Biomaterials and Your Health from edX

Good health is important to all of us! The development of novel biomaterials and biotechnologies not only help to treat diseases, but they also improve our quality of lives. Do you know what the implication of fibre reinforced composites in the health care industry is? How do nanoneedles and biomineralization help to diagnose and treat diseases? Biomaterials research today is an exciting and intensive multidisciplinary area that encompasses contributions from a wide range of disciplinary areas, from clinical medicine to biology, chemistry, physics, material science, and engineering.

In this 4-Week-4-Module course, Biomaterials and Your Health, you will learn from a dynamic team of 25 dental practitioners and researchers across 10 dental specialties around the world, led by HKU’s Prof Jukka Matinlinna and Dr James K.H. Tsoi. You will learn about the special properties of biomedical materials in oral health care and be introduced to cutting-edge technologies such as nanoneedle in oral cancer and the crucial roles of digital dentistry in contemporary oral health care.

Furthermore, clinicians and scientists in different parts of the world will share with you their innovative research and findings, among them are potential and new biomaterials applications in oral health care.

We cordially invite those of you who wish to make a difference in tomorrow’s dental materials and oral health development to join us in the exciting journey in Biomaterials and Your Health.

What's inside

Learning objectives

After completing this course, the learner will:
The course biomaterials and your health compiles four modules introducing cutting-edge technologies in dentistry including biomimicry, nanoneedles and its application in oral cancer that support clinical dental diagnostics. learners will also be introduced to the properties of the most commonly used dental materials such as modern bone cement, glass ionomer cements, fibre reinforced composites and silicon. furthermore, standardisation and work safety aspects in dentistry will also be discussed.
The learning objectives of the four modules in biomaterials and your health are as follows:
Module 1 – biomaterials ****
1.1 biomaterials and biomedical materials
- define biomaterials and biocompatibility
- examine what biomaterials and biomedical materials implies
1.2 biocompatibility and resin safety
- discuss the work safety aspects of resin composites and rmgic
1.3 biomineralisation and remineralisation
- define “biomineralization” and list its applications in dentistry
- understand how to make a synthetic saliva for research, and why
Module 2 – modern cements ****
2.1 modern bone cement and surface treatment
- briefly introduce bone substitute materials
- list surface treatment methods to enhance zirconia bonding
2.2 glass ionomer cements
- understand what dental restorative materials are / consist of
- explore the polymeric materials and resin composites in dentistry

2.3 fibre reinforced composites
- discuss the nonmetallic implants in a future trend
Module 3 – nanomaterials and nanotechnologies ****
3.1 nanomaterials and bio interface
- discuss and distinguish nanomaterials and biomimetic materials
3.2 nanoneedles and its application
- explore the nanoneedle in oral cancer and its application
3.3 material testing and standards for the new era of dental biomaterials
- understand the role of third-party quality evaluations for biomaterials
- discuss the future of biomaterials: will they be ceramic, metallic or polymeric based materials?
Module 4 – silicon and your life ****
4.1 prosthesis
- identity the prosthetic dentistry and cosmesis
4.2 biomimicry
- compare and contrast nanomaterials and biomimetic materials
4.3 silicon and its application
- list the applications of silicon used in medicine and dentistry
- learn the nanocomposite coatings for anti-infective urinary catheters

