for entry into the profession of dentistry. Prior to graduation, pre-doctoral dental students are expected to demonstrate that they have attained competence. The Dental School employs specific exams to assure students meet the expectations articulated in the Maryland Competency Statements described above.

Competency exams are a formal didactic and/or practical examination, the requirements of which are standardized across the population of students being assessed. A competency exam assesses the knowledge, and/or skills, and/or values required to achieve a goal (or a set of goals) relative to the profession of dentistry and/or delivering oral health care. Each is graded according to written protocols. All competency exams must be successfully challenged prior to graduation. A competency exam may be any of the following:

• Case based report - standardized
• Demonstration - clinical performance
• Demonstration - simulated patient/typodont/laboratory
• Exam - oral case-based
• Exam - written (responding to e-files)
• Exam - written (case-based)
• Exam - written (testing didactic material)
• Presentation - oral
• Review of literature
• Review of patient clinical records

 Students are apprised of competency exams and their requirements in one or more ways:

• Course syllabi contain descriptions of competency exams included in the course
• Faculty discuss with students competency exams on the first day of class
• Clinic Manual contains descriptions of the competencies
• GP managers distribute information about clinical competency examinations and grading to their students
• Each GP maintains clinical competency evaluation forms

The Competency Exam Manual is a compilation of the reference documents developed for each competency exam. It lists prerequisites, grading protocols, remediation, and other pertinent information.  The Competency Exam Manual is located on Blackboard, the campus e-learning software platform.

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The Doctor of Dental Surgery degree is conferred on a candidate who has met the conditions specified below:

1. A candidate must have satisfied all requirements of the various departments.
2. A candidate must have acquired and demonstrate the knowledge, skills and values contained in the Dental School Competencies.
3. A candidate must pass all fourth-year courses and achieve a minimum 2.0 average in the fourth year.
4. The candidate must pass the Part II National Board Dental Examination.
5. The candidate must have satisfied all University obligations before graduation.
6. The candidate must be clear of all disciplinary matters.

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Graduation Dates

Students who enter the DDS program at the University of Maryland Dental School are required to complete a minimum of four academic years at the School. The length of the program has been established to provide the students a comprehensive professional education. Graduation for students who complete the program within this prescribed period is in May. Students who fail to complete all requirements in May will be considered for graduation the following July, December, or May, as they are judged ready to do so.

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*General Practice Simulation - Credits in Selected Courses (#) are reduced for GPS Students.

F-Final Grade; P-Progress Grade.  Year-long courses have progress grades in the fall semester.  The spring final grade is applied to the credits for the fall and spring.

Curriculum requirements are subject to change without prior notice.

Year III Elective Course

PEDS 539, Pediatric Dentistry Elective, 6 Credits (3 Fall/3 Spring). This course allows selected Year III students to pursue further studies in pediatric dentistry specially designed to meet their needs and interests.  Students devote a portion of their clinic time to this specialized program; the remaining clinic time is spent in the comprehensive treatment of patients in the regular program.  The course includes clinical activities in the undergraduate and postgraduate clinics and didactic seminars.  Enrichment activities include humanities seminars, public health experiences, and career planning.

Year IV Elective Courses

The elective clerkship allows selected students to pursue further studies in departmental activities specially designed to meet their needs and interests. Students devote a portion of their clinic time to these specialized programs; the remaining clinic time is spent in the comprehensive treatment of patients in the regular program. Clerkships are available in basic science and clinical disciplines, and several incorporate off-campus clinical experiences in various practice settings.

BHAV 528H. Behavioral Dentistry (3) Fall/Spring. This year-long course offers students an introduction to the application of behavioral principles to dental diagnosis and treatment.  In the first semester the psychological management of human behavior, identifying and reducing stress, and the principles of effective communications are emphasized.  The clinical relevance of each topic is stressed.  In the second semester the behavioral, psychological and biological aspects of human nature are discussed and applied to patient care.  The course addresses specific patient types (non-compliant, abused, psychologically impaired) and problems (chronic pain, infectious disease, high fear/phobia, noxious habits).  Approaches to diagnosis and treatment of patients of all ages and diversity are emphasized

BMAT 518. Dental Biomaterials I (1) Fall/Spring. This course, designed for first year dental students, lays a dental biomaterials foundation for subsequent studies. It focuses on the basics of biomaterials sciences, physical, chemical, mechanical and biological properties, and the structure-property-performance relationships. It covers the basics and applications of dental waxes, polymers and polymerization, direct-filling resin composites, indirect resin composites, bonding, impression materials, dental ceramics, dental amalgams, cavity liners, and the safe handling of dental biomaterials.

BMAT 528. Biomaterials II (1) Fall/Spring. The course for students in the second year focuses on more specific topics, including investing and casting, casting alloys, dental porcelain, CAD/CAM, grinding and polishing, dental cements, and biocompatibility. It also covers more advanced topics on preventive dental materials, endodontic materials, implant materials, periodontal materials, and tissue engineering.

