This course provides foundational knowledge for those interested in developing a better understanding of basic dental terminology. The course will define and explore clinical and non-clinical terms commonly used in endodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics, restorative dentistry, dental radiography, and dental practice administration.
The course is organized by specialty so participants may personalize their experience and focus their learning as needed. Identifying and applying these terms will help the learner to become a better communicator and more effective oral healthcare team member, to prepare for future studies, and to act as a more informed oral health advocate for themselves or others.
Welcome to Module 1: Basic Oral Structures and Tooth Terminology. This introductory module offers foundational material that will benefit your learning and set you up for success through the rest of the course. We will begin by exploring basic oral structures, common tooth terminology, and related key terms and functions. Let's get started!
What's included
8 readings1 assignment
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8 readings•Total 80 minutes
Course Overview•10 minutes
Overview of the Mouth•10 minutes
Anatomy of the Tooth•10 minutes
Types of Teeth•10 minutes
Dentition and Eruption•10 minutes
Tooth Surfaces and Landmarks•10 minutes
Describing and Numbering Teeth•10 minutes
Resources and References•10 minutes
1 assignment•Total 10 minutes
Module 1 Quiz•10 minutes
Module 2: Terminology in Dental Radiography
Module 2•1 hour to complete
Module details
This module will review essential terminology surrounding dental x-rays. Dental x-rays, also known as dental radiographs, serve as vital diagnostic tools, revealing concealed dental structures, potential masses, bone density changes, and cavities. With their indispensable role in clinical dentistry, radiographic examinations are routinely conducted on patients. As such, understanding the specifics of these images is fundamental for clinicians in making accurate diagnoses.
What's included
5 readings1 assignment
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5 readings•Total 50 minutes
X-Rays: Definitions, Uses, and Equipment•10 minutes
Radiation, Exposures, and Protection•10 minutes
Additional Radiographic Tools and Techniques•10 minutes
Diagnostic Qualities for Dental Radiographs•10 minutes
Resources and References•10 minutes
1 assignment•Total 10 minutes
Module 2 Quiz•10 minutes
Module 3: Terminology in Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Module 3•2 hours to complete
Module details
In this module, we'll explore the terminology associated with restorative dentistry, which involves repairing or replacing teeth to enhance oral health and chewing function. Additionally, we'll delve into terminology related to endodontics, a dental specialty focusing on the treatment of dental pulp and root-related issues.
What's included
12 readings1 assignment
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12 readings•Total 120 minutes
What Is Dental Restoration and When Is It Needed?•10 minutes
This module will explore the terminology of prosthodontics, a dental specialty focused on creating artificial teeth to replace missing or damaged ones. Prosthodontics involves crafting crowns, bridges, dentures, and other restorative treatments. Moreover, we will gain insights into the techniques and approaches employed to rehabilitate and safeguard facial and oral structures.
What's included
7 readings1 assignment
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7 readings•Total 70 minutes
Prosthodontics and Subspecialties•10 minutes
Fixed Prosthetic Appliances•10 minutes
Removable Prosthetic Appliances•10 minutes
Procedures and Methods Used•10 minutes
Preparation of the Teeth and Site•10 minutes
Impression Procedures•10 minutes
Resources and References•10 minutes
1 assignment•Total 10 minutes
Module 4 Quiz•10 minutes
Module 5: Terminology in Periodontics
Module 5•1 hour to complete
Module details
In this module, we'll explore the terminology of periodontics, a dental specialty centered on the health of the gums, bone, and supporting tissues around teeth. We will review treatment methods and instruments that periodontists use to prevent, diagnose, and treat gum diseases and related conditions.
What's included
5 readings1 assignment
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5 readings•Total 50 minutes
Anatomy of the Periodontium•10 minutes
Etiology and Symptoms of Periodontal Diseases•10 minutes
Periodontal Treatment Methods•10 minutes
Instrumentation for Periodontics•10 minutes
Resources and References•10 minutes
1 assignment•Total 10 minutes
Module 5 Quiz•10 minutes
Module 6: Terminology in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Module 6•2 hours to complete
Module details
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) is a dental specialty focusing on conditions in the head, neck, face, and oral region. In this module, we will take a look at the surgical procedures and specialized instruments used by surgeons trained in exodontia and implantology to provide comprehensive care for various oral and maxillofacial issues.
What's included
9 readings1 assignment
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9 readings•Total 90 minutes
Introduction to Oral Surgery, Implantology, and Exodontia•10 minutes
Instrumentation for Oral Surgery•10 minutes
Soft Tissue Surgery and Disease•10 minutes
Minor Bone Surgery•10 minutes
Maxillofacial Surgery and Fracture Repair•10 minutes
TMJ Dysfunction and Related Oral Surgery•10 minutes
Oral Surgery in Implantology•10 minutes
Oral Surgery in Aesthetic Dentistry•10 minutes
Resources and References•10 minutes
1 assignment•Total 10 minutes
Module 6 Quiz•10 minutes
Module 7: Terminology in Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
Module 7•2 hours to complete
Module details
Pediatric dentistry focuses on providing dental care for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special healthcare needs, emphasizing oral health from infancy through adolescence. In this module, we will learn about the techniques that pediatric dentists, or pedodontists, use to promote oral health and cultivate positive dental habits in children. Additionally, we will review the work of orthodontists who are concerned with diagnosing, supervising, guiding, and correcting malocclusions.
What's included
9 readings1 assignment
Show info about module content
9 readings•Total 90 minutes
Development and Growth Concerns of Pediatric Dentition•10 minutes
Environmental Concerns•10 minutes
Developmental Tissue and Bone Problems•10 minutes
Tumor and Cyst Growth•10 minutes
Maintenance, Preservation, and Restoration of the Pediatric Dentition•10 minutes
Behavioral Management and Pediatric Sedation•10 minutes
Overview of Orthodontics, Dental Malocclusion, and Bites•10 minutes
Types and Methods of Orthodontic Treatment•10 minutes
Resources and References•10 minutes
1 assignment•Total 10 minutes
Module 7 Quiz•10 minutes
Module 8: Terminology in Dental Practice Administration
Module 8•1 hour to complete
Module details
In this module, we will explore dental practice administration and gain an understanding of specialized terminology crucial for efficient operations, patient care, and effective communication. Topics covered will include managing patient records, navigating insurance processes, optimizing office workflows, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Becoming fluent in patient records, insurance terminology, and communication protocols will help create an environment that prioritizes efficiency and patient satisfaction.
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this training was informative and helpful in understanding abuse reporting requirements.
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Very easy to read and follow. Some questions on exams used abbreviations for covered materials that made it difficult to answer correctly because I wasn’t told to remember the acronyms.
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