James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2020

DS2005 - Pathophysiology and Therapeutics for Dentistry

Subject Description

This subject examines the pathological basis of oral disease, the oral signs of systemic disease, and the pharmacological management of the dental patient. In addition, it also examines the significant relationship between oral and systemic health, and the need for a holistic approach to managing the dental patient. The subject also lays the foundations for managing the special needs dental patient. The subject reviews the main systemic conditions that impact on oral health, such as diabetes, and examines the pathophysiological basis for that relationship. There is also a focus on how poor oral health can be a significant risk factor in the development of systemic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease. The main medications used to manage systemic conditions are examined, and the potential for some commonly prescribed medications, such as those for asthma and depression, to negatively impact on oral health is addressed. The module also introduces the students to the dentist as a prescriber, and addresses the key issues associated with drug prescribing, and dental prescription writing. There is a focus on the pharmacological basis of therapeutics, particularly the aspects of clinical pharmacology pertinent to dental practice. There is a major focus on analgesia, local and general anaesthesia, antibiotic therapy and anxiolytic agents. In particular, the potential for drug-drug interactions, and how drugs prescribed for other conditions may impact on the management of the dental patient, is addressed. The module also includes a basic overview of pharmacokinetics, and toxicological issues that are pertinent to dental practice. Students will be introduced to dental radiography.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the pathophysiological basis of oral disease, as well as how systemic disorders may impact on oral health
• Understand how oral disease, in particular infectious and inflammatory disorders, can impact on systemic health
• Describe the pharmacological actions of drugs commonly encountered in dental care, and discuss the potential for unwanted effects and drug-drug interactions with these agents
• Understand the principles and anatomical considerations for the administration of local anaesthesia in clinical dental practice
• Apply knowledge of a patient's medical condition to determine the type of dental treatment that will be provided
• Apply an understanding of the basic concepts in dental radiography

Subject Assessment

• Invigilated > Quizzes or tests - (30%)
• Non-Invigilated > Assignments - (20%)
• Invigilated > End of semester exam - (50%)

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Satisfactory attendance is required at (pre)clinical placements. Satisfactory academic and professional standard, as described in the College Assessment Guidelines, must be achieved in order to progress

Corequisites:  DS2004

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  DS2101 DS2102

Availabilities