CARI 521. Cariology (1.5) Spring. The course presents current evidence-based information about biological aspects of dental caries.  A large part of the content involves basic microbial ecology of the oral cavity and microbial mechanisms of caries. Other topics are histopathology of enamel, dentin and root surface caries; chemistry and functions of saliva as they related to dental caries, and associations between saliva and oral structures, particularly teeth and dental plaque; history of fluorides in dentistry and their mechanisms against dental decay; dietary and nutritional aspects of caries and current research on caries susceptibility differences in human populations.

CCPM 538. Comprehensive Care and Practice Management III (4 Fall/4 Spring).  Year three students in the General Practice Simulation pilot program manage patient care and provide treatment that concentrates on patient needs while meeting or exceeding minimum required experiences for clinical progression.  Attendance, clinical participation and productivity, case management, self-evaluation log, mentor interaction, and clinical educational experiences are tracked.

CCPM 548. Comprehensive Care and Practice Management IV (6 Fall/6 Spring). Year four students in the General Practice Simulation pilot program manage patient care and provide treatment that concentrates on patient needs while meeting or exceeding minimum required experiences for graduation.  Attendance, clinical participation and productivity, case management, self-evaluation log, mentor interaction, and clinical educational experiences are tracked.

CCPM 551 and CCPM 552. General Practice Clerkship I and II (10 Fall/10 Spring) Students assist new juniors in acclimating to the clinic setting and provide guidance about logistics and patient management. Clerks assist with impressions and other activities that reinforce vertical integration without impinging on faculty supervision and responsibility. The course also includes participation in departmentally sponsored calibration sessions and an opportunity to provide treatment for patients with more complex treatment needs.

CSLX 518.  Community Service Learning I (.5, 5.) Fall/Spring. Year one students participate in a one-week rotation at the Dental School's Cecil County site gaining experience in a community setting that focuses on treating an underserved population of primarily pediatric patients.

 CSLX 548. Community Service Learning (2, 3) Fall/Spring. Service Learning is a two-week experience in the Dental School's Cecil County facility and three-week experience at another extramural site for senior dental students. The purpose is to gain outside clinical experience while gaining an appreciation for cultural diversity and the oral health needs of underserved populations. The service learning experience can be fulfilled in several ways, such as working at community sites in Maryland treating underserved populations; working at specialty sites that prepare the student for postgraduate training; or working with health missions to foreign countries. Because of logistics, service learning experiences in foreign countries is two rather than three weeks. Service Learning includes both the clinical experience at the site, as well as completion of a report that evaluates the student's experience in clinical procedures and service learning models.

DAGD 552. Advanced General Dentistry Clerkship (10) Spring. Selected students are assigned full-time to the Advanced General Dentistry clinic in the spring semester.  The clerkship is an innovative program that allows motivated students to develop beyond what the current four-year dental curriculum allows. Students are trained in advanced techniques - recent technologies in materials, patient and practice management; introduced to clinical research; prepare complex treatment plans; and perform a wide range of clinical procedures. The selected students will participate in the Advanced Education in General Dentistry curriculum.

DANS 521. Dental Anesthesiology (2) Fall. Students learn dental local anesthetic administration techniques and pain and anxiety control techniques.

DNTS 548. Special Topics (1.5) Fall/Spring.  Students select from a menu of elective courses on varying dental, medical, health, research, and practice management topics to complete a minimum of 1.5 credit hours of electives. 

DHPP 538P. Pediatric Dentistry III (6) Fall/Spring. Students learn to provide comprehensive dental care for young patients while encouraging the development of a positive attitude toward dental care.  The course includes diagnosis and treatment planning, preventive procedures including fluoride therapy and sealants, non-punitive patient management techniques, treatment of traumatic injuries to the primary and young permanent dentition, restorative procedures in primary teeth, pulpal therapy, and interceptive orthodontics. 

DHPP 548P. Pediatric Dentistry IV (6*) Fall/Spring. Students focus on providing dental treatment to pediatric and adolescent patients.  Clinical experience includes radiology, diagnosis and treatment planning, prevention, local anesthesia, restorative dentistry and basic behavior management techniques.  Students assist or observe pediatric dental emergencies and advanced behavior management during a rotation in the postdoctoral pediatric dentistry clinic.  Involvement in community outreach projects is encouraged.

DRUG 522. Drug Abuse and Chemical Dependency (1) Spring. Presented by basic and clinical science faculty, the course provides information on different types of street drugs, their complications, methods of intervention and treatment of the substance abusing patient.   It introduces students to Twelve-Step programs, Al-anon, and the State Well-Being Committee.

DSCP 538. Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences (5) Fall/Spring. This two-semester course has a didactic component and several clinical rotations.  The didactic portion of the first semester deals with systemic diseases and their impact on dental treatment.  This is reinforced with clinical rotations in patient admissions and urgent care clinics, where review of the medical history is a crucial step in the evaluation of the patient.  The didactic portion of the second semester includes a section on temporomandibular disorders and a clinical review of oral lesions/disorders with emphasis on diagnosis and management.

