NVCC COLLEGE-WIDE COURSE CONTENT SUMMARY
DNH 215 - DENTAL MATERIALS (3 CR.)

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Studies the physical and chemical properties of the materials used in dentistry. Laboratory experiences emphasize proper manipulation of materials. Lecture 2 hours. Laboratory 3 hours. Total 5 hours per week.

GENERAL COURSE PURPOSE

To orient the dental hygiene student to the composition and use of dental material so that he/she has a working knowledge of a variety of materials and procedures used in the dental office and dental laboratory.

ENTRY LEVEL COMPETENCIES

Successful completion of three semesters of the Dental Hygiene Program.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to demonstrate proficiency of the following general objectives with at least 75% level of competence.

    1. Explain the general physical and chemical properties of dental materials including solids, adhesion, adherence, cohesion, bonding, wetting, stress, strain, elasticity, ductility, flow, harness, relaxation, thermal expansion, and thermal conductivity
    2. Relate the chemical and physical characteristics of dental materials to their selection and use in restorative dentistry
    3. Describe the physical properties that are important to manipulation and use of reversible and irreversible hydrocolloid, ZOE, and rubber base impression materials, and the advantages and disadvantages for each
    4. Classify gypsum, materials according to their use in dentistry in relation to the physical and chemical properties of each
    5. Mix alginate impression material and take impression on typodont and Classmate
    6. Mix and pour impressions in both alpha and beta hemihydrate
    7. Trim models for study casts
    8. Identify various dental cements and describe their physical and biological effects in relation to their manipulation and utilization
    9. Mix dental cements for experimentation with setting time and hardness
    10. Describe the physical properties and composition of each of the restorative materials and relate them to utilization in the oral cavity, including dental amalgam, synthetic resins, silicate material, and direct filling gold
    11. Describe the general properties and composition of dental gold, and the significance of its use in dentistry
    12. Discuss the general characteristics and significance to dentistry of porcelain, denture resins, chromium alloys, orthodontic materials, carbon steel, stainless steel
    13. Demonstrate an understanding of the significant physical and chemical properties of dental material through proper manipulation and use during dental procedures
    14. Mix and evaluate elastomeric materials
    15. Mix and place perio dressing
    16. Mix and place occlusal sealants for polymerization
    17. Explain the effect of the oral environment upon materials used in restorative and prosthetic dentistry
    18. Utilize caution in handling prosthetic devices considering the materials used in their construction and the effects of abrasives and chemicals upon their integrity
    19. Describe and demonstrate the proper placement of the matrix retainer
    1. list and explain 5 necessary characteristics of the matrix retainer
    2. describe and demonstrate proper placement
    1. Classify each restorative material as it is used in the oral cavity
    1. identify the uses of silicate cement in the oral cavity
    2. define synthetic resin and state its uses in dentistry. compare composition, use, workability, and strength of silicophosphate cements with silicate
    3. compare composition, use workability, and strength of silicophosphate cements with silicate
    4. state the requisites of a dental resin
    5. identify shortcomings of dental resins
    6. explain aging of amalgam
    7. explain alloy/mercury ratio and minimal mercury
    1. List the manipulative variables that influence the amount of Hg in a restoration
    2. Describe reaction of trituration of mercury and alloy
    3. Describe the composition of each type of restorative material
    1. describe the composition of the silicate powder and liquid
    2. explain need for protecting pulp from silicate restoration and incorporation of as much power as possible in mixing
    3. explain why L/P ratio is critical
    4. explain addition polymerization
    5. compare thermoplastic and thermoset resins
    6. identify and describe the purpose of each ingredient in an amalgam alloy
    7. compare spherical and conventional alloys
    8. explain why mercury is used
    9. describe the end product if condensation does not immediately follow trituration
    1. Compare composites and acrylic resins
    2. Explain the advantage of a small particle sized alloy
    3. Describe and explain the precaution to be used when using mercury.
    4. Compare the dough and bead; and flow techniques the dentist may employ in inserting resin restorations
    5. Describe mixing technique for composite restorative materials
    6. Define and explain the following terms: alloy, amalgam alloy, amalgamate, filings, trituration condensation
    7. Explain post-op instructions for patient with a new amalgam restoration
    8. Describe the technique employed with the mechanical amalgamator. Use it in the lab
    9. Mix in the lab:
        1. Amalgam
        2. Cements
        3. ZOE
    1. Describe the clinical importance of galvanic currents and explain means of prevention
    2. Identify restorations to be polished
        1. describe appearance of corrosion
        2. explain need for waiting 48 hours after insertion before polishing
        3. polish an amalgam
    3. Explain advantages of a smooth restorative surface
        1. explain the importance of finishing and polishing dental appliances and restorations
        2. explain how a hygienist can make a restoration more resistant to corrosion
    4. Observe infection control precautions when handling impression material and trays. Sterilize impression tray. Spray alginate impression with disinfectant. Wear gloves, masks, glasses, lab coats.
Revised 9/96

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