This course presents a structured study of the discipline of periodontics with a focus on the biological, behavioral, and clinical aspects of periodontal diseases. Topics include normal vs. diseased periodontal structures, etiology, risk factors, classification, and epidemiology. Students will apply periodontal assessment techniques leading to the development of appropriate strategies for planning preventative care, initial treatment, and maintenance procedures for periodontal diseases. Students are introduced to evidence-based decision making as they apply course content to simulated cases. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Course Outcomes
- Examine the clinical and histologic anatomic structures of the periodontium in both health and disease.
- Identify the various risk factors for periodontal diseases as well as the relationship of periodontal diseases to other systemic diseases.
- Explain the American Academy of Periodontology classification system of periodontal diseases.
- Discuss the evidence-based approach to treatment planning and its advantages.
- Discuss the key concepts of effective periodontal maintenance care in the ongoing treatment of inflammatory periodontal diseases.