DSCP 548. Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences (3) Fall/Spring. This course is the clinical continuation of DSCP 538. It includes rotations in patient admissions, urgent care and clinic activities.  Students complete biopsy/pathology on-line case reviews and receive laboratory experience.

DSUR 522. Essentials of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (1) Spring. The course provides readings and lecture material relating to the priniciples of exodontia and routine oral surgery. A review of inflammation and wound healing precedes instruction in the application of force with dental elevators and forceps to safely remove teeth. Concepts of conservation of attached gingiva and alveolar bone are emphasized. Surgical procedures for the preparation of the mouth for prosthodontic rehabilitation are presented. Presurgical evaluation of the patient, selection of surgical procedure, instrumentation and technique, and development of properly designed mucoperisteal flaps with concomitant suturing techique are reviewed and illustrated with clinical examples.

DSUR 538. Advanced Topics in Oral-Maxillofacial Surgery (4) Fall/Spring. Lectures cover all phases of oral and maxillofacial surgery beyond topics presented in the Year I course. Material presented includes complications of oro-facial disease, odontogenic infection, maxillofacial trauma, maxillofacial growth and developmental deformities, and odontogenic and maxillofacial neoplasms. Emphasis is placed on the treatment and management of these conditions. New techniques for the management of dental and maxillofacial problems are included as they develop.

DSUR 541. Selected Topics in Oral-Maxillofacial Surgery (1) Fall.  The didactic course consists of two components: Management of Medical Emergencies and Special Topics in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery.
The Management of Medical Emergencies - Lectures include the recognition and management of seizures and drug related emergencies including overdose and allergy, altered levels of consciousness, unconsciousness, respiratory distress and obstruction, chest pain and cardiovascular collapse.

Special Topics in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery - Lectures and clinical case reports introduce the student to the extent and breadth of services provided by the Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon. Topics include: 1) Management and reconstruction of patients with craniofacial anomalies including cleft lip and palate, and craniofacial anomalies; 2) Reconstruction of both hard and soft tissues of the face that have been destroyed or injured as a result of trauma or ablative tumor surgery; 3) Surgical management of temporomandibular joint disorders;  4) Facial esthetic surgery.

DSUR 548. Current Developments in Oral-Maxillofacial Surgery (4) Fall/Spring. Students apply their knowledge of Oral-Maxillofacial Surgery in the treatment of patients.

DSUR 551 and DSUR 552.  Oral Surgery Clerkship I and II (10 Fall/10 Spring). General Requirements:  Satisfactory progress in all areas toward completion of graduation requirements; cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher and minimum of B grades in all Oral-Maxillofacial Surgery courses. Selected students are expected to participate in the clerkship in the fall and spring semesters of the senior year. 

Experiences include advanced exodontias and dentoalveolar surgery; one month hospital OMS; participate in seminars on office oral surgery; perform oral surgery of increasing difficulty; attend rounds with the oral maxillofacial surgery residents at University of Maryland hospital; attend surgical orthodontic and implant conferences with the postgraduate students; and attend selected operating room cases at the University of Maryland Hospital.

EBDM 512. Principles of Scientific Evidence (2) Fall. The course provides the essential elements of the scientific method needed by dentists to critically evaluate the oral health literature and engage in evidence-based practice. Specifically, students will be taught how to access the dental literature via the HS/HSL and other internet sites. They will also learn to conduct a simple review of the literature. Research methods, study design categories, and basic statistical analysis will also be introduced.

ENDO 522. Endodontics (3) Spring. The course consists of lectures, assigned readings, and laboratory sessions.  The primary objectives are to 1) introduce the Year II student to endodontics; 2) teach the basic principles of performing endodontic therapy; and 3) introduce clinical aspects of diagnosis and management of the endodontic patient. 

ENDO 538. Endodontics (3) Fall/Spring. Lectures expand on the basic material previously presented in Endo 522. Students are educated in the diagnosis, treatment and/or management of the endodontic patient through critical thinking and a logical approach.  Cases are treated clinically, with the student demonstrating an acceptable level of competency in the non-surgical treatment of uncomplicated single rooted teeth by the completion of the third year.

ENDO 541. Endodontics (1) Fall. Advanced endodontic instruction is provided in the areas of management of traumatic injuries to the dentition, pulp and supporting structures.  The students learn how to recognize the indications for surgical and complicated non-surgical root canal therapy and take appropriate action.

ENDO 548. Endodontics (2) Fall/Spring. Students gain competency in clinical endodontics with treatment of more complex multirooted cases.

FOUN 511. Dental Anatomy and Occlusion (3.5) Fall. The course provides students with instruction to develop fundamental knowledge and principles used to develop and recognize healthy dentition and occlusal function. A closely supervised clinical experience will be used to reinforce and augment occlusal concepts. Instruction includes lectures, seminars, laboratory exercises, and clinical simulation.