After completing this course, the learner will:
The course biomaterials and your health compiles four modules introducing cutting-edge technologies in dentistry including biomimicry, nanoneedles and its application in oral cancer that support clinical dental diagnostics. learners will also be introduced to the properties of the most commonly used dental materials such as modern bone cement, glass ionomer cements, fibre reinforced composites and silicon. furthermore, standardisation and work safety aspects in dentistry will also be discussed.
The learning objectives of the four modules in biomaterials and your health are as follows:
Module 1 – biomaterials ****
1.1 biomaterials and biomedical materials
- define biomaterials and biocompatibility
- examine what biomaterials and biomedical materials implies
1.2 biocompatibility and resin safety
- discuss the work safety aspects of resin composites and rmgic
1.3 biomineralisation and remineralisation
- define “biomineralization” and list its applications in dentistry
- understand how to make a synthetic saliva for research, and why
Module 2 – modern cements ****
2.1 modern bone cement and surface treatment
- briefly introduce bone substitute materials
- list surface treatment methods to enhance zirconia bonding
2.2 glass ionomer cements
- understand what dental restorative materials are / consist of
- explore the polymeric materials and resin composites in dentistry
2.3 fibre reinforced composites
- discuss the nonmetallic implants in a future trend
Module 3 – nanomaterials and nanotechnologies ****
3.1 nanomaterials and bio interface
- discuss and distinguish nanomaterials and biomimetic materials
3.2 nanoneedles and its application
- explore the nanoneedle in oral cancer and its application
3.3 material testing and standards for the new era of dental biomaterials
- understand the role of third-party quality evaluations for biomaterials
- discuss the future of biomaterials: will they be ceramic, metallic or polymeric based materials?
Module 4 – silicon and your life ****
4.1 prosthesis
- identity the prosthetic dentistry and cosmesis
4.2 biomimicry
- compare and contrast nanomaterials and biomimetic materials
4.3 silicon and its application
- list the applications of silicon used in medicine and dentistry
- learn the nanocomposite coatings for anti-infective urinary catheters

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches the common features of modern bone cement and surface treatment

Examines prosthetic dentistry and cosmesis

Provides the properties of biomedical materials in oral health care

Provides a comprehensive study of science

Teaches about the implications of fibre reinforced composites in the health care industry

Provides a chance to learn from a dynamic team of 25 dental practitioners and researchers across 10 dental specialties

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Biomaterials and Your Health with these activities:

Volunteer at a Dental Clinic

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Gain practical experience and apply your knowledge in a real-world setting by volunteering at a dental clinic.

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Contact local dental clinics to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Complete any necessary training or orientation.
Assist dental professionals with tasks such as patient care, sterilization, and administrative duties.

Explore Online Simulations

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Enhance your understanding of complex concepts through interactive online simulations that provide a hands-on learning experience.

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Search for online simulations related to the course material.
Follow the instructions and engage with the simulations.
Reflect on the results and how they relate to the course concepts.

Study Flashcards

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Review course concepts in a quick and efficient way, using flashcards to test your understanding of key terms and definitions.

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Create a deck of flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the course.
Regularly review the flashcards, testing yourself on the definitions.

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Solve Practice Problems

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Test your comprehension and reinforce your knowledge by solving practice problems related to the course material.

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Find practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or your instructor.
Attempt to solve the problems on your own.
Check your answers and identify areas where you need further clarification.

Join a Study Group

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Collaborate with peers to discuss course material, share insights, and test your understanding through group activities.

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Find a group of classmates or fellow learners who are interested in forming a study group.
Set regular meeting times and a study schedule.
Take turns leading discussions, presenting concepts, and facilitating group activities.

Write a Summary of a Research Article

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Deepen your understanding of a specific topic by writing a summary of a research article related to the course material.

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Choose a research article relevant to the course material.
Read the article carefully and take notes on the main points.
Write a summary of the article, including its purpose, methods, results, and conclusions.

Create a Course Summary

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Organize and summarize the key concepts covered in the course to improve your retention and understanding.

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Review your notes, assignments, and quizzes.
Identify the main ideas and supporting details from each lesson.
Create a concise and organized summary of the course material.

Develop a Presentation on a Course Topic

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Enhance your understanding and communication skills by creating a presentation that explains a specific course topic to an audience.

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Choose a topic that you are interested in or that you need to strengthen your understanding of.
Research the topic thoroughly and gather relevant information.
Create a presentation that includes clear and engaging visuals, explanations, and examples.
Practice your presentation and deliver it to an audience.

