DMD 1

• SDM GD 510: Comprehensive Preclinical General Dentistry
  This course introduces first year students to basic concepts, skills, and attitudes necessary for the successful practice of dentistry. Didactic instruction includes introductions to the following topics: the language of dentistry, infection prevention, diagnosis & treatment planning, interpretation of the medical history, bacterial plaque formation, etiology and prevention of both dental caries and periodontal disease, critical thinking, oral & maxillofacial surgery, pediatric dentistry, fixed and removable prosthodontics, dental implants, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and endodontics. Preclinical instruction is provided in the Simulation Learning Center using state of the art simulators and is focused on infection prevention, basic instrumentation skills, ergonomics, isolation techniques, general tooth preparation principles, simple amalgam restorations, and anterior and posterior composite resin restorations. There is also a Service Learning component where students are engaged in community service activities at grammar schools in the Boston area that are affiliated with BUGSDM.
• SDM MB 511: Molecular Genetics
  This course introduces the emerging science of molecular genetics. The course is designed to complement courses in microbiology, biochemistry, and immunology and to prepare the students to understand and assimilate knowledge being developed by researchers and the various implications for dental practice.
• SDM MD 510: Anatomical Sciences 1
  Anatomical Sciences I is the first in a series of two courses designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy. Anatomical Sciences I covers the topics of human microscopic anatomy (histology) and neuroanatomy. In the microscopic anatomy portion of Anatomical Sciences I, students will be introduced to various histological methods and the impact these methods have on the appearance of histological preparations. Students will also be exposed to a systematic analytical approach to tissue and organ identification, with an emphasis on structure and function relationship. In the neuroanatomy portion of Anatomical Sciences I, the structure and function of both the peripheral and central nervous systems will be emphasized. Students will engage in a detailed exploration of the various sensory and motor systems, including a comprehensive study of cranial nerves and their clinical relevance to the field of dentistry. Critical thinking and clinical problem solving are emphasized throughout the course using clinical case studies from the literature.
• SDM MD 511: Anatomical Sciences 2
  This course covers a wide range of topics in human gross anatomy that are relevant to the practice of dentistry. Specifically, lectures will provide in- depth details of the embryology of major organ systems, anatomy of the thorax, abdomen, upper extremity, neck, head and oral and nasal cavities. In addition, the structure, function and details of bones and joints of the body will be covered. In the lab portion of this course, we have the invaluable opportunity to use cadavers to directly observe the anatomical structures discussed in lecture.
• SDM MD 512: Biochemistry
  This course is designed to acquaint the student with the basic principles of modern biochemistry. The topics to be covered include an introduction to biochemistry and its importance to understanding oral health as well as proteins, enzymes, DNA, RNA and protein synthesis, sugar and lipid metabolism, hormones and second messengers and connective tissue biochemistry. In addition to the traditional lecture format, students participate in case-based presentations designed to integrate clinical cases with the material presented in class.
• SDM MD 514: Physiology
  This course presents the physiology of cells, tissues, organs, and integrated body functions, including student led discussion of the physiological basis of clinical conditions. An integrated approach is also taken to the endocrine system including extensive discussion of fuel metabolism and reproductive physiology. Hormonal aberrations and their end results are presented in clinical correlations by students.
• SDM MD 515: Microbiology & Immunology
  The overall goals of this course are to provide students with: (1) a foundation in medical microbiology, including the nomenclature, structure, physiology, genetics, mechanisms of pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations associated with microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites) that cause disease, and the role of the microbiome in health and disease; (2) an understanding of how the basic principles of microbiology are applied in the effective diagnosis, treatment and prevention of infectious diseases, and (3) a basic background in immunology including the functions and disorders of the immune system.
• SDM MD 520: General Pathology
  This course covers the fundamental concepts of modern pathology and explains how to apply the process of differential diagnosis in the major human diseases. Pathologic mechanisms and principles of most organs and systems of the body are discussed, with emphasis on those most relevant to oral health and care of dental patients. The course includes lectures by the School of Medicine Pathology faculty and Integrated Problem Sessions presented by students.
• SDM OB 511: Oral Biology I
  This course is a comprehensive consideration of the embryology, microscopic and macroscopic structure, and functions of the orofacial complex. Material from the other basic sciences is expanded and related to the oral cavity. Emphasis is on the normal state of oral health.
• SDM OD 510: Oral Diagnosis/Radiology I
  This web-based course is designed to introduce basic radiology concepts to pre- doctoral dental students. Students will gain knowledge of the basic concepts of how x-rays are created and interact, as well as a familiarity with dental radiographic techniques and radiographic intra oral and extra oral anatomy. This course includes training of students to analyze the biological effects of ionizing radiation.
• SDM PH 512: Professional Ethics Development
  Professional Ethics Development is designed to explore the personal and professional values of the dental student and the dental health professional. The course provides a historical and conceptual framework of dentistry, and presents the profession's code of ethics as well as explores some current ethical and legal issues affecting professional practice. The purpose of the course is to assist students in the transition from undergraduate school to professional school and ultimately into knowledgeable, skilled, and caring professionals. Students discuss the school's code of conduct and identify common values of the class, participate in case-based discussions and writing assignments to raise awareness about the personal and professional values involved in dental school and dental practice.
• SDM PH 517: Evidence-Based Dentistry
  The lecture component of this course is an introduction to assessing and evaluating published scientific and dental literature. Students learn to examine the general concepts in experimental design, scientific methodology, and the appropriateness of basic statistical methods used to evaluate the conclusions of studies. In the seminar component of the course, students meet in small groups led by faculty members who serve as facilitators. Published scientific evidence is used to help develop sound reasoning and critical thinking skills in students. Students analyze scientific literature and learn about general patterns of clinical judgment, critical thinking, decision-making, and application of scientific evidence into everyday practice.
• SDM PH 610: Applied Professional Experience (APEX)
  At the end of their first year, students participate in an 8-week internship at GSDM-approved private practices or community health centers. Through a combination of written assignments, seminars and experiential learning, students learn about practice management, patient communication, social determinants of health and oral health inequities. Students also explore the roles of the dental and health care team and the U.S. dental care delivery system, as well as perform a series of observational and hands-on activities that reinforce their knowledge and application of the production and evaluation of intraoral radiographs, patient evaluation, caries risk assessment, patient centered counseling and preventive dentistry.
• SDM RS 510: Dental Anatomy
  The lecture aspect of this course provides the student essential knowledge in the anatomical and morphological characteristics of teeth and their functional relationship to each other as well as to surrounding orofacial structures. Dental terminology is introduced and integrated throughout the course material. The practical component of the course allows the student to practically apply the knowledge obtained from the didactic portion of the course while developing psychomotor skills through the use and manipulation of dental materials. The clinical relevance of this subject matter is emphasized throughout all aspects of the course.