FOUN 518A, Operative Dentistry, (2, 3) Fall/Spring. Students develop fundamental knowledge and principles used to restore damaged teeth and replace missing teeth. The preventive dimension of restorative care and treatment planning are emphasized.  Limited but increasing clinical experience, with close faculty supervision, augments and reinforces the didactic foundation. Instruction includes lectures seminars, self-instructional programs, laboratory exercises, and clinical simulation.

GERI 522. Geriatric Dentistry II (1) Spring. The course provides an understanding of the multidisciplinary needs of older adults and the role dental professionals play in providing care to this population. With the ever-increasing population of older adults in the community, this course will address physical and psychological changes associated with aging as well as the identification and management of common oral conditions of the elderly.

GERI 532. Geriatric Dentistry III (1) Fall. This course will address clinical concerns when working with medically compromised older adults. Common oral conditions and their management will be discussed. Other topics include, but are not limited t the role of caregivers in providing daily oral care; identifying early signs of cognitive impairment; optimal oral health techniques; and the roles and responsibilities of oral health professionals.

GERI 551 and GERI 552.  Extramural Geriatric Clerkship I and II (10 Fall/10 Spring).  General Requirements:  Interest in order adults and the medically compromised; satisfactory academic performance.

This clinically-based program provides selected students with opportunities to provide care to medically compromised and older adult institutionalized and non-institutionalized dental patients. Sites include the Baltimore VA, Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and other long-term care facilities.  A seminar series on related topics is also presented at the Dental School. 

GPAT 512. General Pathology (4) Spring.  General Pathology covers the morphologic, chemical and physiologic changes of basic disease processes and important specific diseases.

GROW 521. Growth and Development (1) Fall.  The course includes general facial characteristics and the underlying developmental mechanisms that determine these characteristics.  Students learn to describe the developmental changes that occur in the teeth and the mandible and maxilla during development of the occlusion; developmental changes that occur in the relationships between the teeth, and those that occur in the maxilla and mandible as an individual passes through the stage of development of occlusion; and factors involved in the etiology of malocclusion.  Lectures provide instruction on identifying those factors that influence the development of occlusion, a system of classification of malocclusion, and the etiology of malocclusions in relation to a variety of factors.

IMPL 538. Dental Implants (1) Fall/Spring. Course topics include treatment planning, imaging, bone grafting in developing an implant site, esthetic considerations, partially and completely edentulous implant restorations and occlusal considerations, and hands-on training sessions.

IMPL 551 and 552. Implant Prosthodontics Clerkship I and II (1-10 Fall/1-10 Spring).  The course consists of lectures, seminars, journal club, case presentations and clinic.  The student is introduced to multiple fixed implant prosthodontics procedures and techniques. Restoration of esthetically involved cases in the anterior zone and complex implant restorations are treatment planned, surgery observed and restorations completed. CT scan evaluation/implant software analysis are introduced.

MICP 511M. Microbiology and Immunology (4) Spring. This course provides provides students with the fundamental principles of microbiology and immunology to understand the mechanisms of the production of disease by microorganisms and the means by which the host protects itself against them.  The clinical immunology portion of the course as well as the case-based conferences are intended to prepare students to synthesize information as it related to clinical care.

MICP 521I. Infectious Diseases (2) Fall.  This course provides provides students with the fundamental principles of microbiology and immunology to understand the mechanisms of the production of disease by microorganisms and the means by which the host protects itself against them.  The clinical immunology portion of the course as well as the case-based conferences are intended to prepare students to synthesize information as it related to clinical care.

NPSC 512N. Neuroscience (3) Spring. The neuroscience course includes a study of neuronal activity and functions ranging from molecular events to neuronal circuitry and neurophysiology. The activities of the nervous system presented include: nociception, discriminative touch and proprioception, special senses, somatic motor control and higher cortical functions. Clinical correlations and therapies are discussed to illustrate the importance of understanding the basis of these functions of the nervous system.

NPSC 512P. Physiology (5) Spring. This course is designed specifically for dental students who have completed courses in biochemistry, histology, gross anatomy and neuroscience at the level appropriate for the DDS degree. Building upon this foundation, the physiology course prepares the developing clinician for courses in pharmacology, pathology, diagnosis, treatment planning and management of the medically compromised patient. An in-depth knowledge of normal function of major organ systems including cardiovascular, renal, respiratory, gastrointestinal and endocrine systems is our goal.

NPSC 518A. Gross Anatomy (7) Fall/Spring. The course in human anatomy is devoted to the study of the structure and function of the body using a regional approach with an emphasis on functional and clinical relevance. It includes the study of the organs and muscles with their relationships, arterial supply, venous and lymphatic drainage, and innervation. Principles of body structure and function are studied with particular emphasis on the head and neck and major organ systems. A strong effort is made to correlate anatomy with other courses in the basic and clinical sciences of the dental curriculum.

NPSC 518C. Clinical Research Conferences (1) Fall/Spring. This biomedical science course encourages the development of life-long learning skills and habits including use of the medical dictionary, the professional literature, health sciences library, and quality internet sites when researching biomedical and clinical questions. This course provides small group, student-centered learning that is supportive of Year I dental student presentations and discussions as an alternative method of learning (compared to the traditional faculty-centered lecture format).

