Competencies
The practice of dentistry requires a firm foundation in the basic sciences enabling the dentist to discriminate between normal anatomic, histologic and developmental variation and pathological alteration. The dentist must have knowledge of anatomy, histology, embryology, genetics, physiology, neuroscience, biochemistry, biomaterials, microbiology, pharmacology, pathology and behavioral science sufficient to understand the basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment. Knowledge of basic science and the ability to apply that knowledge critically is the foundation of the dental health care professions.
(CODA Standard 2-12, 2-13, 2-14)
As a result of successfully completing the predoctoral dental curriculum the new dentist will be able to:
- Ethics
Demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of professional ethics, health care principles and a familiarity with the ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct. (CODA Standard 2-20, 2-21) (ADEA Domain 2 Professionalism) - Critical Thinking
Integrate and synthesize information to advance knowledge and skills through critical evaluation of biomedical literature and the application of new science.(CODA Standard 2-15, 2-23) (ADEA Domain 1 Critical Thinking) - Communication
Apply interpersonal and communication skills to effectively care for diverse populations of patients. (CODA Standard 2-16, 2-17) (ADEA Domain 3 Communication and Interprofessional Skills) - Diagnosis
Diagnose diseases and abnormalities of the oral cavity and head/neck region. Obtain and assess information relative to systemic health of patients, initiating consultations and referrals to other health care professionals as appropriate. Develop a comprehensive treatment and/or referral plan, based on current oral disease risk analyses' and standard-of-care strategies.(CODA Standard 2-14, 2-25, 2-26) (ADEA Domain 6 Patient Care) - Oral Health Education
Educate patients, parents and/or caregivers with individualized instructions for improving nutrition and maintaining good oral health, monitoring and re-evaluating as necessary. (CODA Standard 2-25, 2-26) (ADEA Domain 4 Health Promotion) - Emergencies
Recognize risk factors for medical emergencies and demonstrate the ability to manage dental and medical emergencies. (CODA Standard 2-25, 2-27) (ADEA Domain 6 Patient Care) - Oral Function
Provide treatment and/or referrals as appropriate with the goal of achieving physiologic form, oral function and health. (CODA Standard 2-25, 2-26) (ADEA Domain 6 Patient Care) - Pain Management
Utilize pharmacological therapies and behavioral techniques to prevent or manage pain and anxiety. (CODA Standard 2-25) (ADEA Domain 6 Patient Care) - Risk Principles
Apply principles of risk management, quality improvement, infection control and radiation safety to patient care. (CODA Standard 2-18, 2-19, 2-24) (ADEA Domain 5 Practice Management and Domain 6 Patient Care) - Outcomes
Demonstrate the ability to self-assess competency and evaluate the outcomes of patient-centered dental health care. (CODA Standard 2-22) (ADEA Domain 1 Critical Thinking) - Community
Demonstrate the ability to function in community based disease prevention and health promotion activities. (CODA Standard 2-16, 2-17, 2-18) (ADEA Domain 4 Health Promotion) - Business
Identify the business principles and programs used in the administration of a dental practice while complying with all regulations, policies and protocols that relate to health, safety and the law. (CODA Standard 2-18, 2-19) (ADEA Domain 5 Practice Management and Informatics)
Approved by the general faculty – February 2001.
Addition approved by the general faculty – June 2002.
Major revision approved by the general faculty – May 2008.