Career center

Learners who complete Biomaterials and Your Health will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Materials Scientist

Materials scientists research and develop new materials for use in a variety of applications, including medical devices, implants, and tissue engineering. They study the properties of different materials and how they interact with the human body. Materials scientists typically need a bachelor's degree in materials science or a related field, as well as a master's degree or doctorate.

See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist

Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical engineers apply engineering principles to design and develop medical devices and systems. They work with doctors and other healthcare professionals to create new ways to treat and diagnose diseases. Biomedical engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering or a related field, as well as a master's degree or doctorate.

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Microbiologist

Microbiologists study microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They work to identify and characterize microorganisms, and to understand their role in health and disease. Microbiologists typically need a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related field, as well as a master's degree or doctorate.

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Pharmaceutical Scientist

Pharmaceutical scientists research and develop new drugs and therapies. They work with chemists, biologists, and other scientists to create new medications that are safe and effective. Pharmaceutical scientists typically need a bachelor's degree in pharmaceutical science or a related field, as well as a master's degree or doctorate.

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Dentist

Dentists examine patients' teeth and mouths in order to prevent, diagnose, or treat diseases of the teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth. They may perform a variety of procedures, such as fillings, extractions, and root canals. Dentists typically need a bachelor's degree in dentistry or a related field, as well as a license to practice dentistry.

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Toxicologist

Toxicologists study the effects of chemicals on the human body. They work to identify and assess the risks of exposure to chemicals, and to develop ways to protect people from harm. Toxicologists typically need a bachelor's degree in toxicology or a related field, as well as a master's degree or doctorate.

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Nanotechnologist

Nanotechnologists research and develop new technologies at the nanoscale, which is the scale of atoms and molecules. They work on a variety of applications, including medical devices, drug delivery systems, and tissue engineering. Nanotechnologists typically need a bachelor's degree in nanotechnology or a related field, as well as a master's degree or doctorate.

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Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienists perform a variety of tasks to promote oral health, such as cleaning teeth, examining patients for signs of oral disease, and educating patients on how to care for their teeth and gums. They typically need an associate's degree in dental hygiene or a related field, as well as a license to practice dental hygiene.

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Dental Assistant

Dental assistants assist dentists in providing patient care. They may perform a variety of tasks, such as taking X-rays, preparing patients for procedures, and sterilizing instruments. They typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as a certificate in dental assisting or a related field.

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Prosthodontist

Prosthodontists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with missing or damaged teeth. They may create a variety of dental prostheses, such as dentures, bridges, and crowns. Prosthodontists typically need a bachelor's degree in dentistry or a related field, as well as a master's degree in prosthodontics.

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Orthodontist

Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating irregularities in the teeth and jaws. They use a variety of techniques to straighten teeth and improve jaw alignment, such as braces and retainers. Orthodontists typically need a bachelor's degree in dentistry or a related field, as well as a master's degree in orthodontics.

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Endodontist

Endodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the pulp, the soft tissue inside the teeth. They may perform a variety of procedures, such as root canals and apicoectomies. Endodontists typically need a bachelor's degree in dentistry or a related field, as well as a master's degree in endodontics.

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Periodontist

Periodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. They may perform a variety of procedures, such as scaling and root planing, gum surgery, and bone grafting. Periodontists typically need a bachelor's degree in dentistry or a related field, as well as a master's degree in periodontics.

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Medical Device Designer

Medical device designers create and develop medical devices and equipment. They work with doctors and other healthcare professionals to design devices that are safe, effective, and user-friendly. Medical device designers typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, as well as a master's degree in medical device design or a related field.

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Oral Surgeon

Oral surgeons specialize in the surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects of the mouth, jaws, and face. They may perform a variety of procedures, such as wisdom tooth removal, extractions, and jaw surgery. Oral surgeons typically need a bachelor's degree in dentistry or a related field, as well as a master's degree in oral surgery.

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