NPSC 521A.  Neuroscience of Pain (2) Fall. This course instructs students on the anatomy, physiology and pharmacology underlying pain and analgesia.  The first half of the course provides a fundamental understanding of the neurobiology of pain processing and analgesic mechanisms. The second half of the course addresses subject matter specific to pain and analgesia in the dental clinic.  Students participate in Translational Research Conferences that relate basic science principles to clinical practice.

NPSC 521P. Pharmacology (5) Spring. The first phase of instruction in pharmacology includes a thorough study of the basic concepts and principles of pharmacology. Emphasis is placed on the mechanisms of action, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of drugs; therapeutic indications; common adverse reactions; and drug interactions.   All important classes of drugs used in dentistry and medicine are covered in sufficient detail to provide the student with an excellent preparation for entry into the clinic and for a second phase of training that teaches oral therapeutics, drug interactions, and pain and anxiety control through the participation in the Conjoint Sciences program and in various selective courses.

NPSC 532P. Dental Pharmacotherapeutics (1) Fall. This clinically-oriented dental pharmacology course provides updated information for Year IV students.

NPSC 551 and 552. Research Clerkship I and II (1-10 Fall/1-10 Spring).   This elective clerkship is intended to provide students an opportunity to conduct research in biomedical sciences under the guidance of a faculty mentor.  Selection of this clerkship requires mutual agreement between the interested student and BMS faculty and is subject to approval by the department.

ODSC 511C. Cell and Molecular Biology (3) Fall.  Fundamental and advanced concepts in modern cellular biology, molecular biology and genetics are presented. This is a cross-departmental course that prepares students for the other biomedical science courses in the curriculum and places an emphasis on molecular and human genetics.  Topics covered include cellular structure and the roles of cell membranes in transport and signaling, replication and expression of genetic information, molecular biological technologies including genomics and proteomics, and principals of human genetics including the genetics of cancer, genetic tests and gene therapy.

ODSC 511V. Nutrition (1) Fall.  This course provides students with basic understanding of the principles of biochemistry and molecular biology. Nutritional guidelines for optimum human health at all stages of life, including dietary reference intakes (DRI), energy requirements and metabolism, and acceptable macronutrient distribution ranges are discussed. Other topics include the essential chemical structure, biochemistry, and metabolic functions of the macro- and micro-nutrients as well as some important non-nutrient components of foods, regulation of gene expression by specific nutrients, drug-nutrient interactions, nutritional immunology, brief review of impact of nutrition of oral health, and assessment of methods of nutritional status.

OHCS 511. Perspectives of Oral Health Care Services (1) Fall.  This lecture course introduces Year I undergraduate dental students to the dental profession.  Students are exposed to 1) concepts of health, illness, and prevention; 2) the oral health care team of professionals and paraprofessionals; 3) established and emerging modes of oral health care delivery; 4) oral health care needs, demands, and utilization; 5) dental public health; 6) the role of government in dentistry; 7) dentistry from an international and global perspective; 8) oral health promotion; and 9) health policy.       

OMED 521. Oral Medicine (2.5)  Fall. This course is designed to aid the student in evaluating the medical, psychological, physical and social status of new and returning patients. As such the student learns to interview and examine patients, analyze these data and determine the need for medical consultation as well as determine the need for additional diagnostic testing. The student has the opportunity to learn physical examination techniques appropriate for the diagnosis of soft and hard tissue pathology other than caries and the periodontal diseases. The course includes discussions of patient confidentiality, infectious hazard control and professional communication.

OMED 551 and OMED 552. Oral Medicine Clerkship I and II (8 Fall/8 Spring).  General  Requirements:  Students must have satisfactory progress in all areas toward completion of graduation requirements, and interest in management of patients with oral diseases. 

These elective courses provide selected senior students with clinical and laboratory/research opportunities.  Clinical:  Gain advanced clinical experience in the oral care of cancer patients (Greenebaum Cancer Center), diagnosis and management of oral lesions in the Oral Medicine clinic, and experiences at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center.  Laboratory: Participate in research related to the management of medically compromised patients. 

OMIC 512. Oral Microbiology (1) Spring. This course is designed for pre-doctoral dental students.  Course content is directed toward conceptual and practical aspects of oral microbiology, especially those encountered in clinical situations, i.e., pathogenesis of microbial diseases affecting the mouth. Topics include:  1) nature of oral biofilms; 2) dental caries; 3) pulpal and periapical infections; 4) periodontal infections; 5) oral antimicrobial agents and microbial resistance; 6) viral infections affecting the mouth; 7) oral yeast infections; and 8) oral malodor.

OPAT 528. Oral Pathology (3) Fall Spring.  Oral Pathology builds upon the basic sciences and general pathology. It includes a study of oral disorders and systemic disorders that cause changes in the head and neck. This is the clinical extension of general pathology.

