Module Directory

This module introduces students to biological and psycho-social science knowledge base that underpins the practice of DCPs, in particular anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, psychology, histology, cytology and microbiology of the oral cavity and associated structures, an understanding of common oral diseases.

The aims of this module are:

• To provide an understanding of oral health and common diseases. 


• To outline the unique blend of medical, biological and social science knowledge base that underpins the practice of DCPs.


• To highlight the similarities and difference between people as a basis for developing person centred care


• To promote an understanding of the person as an individual and the interplay between the bio-psycho-social functions.


• To explore the genetic and environmental influences on the well-being of an individual.

By the end of the module, students will be expected to:

1. Demonstrate understanding of oral physiology and craniofacial, oral and dental anatomy relevant to dental practice.


2. Discuss the basic biological and psychosocial requirements for life


3. Demonstrate critical understanding of homeostasis and the systems that sustain life. 


4. Citing psychological theories of perception, explain individual differences in their attitude towards dental treatment.  


5. Demonstrate understanding of the development and growth of the face and occlusion, the extent of normal variation in the form and function of both the hard and soft tissues of the mouth and face, and particularly the ways in which such variation produces differences in occlusion.


6. Outline the epidemiology, aetiology, pathology, progression and presentation of dental caries and periodontal disease.


7. Demonstrate an understanding of BLS. Be able to recognise a medical emergency and know their role in the event of this happening and ensure they are sufficiently trained and competent to carry out that role.


8. Understand and discuss the importance of achieving a healthy oral environment prior to restoration and/or replacement of teeth


9. Explain the risks, benefits, complications of and contra-indications to all interventions (non-surgical and surgical)


10. Demonstrate understanding of the science that underpins the dental biomaterials and equipment used by the dentist and dental hygienist, and the limitations of such dental materials.


11. Be able to select and manipulate dental biomaterials commonly used by the dentist and dental hygienist, taking appropriate safety precaution regarding those biomaterials.


12. Discuss the relevance of culture and protected characteristics to dental practice and suggest ways of transcending cultural boundaries in the delivery of dental care.


13. Describe the genetic and environmental influences on health and well-being.


14. Based on the understanding of psychosocial theories, employ appropriate approaches to communicate and engage individuals, including children, in their oral care and disease prevention.


15. Demonstrate understanding of the normal growth and development of children.


16. Demonstrate understanding of the body’s defence mechanisms: inflammation, immunity, immunology and healing.


17. Explain how diet and nutritional status can influence oral and general health and how to provide appropriate advice and support


18. Explain the potential routes of transmission of infectious agents in dental practice, mechanisms for the prevention of infection, the scientific principles of decontamination and disinfection and their relevance to health and safety.


19. Identify where medicines may cause adverse effects in patients and describe appropriate actions to manage and report

Indicative syllabus

• The role of the dental hygienist in the UK, Scope of practice and professional responsibility


• The general practice environment; Professional practice and business culture;


• Health and safety in a general practice environment.


• Decontamination and disinfection in dental practice; Handwashing


• Interpreting a treatment plan to provided chairside support; Basic life support (BLS)


• Development of the face and early oral development and age changes.


• Dental biomaterials


• The skull


• Muscles and nerves of the head and neck


• Soft tissues of the oral cavity


• Salivary glands, blood vessels and lymphatic drainage of the head and neck


• The dentitions


• Occlusion and malocclusion


• Eruption and resorption theories


• Tissues of the periodontium in health and disease


• Plaque Biofilm


• Introduction to gingivitis and periodontitis


• Preventative measures and risk assessments in periodontal disease


• Basic Periodontal Examination


• Periodontal assessment


• Introduction to the phases of treatment and the perio-restorative interface


• Pain and pain control


• Introduction to dental caries and risk assessment and preventative measures for caries, including fluoride.


• Calculus formation and detection methods; Extrinsic and intrinsic staining


• Introduction to psychology


• Concepts and theories of needs


• Levels of structural organisation, physiological needs and homeostatic control


• Introduction to biochemistry


• Personal culture, health beliefs & interpersonal communication


• Introduction to microbiology and infection


• Haematology, immunology, defence and immunity


• The cardiovascular system


• Inflammation and allergy


• Microbiology of the oral cavity in health and disease


• The respiratory system


• The host response in gingival and periodontal diseases


• The digestive system


• The endocrine system


• Healing


• The nervous system


• The musculoskeletal and integumentary systems


• Managing fear and anxiety in the clinical environment


• The excretory and reproductive systems


• Integrating the systems: Vital signs and medical emergencies


• The life cycle: Growth, development and ageing


• Recognising the sick patient

This module will be delivered via:

• Lectures (130 hours) mix of classroom based and online delivey

Independent study: Regular guided learning tasks will be set for students using the Moodle virtual learning platform.