Fundamentals of Cariology

Offered by HKUx

Course Description

Dive into the fascinating world of dental health with the "Fundamentals of Cariology" course, offered by HKUx. This comprehensive 4-week program is designed to equip you with essential knowledge and skills in understanding, diagnosing, preventing, and managing dental caries. Led by a dynamic team of 15 dental professionals and researchers from around the globe, including HKU's Prof. Chun-Hung CHU and Prof. Ollie Yiru YU, this course offers a unique opportunity to explore the intricate processes involved in tooth decay and its management.

What students will learn

  • Etiology and formation of dental caries
  • Complex interactions between oral microorganisms, host factors, and dietary habits
  • Diagnostic tools and techniques for identifying dental caries
  • Prevention strategies for maintaining optimal oral health
  • Evidence-based techniques for combating tooth decay
  • Effective communication strategies for patient education
  • Application of biomaterials and innovative approaches in caries management

Pre-requisites

No prerequisites are required for this intermediate-level course. It is suitable for dental professionals looking to expand their knowledge in cariology and individuals passionate about oral health.

Course Coverage

  • Introduction to biochemistry and histopathology of dental caries
  • Aetiology and microbiology of dental caries
  • Interaction between saliva and dental caries
  • Classification and index of dental caries
  • Detecting techniques for dental caries
  • Caries risk assessment
  • In-depth exploration of ICDAS & ICCMS
  • Medical model for caries management
  • Non-restorative & restorative management of dental caries
  • Dental public health related to cariology
  • Cariology research
  • Initiatives for caries management

Who this course is for

  • Dental professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge in cariology
  • Students pursuing careers in dentistry or oral health
  • Individuals passionate about oral health and dental care
  • Healthcare providers interested in expanding their understanding of dental caries
  • Researchers in the field of oral health and dentistry

Real-world Applications

  • Dental practitioners can improve their diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning for patients with dental caries.
  • Oral health educators can develop more effective patient education programs.
  • Public health professionals can design and implement community-based oral health initiatives.
  • Researchers can contribute to the advancement of cariology through evidence-based studies.
  • Individuals can apply preventive strategies to maintain their own oral health and that of their families.

Syllabus

Week 1 / Module 1 – Fundamentals of Cariology

  • Introduction to biochemistry & histopathology
  • Aetiology and microbiology of dental caries
  • Interaction with saliva

Week 2 / Module 2 – Caries Diagnosis and Risk Assessment

  • Classification and index of dental caries
  • Detecting techniques of dental caries
  • Caries risk assessment
  • In-depth exploration of ICDAS & ICCMS

Week 3 / Module 3 – Management of dental caries

  • Medical model for caries management
  • Non-restorative & Restorative management of dental caries

Week 4 / Module 4 – Evidence-based Practice for Caries Management

  • Dental public health related to cariology
  • Cariology research
  • Initiatives for caries management

By enrolling in this course, you'll gain a solid foundation in cariology, enabling you to make a positive impact on oral health. Whether you're a dental professional or simply passionate about dental health, this course offers valuable insights and practical knowledge to enhance your understanding of dental caries and its management.