ORTH 522. Orthodontics (1) Spring. This course provides the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize, analyze and document an established or developing malocclusion.  Didactic and laboratory exercises provide a strong foundation for space maintenance and the delivery of limited orthodontic treatment. Specific laboratory projects include performing cephalometric and space analyses, fitting orthodontic bands and positioning and cementing brackets, fabricating a lingual arch and Hawley appliance. This course, in conjunction with the growth and development component of Conjoint Sciences, prepares the student for the clinical years.

ORTH 538. Orthodontics (2) Fall/Spring. This course includes comprehensive lecture, laboratory and clinical components. Lectures include clinical applications of growth and development, diagnosis and treatment planning, bi-mechanics of tooth movement, orthodontics materials as a fundamental underpinning for assessing and treating as part of comprehensive care. Students learn a variety of techniques for space and habit management, and limited corrective orthodontic procedures adjunctive to general practice. These are reinforced in a hands-on laboratory in which students correct tipped molars, minor crowding and spacing. Students are introduced to the basic concepts of management of complex malocclusions and craniofacial deformities and learn to assess case difficulty. In the clinic students provide orthodontic consultations on all pediatric patients and have an opportunity to treat patients requiring limited orthodontic correction through rotations in a clinic dedicated to that purpose. Students also rotate in the postgraduate clinic to gain familiarity with comprehensive orthodontic treatment. A clinical evaluation competency is required.

ORTH 548. Orthodontics (2) Fall/Spring. Students continue to provide orthodontic treatment as part of an adult and child patient’s comprehensive dental care through required orthodontic consultations and clinical rotations. A clerkship experience is offered in orthodontics as well as a selective.

ORTH 551 and ORTH 552. Orthodontics Clerkship I and II (2 Fall/3 Spring). General Requirements:  Grade point average > 3.2 and a sincere desire to know more about orthodontics and/or pursuing a career in clinical and/or academic orthodontics. Selected Year IV students are expected to participate in both fall and spring semesters. 

Experiences include didactic seminars; clinical patient treatment; extramural and intramural rotations; postgraduate rotation; research.  Students are exposed to the biomechanics of tooth movement, laboratory procedures including appliance construction and organizational dentistry. They participate in diagnosis and treatment planning via case presentations, and end the year with an orthodontic visit and celebratory dinner.

PEDS 522. Pediatric Dentistry II (1) Spring. This course introduces the dental student to the field of pediatric and adolescent dentistry.  The course includes lectures on caries prevention, patient examination, data collection in clinic, rubber dam placement, and restorations.  A laboratory component includes preparations in primary teeth for amalgam and composite restoration and for stainless steel crowns.  Students apply sealants fluoride varnish and rubber dams in a preclinic session.

PEDS 539. Pediatric Dentistry Elective (3 Fall/3 Spring).  Selected Year III students attend lunch time seminars, see patients in the Pediatric Dentistry clinic, attend selected department meetings, and participate in community activities.

PEDS 551 and PEDS 552. Pediatric Dentistry Clerkship I and II (7 Fall/7 Spring). General Requirements:  Completion of Year III requirements, above average clinical activity, and strong interest in pediatric dentistry. Selected students are expected to participate in both fall and spring semesters. 

The clerkship includes advanced clinical experiences (challenging healthy and handicapped patients); operating room experience; graduate seminars; preclinical teaching; case presentation; independent project.

PERI 511. Basic Science of Periodontal Disease  (1) Fall.  Predoctoral students in their first year are introduced to the anatomy and histology of the healthy periodontium. The course provides an overview of the clinical discipline of periodontics and its impact on systemic health.  Didactic material forms a critical foundation for PERI 512 and is designed to prepare students to begin supervised periodontal maintenance visits on patients.

PERI 518A. Periodontal Assessment & Instrumentation (1) Fall/Spring.  This course prepares the student for the treatment of a recall patient.  The student learns basic skills for periodontal assessment and instrumentation for the treatment of gingivitis.  Pre-clinical simulation and clinical exercises prepare the student for the use of a dental mirror, probe, scalers, and the skills required to perform prophylaxis.

PERI 528. Periodontics (2) Fall/Spring.  This course reinforces material presented in PERI 518 and forms the foundation for patient treatment in periodontics.  The course includes reinforcement of clinical skills introduced in PERI 518. Students treat classmates initally and later treat two periodontal maintenance patients.  The following topics are taught in the clinical setting:  periodontal data collecton; plaque control instructions; periodontal instrumentation; infection control; polishing; and topical fluoride application.  Oral cancer screening examinations are performed.  Emphasis is placed on microbiology, immunology, diagnosis and treatment planning of periodontal diseases.

PERI 538. Periodontics (10*) Fall/Spring. Students have didactic exposure to advanced periodontal procedures, including evidence-based therapy, impact of periodontal disease in the medically compromised patient, occlusal therapy, osseous grafts and guided tissue regeneration, periodontal plastic surgery, periodontal esthetic management and assessment of disease activity.  Clinical activity involves the diagnosis and non-surgical periodontal management of mild/moderate adult periodontitis.   Observation of periodontal surgeries is also anticipated.

