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Dentistry 101

Russell Taichman and Rogerio Castilho

Dentistry 101 is an introduction to the exciting and diverse field of dentistry through the lens of its many practitioners. If you’re interested in exploring dentistry as a profession, or if you’re ready to pursue a career in it and want to prepare yourself for dental school and the profession that lies ahead, Dentistry 101 will help you better envision the paths you can take.

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Dentistry 101 is an introduction to the exciting and diverse field of dentistry through the lens of its many practitioners. If you’re interested in exploring dentistry as a profession, or if you’re ready to pursue a career in it and want to prepare yourself for dental school and the profession that lies ahead, Dentistry 101 will help you better envision the paths you can take.

If you complete Dentistry 101, you'll have a well-rounded introductory understanding of the field of dentistry, and you'll get glimpses of the profession that aren't always easily available. You'll also be better informed about, and more prepared for, the dental school admissions process if you choose to pursue it.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction & Choosing a Career Path in Dentistry
Further Specialty Areas of Dentistry
Areas of Enhancement in Dentistry
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of dentistry's diverse roles and career paths
Introduces students to specialized areas of dentistry, such as surgical dentistry and dental hygiene
Provides insights into the field of dentistry that are not easily accessible elsewhere
Prepares students for the dental school admissions process
Taught by Russell Taichman and Rogerio Castilho, who are well-respected professionals in the field of dentistry

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive introduction to dentistry paths

According to learners, Dentistry 101 provides a clear and thorough introduction to the field. Students especially appreciated the course's focus on the diverse career paths and specialties within dentistry, finding this content highly valuable for exploring the profession. While many found it an excellent starting point for those considering dental school or a dental career, some noted that the course remains basic and may not offer sufficient depth for those already further along in their studies or seeking detailed insights into the admissions process or advanced topics. Overall, it's widely considered a solid foundational overview.
Most valuable for those new to dentistry.
"If you know nothing about dentistry, this is a fantastic course. It's definitely geared towards the absolute beginner."
"This course solidified my interest but is definitely Dentistry 101. Don't expect advanced concepts."
"As someone just starting to explore medical fields, I found this perfectly pitched. Those with prior knowledge might find it basic."
Valuable insights into dental specialties.
"Learning about the various specialties was the highlight for me. It opened my eyes to possibilities beyond general dentistry."
"The section on career paths was very informative and helped me think about which direction I might want to pursue."
"I appreciated how the course showcased the different roles and environments dentists work in. Very helpful for career planning."
Provides a strong introduction to the field.
"The course provided a solid foundation and introduction to the field of dentistry. It gave a great overview of what dentistry is all about."
"I felt like I got a comprehensive look into the different aspects of dentistry. It's a great starting point for someone curious."
"This is an excellent course if you are just beginning to explore dentistry. It covers the basics effectively."
May not satisfy those seeking advanced topics.
"While the overview is good, I was hoping for a bit more depth on specific areas or challenges in the profession."
"Didn't go into as much detail about the dental school application process as I had hoped. More of a broad overview."
"Good general course, but don't expect it to cover complex procedures or detailed scientific principles extensively."

