Module Directory

This module introduces students to various oral diseases, their signs and symptoms, as well as their prevention, management and treatment planning.

The module features instructional sessions in oral health science and dental hygiene, covering theoretical aspects of managing oral diseases.

The aims of this module are:

• To develop appropriate skills for treating periodontal disease and recognise dental issues.


• To ensure students have an understanding of appropriate aftercare and treatment pathways.


• To enhance the knowledge base of students and enhance their clinical skills in preparation for becoming qualified Dental Hygienists at safe beginner level

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

1. Understand the aetiology, pathology, progression and presentation of periodontal diseases, and discuss their prognosis.


2. Identify the clinical presentation and management of the common diseases of the oral mucosa by describing and explaining the principles of diagnosis, prevention and treatment options and planning.


3. Explain general and systemic diseases and psychological conditions, and their relevance to oral health and impact on clinical treatment, patient compliance, self-care, and outcomes


4. Summarise and assess psychological and sociological concepts and theories of health, illness, behaviour change, and disease, along with their application in clinical practice.


5. Identify potential adverse effects of medications in patients and describe appropriate actions to manage and report them.


6. Conduct a periodontal examination and charting, and explain the significance of each part of the assessment process.


7. Evaluate all aspects of patient care, including treatment and management, including explanation into the risks, benefits, contraindications, and indications. Applying considerations of patient beliefs and values.


8. Deliver preventive oral care for patients with dental diseases, emphasising how long-term compliance impacts both oral and general health, particularly at the perio-restorative interface.


9. Employ appropriate anti-microbial therapy in the management of plaque related diseases


10. Recognise malignant and potentially malignant lesions and conditions of the oral mucosa and refer appropriately.


11. Discuss the function of surgical treatment in managing periodontal disease.


12. Demonstrate understanding of Peri-Implant diseases and their management.


13. Effectively liaise with Dentists and other members of the dental team about patients within their joint care, in cases where the patient's needs or not within your scope of capabilities.


14. Be competent at supragingival and subgingival PMPR, staining and calculus removal, using both powered and manual instrumentation, and stain removal and prophylaxis


15. Demonstrate longitudinal periodontal care from assessment, review, monitoring and planning future management.


16. Communicate effectively by spoken, written and electronic means with colleagues from dental and other healthcare professions in relation to direct patient care

Indicative syllabus

• The classification and management of periodontal diseases, emphasizing non-surgical therapy (NSPT) components such as assessments and treatment planning.


• It includes the importance of dental teams, evidence for adjuncts, and referral protocols.


• Key topics also cover tooth wear, caries prevention, and recognizing oral manifestations of systemic diseases and understanding tooth and salivary gland pathologies, along with radiographic principles, and soft tissue swellings.

This module will be delivered via:

• Lectures (180 hours)

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