PERI 548. Periodontics (10*) Fall/Spring. Students continue to monitor and manage the periodontal status of their comprehensive patient care population. Experiences include assessment of initial therapy performed and determination of parameters for periodontal surgery.  Surgical observations of their patients and complex post-graduate cases are anticipated prior to performing a periodontal surgery.   Each student performs a simple periodontal flap surgery.  Another focus for this course is the co-therapy program with the senior dental hygiene students.  This program mimics the private practice setting allowing interaction with dental hygiene students as co-therapists for the management of the initial therapy of two periodontitis cases.

PRAC 542.  Practice Management (.5) Spring.  This seminar series provides dental students with many of the necessary skills neded to effectively respond to a fast-changing professional environment.  The course is a three-session seminar designed to enhance practice administration learning by focusing on the transition from dental school to dental practice.  The sessions have been crafted and integrated to provide students with substantive knowledge and material in the topics of business law, accounting, financial record-keeping, business planning, and practice transitions. 

PROF 518. Profession/Professionalism I (3) Fall/Spring.  Students learn foundational skills needed for entry into the dental profession, including the history and future of dentistry, health communication, and professional and ethical behavior. Topics also include an introduction to dentistry whereby students are exposed to the breadth and scope of careers in dentistry and obtain technical training in skills needed to function in the clinic, including: basic life support, patient confidentiality, and infection control. Didactic and interactive sessions will be reinforced with experiences as part of a clinic team.

PROF 538. Profession/Professionalism III (2) Fall/Spring.  Students are recertified for BLS/CPR and receive instruction in dentistry and the law. In small group seminars, students discuss ethical dilemmas.  They are required to achieve minimum attendance requirements, attend assigned clinical sessions and/or arrange for coverage of clinical assignments, if necessary.  In academic and clinical settings students are expected to behave in a respectful, professional manner in their interactions with peers, patients, faculty and staff.

PROS 551 and PROS 552. Prosthodontics Clerkship I and II (10 Fall/10 Spring). General Requirements: Academic performance; demonstrated interest and ability in prosthodontics; interest and motivation in esthetic dentistry; recommendation of discipline supervisor. Selected students are expected to participate in both fall and spring semesters.

The clerkship includes demonstrations, seminars and clinic.  The student is introduced to multiple fixed and removable prosthodontic procedures and techniques.  Esthetic techniques including bonding all ceramic crowns, porcelain laminates, microabrasian and vital bleaching. There is an emphasis on esthetic evaluation.  Implant restorations are treatment planned, surgery observed, and restorations completed.

RADI 518. Radiology (1.5) Fall/Spring.  This preclinical course presents an overview of methods and technology used to image the oral and maxillofacial region. The lectures cover the following topics: an introduction to intraoral radiographic techniques; methods of capturing the image; radiation physics principles of radiation safety; biologic effects of ionizing radiation; and quality assurance.

RADI 528. Radiology II (1.5) Fall/Spring. The second year course in radiology presents an overview of methods and technology used to image and diagnose the oral and maxillofacial region. Lecture topics include principles of radiographic interpretation; evaluating the quality of images; imaging errors, appropriate viewing conditions, and the value of various radiographic examinations. Interpretive topics encompass developmental and environmental influences on the teeth and supporting structures, dental caries, periodontal disease, pulpal/periapical inflammation. The radiographic appearances of benign, malignant and traumatic disease of the oral and maxillofacial structures are presented.

RADI 538. Radiology III (2) Fall/Spring. Developing clinicians apply principles of imaging and radiation safety toward selecting and taking the most appropriate radiographic examination to make accurate diagnoses and formulate a patient-centered treatment plan. The principles of radiographic interpretation, image quality, appropriate viewing conditions, and the value of alternative radiographic views are emphasized. Students become proficient in intraoral and panoramic radiographic technique and in interpretive topics including developmental and environmental influences on the teeth and supporting structures, dental caries, periodontal disease and pulpal/periapical inflammation. Students make clinical judgments and effectively apply problem-solving skills in a clinical environment with patient contact. They explain to dental patients the principles of radiation safety, imaging technique and radiographic findings at the level appropriate for a knowledgeable healthcare professional.

RADI 548. Radiology IV (1) Fall/Spring. This course is the application of radiographic technique and interpretation in a clinical environment.   Developing clinicians refine their skills while functioning as leaders in a clinical team applying principles of imaging and radiation safety toward selecting and taking the most appropriate radiographic examination to make accurate diagnoses and formulate a patient-centered treatment plan.  Year IV students model the principles of radiographic interpretation, image quality, appropriate viewing conditions and the value of alternative radiographic views while directing Year II students in intraoral and panoramic radiographic technique and in interpretive topics.

REST 528. Fixed Prosthodontics (7) Fall/Spring. The course establishes a basic understanding of fixed partial prosthodontics and develops the skills necessary to complete the treatment and laboratory procedures with predictable, consistent success.  Principles involved in making both individual restorations and fixed partial dentures are taught.  The course includes different types of preparations for teeth, the fabrication of temporary restorations, impression techniques, the construction of working casts of these preparations, and the fabrication of single restorations and fixed partial dentures.

