Dental Materials Science

Core modules:

Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Dentistry

The replacement of missing or diseased tissues and the restoration of normal tissue function is arguably the greatest challenge encountered by surgeons and clinical dentists today. This module introduces postgraduate students to the rapidly developing field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine as applied in clinical dentistry, craniofacial surgery and in commercial and laboratory research. Students on this module will be provided with knowledge and insights with respect to the broad field of tissue engineering and regenerative dentistry, but particular emphasis will be placed on engineered tissue construction for dental and craniofacial repair and reconstruction.

15 credits

Dental Materials Science

This module introduces postgraduate students to a number of key themes and subjects at the heart of dental materials. The module illustrates the relationship between the science of dental materials, their properties, and the relationship between these and clinical performance. The latter includes consideration of the wider subjects of biomechanics and other host factors. Specific subjects covered therefore include the history of dental materials, and their physical, chemical, optical and mechanical properties. The full range of materials used in dentistry will be considered, including direct restorative materials, and materials for removable and fixed prosthodontics.

15 credits

Selecting Dental Materials for Clinical Applications

The correct selection and proper use of materials in dentistry is informed by a wide variety very different scientific, technical, legal and practical considerations. This module will cover a broad range of subjects and issues that determine the safe and correct use of materials including biocompatibility, regulatory environment, and biomechanical considerations. It will also present new and emerging technologies that are having (or will have) an impact on dentistry. Students will be have the opportunity to engage in developing critical and reflective skills as they consider the wider issues that determine the safe and effective use of dental materials.

15 credits

Research Problems and Approaches

The aim of this module is to introduce the candidate to critical appraisal of the scientific literature, health informatics and presentation skills. Health informatics seminars will familiarise the candidates with the tools available for searching and accessing scientific literature. Students will learn to critically appraise the literature including scientific papers, develop a coherent argument and present their findings both verbally and in a written format. Candidates will also be required to attend the Dental School lunchtime seminar series.

15 credits

Structural and Physical Properties of Dental and Bio-materials.

The bulk and surface properties of biomaterials used for regenerative medicine and dental applications directly influence and control the dynamic interactions at the interfacial level. Therefore, it is not only important to understand Structural and Physical Properties of Biomaterials but also view it as a process between the implanted materials and the host environment. It is important to understand these specific properties of biomaterials prior to any medical or dental applications. This module will provide students with knowledge of Structural and Physical Properties in relation with Dental Materials and Biomaterials, enabling them to understand links between biomaterials, regenerative medicine, dentistry and engineering. In addition, it will help them in understanding the hard and soft materials, chemical properties, mechanical properties, thermal properties, including surface modification and their characterisation. The module will provide an understanding of how these elements play a vital role in the success of regenerative medicine and clinical dentistry.

15 credits

Dental Technology I

In this module students will undertake a series of tutorials and lectures relating to the theory that underpins the practical aspects of dental technology. Students will also learn to identify good working practice and how to ensure quality in the production of dental appliances and restorations. Students will learn about a wide variety of production methods for a range of fixed restorations, removable prosthodontics and orthodontics. Students will have the opportunity to observe a range of production and design methods for each type of appliance or restoration.

15 credits

Introduction to Digital Dentistry and Dental Manufacturing

Digital and advanced manufacturing technologies are now having a significant impact on clinical dentistry, so much so that the ongoing changes could now be considered revolutionary. There is therefore a need to educate dentists and dental technologists in subjects related to this rapidly evolving field, starting with the underpinning basic science and engineering concepts, and then examining their practical application in ways that include intra-oral scanning and advanced manufacturing techniques. This module will provide the student with both (i) insight into the existing 3D scanning and manufacturing technologies used in general healthcare applications, highlighting both traditional and innovative methodologies, and (ii) in-depth knowledge and understanding related to 3D scanning and manufacturing in dentistry.

15 credits

Biomaterials II

This course will explore the range of materials, both synthetic and natural, that can be used as implants in the human body, from a materials science perspective. This course will highlight the materials properties of implant materials, and will give an overview of possible host responses to the implant materials. Additionally, both physical and chemical routes to reduce the host response will be discussed. Case studies of hard and soft tissue implants will be discussed. Finally, the course will highlight the use of artificial organs. 

10 credits

Research Project

This module is to enable students to develop an understanding of both the research process and research skills required to undertake a supervised research project. The student will undertake a project within a research laboratory either in the Dental School or in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. They will be required to identify relevant information on a topic and critically review the research of others. Original research will be carried out under the supervision of one or more members of the academic staff. The student will carry out a comprehensive Literature Survey (reading of original papers and review articles) and further background reading on the research topic. Project assessment will involve project plan presentation, literature review, dissertation and an oral defence of dissertation.

60 credits