REST 528A. Operative Dentistry I (1) Fall/Spring.  Students receive didactic and clinical instruction in single tooth restorations. This course includes diagnosis, decision-making and treatment planning on single tooth restorations and the clinical placement of these restorative materials. Esthetics and esthetic bonding is also part of this course.

REST 529A. Treatment and Management of the Edentulous Patient (3) Fall. The course is an introduction to the management of the edentulous patient.  Topics include impression making, jaw relations, denture occlusion, immediate dentures and an introduction to dental implants. The format includes lectures, briefings, and laboratory simulations.

REST 529B. Removable Prosthodontics (3) Spring. The course provides didactic and laboratory instruction in the fabrication of removable partial denture prostheses.  Course material includes classification and biomechanics, RPD components, surveying, design, mouth preparation, occlusion, master casts and laboratory work authorizations.

REST 538A. Operative Dentistry (6*) Fall/Spring. The course in operative dentistry instructs students in the concepts of prevention, diagnosis, treatment planning and treatment for pathologies in teeth.   Lecture format and online instruction include case studies of these conditions and the dental materials and techniques used to treat these conditions.   One section of the course provides the current concepts in esthetic treatment with bleaching and bonded restorations for anterior and posterior teeth.  Didactic instruction is then applied in clinical treatment of patients.  Competencies in aspects of operative dentistry, diagnosis, and treatment are assessed with patient based examinations.

REST 538B. Fixed Prosthodontics (6*) Fall/Spring. This course has both didactic and clinical components.  The didactic portion is a continuation of REST 528 with emphasis on clinical application.  In the clinical portion, students fabricate crowns, fixed partial dentures and other fixed prosthesis.

REST 538C. Removable Prosthodontics (7*) Fall/Spring. The didactic portion of this course is a continuation of REST 529A and REST 529B with emphasis on clinical application.  In the clinical portion, students fabricate complete dentures and partial dentures and other removable prosthesis.

REST 548A. Operative Dentistry (5*) Fall/Spring.  This year IV course provides instruction in developing the skills and concepts previously learned.  On a selected basis, students work in more advanced clinical techniques in esthetic and operative dentistry.   Online materials are available to prepare students for these more advanced clinical techniques.  Didactic instruction from the third year course and online course materials are applied in clinical treatment of patients.  Competencies in aspects of operative dentistry, diagnosis, and treatment are assessed with patient based examinations.

REST 548B. Fixed Prosthodontics (10*) Fall/Spring. This Year IV course is a continuation of Year III Fixed Prosthodontics where students provide comprehensive care in the general practice clinics. Students not only complete single tooth crowns, but restore edentulous spans with either fixed partial dentures or single tooth implants. Competency is assessed with both simulation and patient based examinations.

REST 548C. Removable Prosthodontics (8*) Fall/Spring.  This year IV course is a continuation of Year III Removable Prosthodontics where students provide comprehensive care in the general practice clinics. Students fabricate complete dentures, removable partial dentures and interim dentures. Competency is assessed with a patient based examination.

SPTC 532. Special Patient Care (1) Spring. Lectures provide instruction on dental management of the patient with special needs.

SPTC 551 and 552. Special Patient Clerkship I and II (10 Fall/10 Spring).  General Requirements:  Demonstrated interest in treating handicapped patients; superior clinical skills; above average academic performance.  Selected students are expected to participate in both fall and spring semesters.

The clerkship course includes an individually tailored clinical program providing care for special patients; significant surgery, prosthetics, and conscious sedation experiences available. A seminar series on related topics is also included.

TMDC 551 and 552. TMD Clerkship I and II (4 Fall/4 Spring).  General Requirements:  No clinical deficiencies; must be in the top one-half of the class academically; special interest in TMD (temporomandibular dysfunction) with some limited experience.

These elective courses provide selected students with an opportunity to work in the TMD clinic.  TMD clerks treat and diagnose TMD patients and assist other students with their TMD patients.

TXPL 528. Treatment Planning II (1) Spring.  Course topics include charting and documentation as related to periodontal disease, caries risk, esthetics, radiographic evaluation, decision making, and sequence of treatment.

TXPL 538. Treatment Planning III (6) Fall/Spring.  This course includes a didactic portion and a clinical portion.  Course topics include more complex dental and medical cases, treatment of urgent patient needs, and sequencing of complex treatment plans. The course covers work-ups, preparation, and presentation of oral diagnostic findings, prosthodontic aspects, and periodontal aspects of treatment plans.

TXPL 548. Treatment Planning IV (2) Fall/Spring.  This course is a continuation of clinical treatment planning described in DCJS 538T.

TXPL 551 and TXPL 552. Treatment Planning Clerkship I and II (6 Fall/6 Spring).  Students in this program participate in scheduled seminars and provide access to care by screening and treatment planning pregnant patients in a funded program. 

*Credits are reduced for students in General Practice Simulation clinics.
Curriculum requirements are subject to change without prior notice.

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