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 Dentistry 101 with these activities:
Review basic principles of biology and chemistry as they relate to dentistry
Refreshes your foundational knowledge in biology and chemistry, which are essential for understanding dentistry.
Browse courses on Biology
Show steps
  • Review your notes and textbooks from previous biology and chemistry courses.
  • Take practice quizzes or tests to assess your understanding.
  • Focus on the specific areas of biology and chemistry that are relevant to dentistry.
  • Seek additional resources or consult with experts if needed.
Review instruments and procedures
Familiarize yourself with the essential instruments and procedures used in dentistry to build a solid foundation for the course.
Show steps
  • Identify common dental instruments, such as explorers, scalers, and mirrors.
  • Learn the proper techniques for using each instrument, such as scaling and probing.
  • Practice using instruments on models or simulators to develop dexterity.
Review required prerequisite subjects
Refresh essential biological knowledge to provide a stronger foundation for understanding the course content.
Browse courses on Biology
Show steps
  • Review fundamental concepts in biology, such as cell structure, genetics, and biochemistry.
  • Review key physiological systems, including the circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems.
12 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 15 activities
Explore Dental Terminology
Becoming familiar with dental terminology will help you understand the lectures and discussions in the course.
Show steps
  • Find online tutorials or videos on dental terminology.
  • Create flashcards or a glossary of dental terms.
  • Practice using dental terminology in conversations or writing.
Compile a resource list of useful websites, books, and articles on dentistry
Provides a valuable resource for future reference and further exploration of dentistry.
Show steps
  • Identify and gather relevant websites, books, and articles on dentistry.
  • Organize the resources into categories or topics.
  • Create a document or online platform to store and share the resource list.
  • Regularly update and expand the resource list as you discover new materials.
Shadow a practicing dentist
Gain valuable hands-on experience and insights by shadowing a practicing dentist, observing their techniques, patient interactions, and decision-making process.
Show steps
  • Identify a practicing dentist who is willing to mentor you.
  • Observe the dentist's daily routine, including patient examinations, procedures, and consultations.
  • Ask questions and engage in discussions to learn about the dentist's approach and decision-making process.
Create a digital toolkit
Organize and compile key course materials, including notes, assignments, and resources, into a digital toolkit for easy access and effective review.
Show steps
  • Gather and digitize course notes, assignments, and other relevant materials.
  • Organize materials into logical categories or folders.
  • Review materials regularly to reinforce your learning and prepare for assessments.
Form a study group with other students in the course
Provides a supportive environment for discussing course material, sharing knowledge, and practicing skills.
Show steps
  • Identify other students in the course who are interested in forming a study group.
  • Establish regular meeting times and locations.
  • Set group goals and decide on the format of the sessions.
  • Take turns leading discussions, presenting on specific topics, and quizzing each other.
Participate in study groups
Collaborate with peers in study groups to enhance your understanding of course concepts, share perspectives, and support each other's learning.
Show steps
  • Form or join a study group with classmates.
  • Meet regularly to discuss course materials, practice techniques, and solve problems.
  • Engage in peer-to-peer teaching and feedback to solidify your knowledge.
Follow tutorials on different dental procedures
Provides step-by-step instructions on how to perform various dental procedures.
Show steps
  • Identify specific dental procedures you want to learn.
  • Search for and select reputable tutorials.
  • Follow the instructions carefully.
  • Practice the procedures on a dental simulator or with a partner.
Become a peer tutor
Support your peers and solidify your own understanding by tutoring fellow students, answering questions, and facilitating study sessions.
Show steps
  • Offer your assistance to classmates who may need academic support.
  • Review course materials and prepare to answer questions effectively.
  • Conduct tutoring sessions or participate in study groups, sharing your knowledge and helping others succeed.
Create a presentation on a specific dental topic
Enhances your research and communication skills while deepening your understanding of a specific dental topic.
Show steps
  • Select a specific dental topic that interests you.
  • Research and gather information from reliable sources.
  • Organize and structure your presentation logically and visually.
  • Practice delivering your presentation to receive feedback and improve your delivery skills.
Volunteer at a dental clinic or community outreach program
Provides practical experience and allows you to observe and assist dentists in a real-world setting.
Show steps
  • Identify and contact dental clinics or community outreach programs that offer volunteer opportunities.
  • Submit an application and undergo any required training.
  • Attend volunteer shifts regularly and assist dentists as directed.
  • Observe and participate in various dental procedures and treatments.
Design a dental treatment plan
Develop a comprehensive dental treatment plan based on a hypothetical patient case to apply your knowledge, improve your clinical reasoning, and enhance your ability to manage patient care.
Show steps
  • Gather information about the patient's dental history, oral examination findings, and diagnostic tests.
  • Identify dental problems and prioritize treatment needs.
  • Develop a treatment plan that outlines specific procedures, materials, and timelines.
  • Present your treatment plan, including the rationale for your decisions, to receive feedback and improve your plan.
Mentor or tutor other students who are interested in dentistry
Reinforces your understanding of dentistry while helping others learn.
Show steps
  • Identify students who could benefit from your mentorship or tutoring.
  • Set regular meeting times and discuss topics related to dentistry.
  • Provide guidance, support, and resources to help them succeed in their studies.
  • Receive feedback from your mentees to improve your teaching skills.

Career center

Learners who complete Dentistry 101 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Dentist
Dentistry 101 is a course that will introduce you to the exciting field of dentistry and familiarize you with the many opportunities it offers. If you're interested in pursuing dentistry as a career, this course will help you understand the dental school admissions process and prepare you for the profession that lies ahead.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dentist
Dental Hygienist
Dentistry 101 can be a good starting point for understanding the field of dentistry, including the role of a dental hygienist. This course can help you understand the importance of preventative dental care and provide a foundation for advancing your skills to work as a dental hygienist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dental Hygienist
Dental Assistant
Dentistry 101 can help those interested in a career as a dental assistant by providing an overview of dental procedures and the role dental assistants play in supporting dentists. You may gain insights into patient care and practice management, helping you prepare for the role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dental Assistant
Orthodontist
Dentistry 101 provides an introduction to the field of dentistry, including the role of an orthodontist. By understanding the principles of dental care and the importance of proper tooth alignment, you can better understand the work of an orthodontist and the path to this career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Orthodontist
Periodontist
Dentistry 101 provides an overview of dentistry, including the role of a periodontist. This course may help you understand the importance of gum health and the treatment of gum disease, providing a foundation for further exploration of the field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Periodontist
Dental Surgeon
Dentistry 101 introduces the field of dentistry, including the role of a dental surgeon. The course provides an overview of dental procedures and the importance of oral health, which can help you better understand the responsibilities and skills required for a career as a dental surgeon.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dental Surgeon
Dental Laboratory Technician
Dentistry 101 provides an introduction to dentistry, including an overview of dental laboratory procedures. This course may help you understand the role of dental laboratory technicians in creating dental prosthetics and the importance of precision and accuracy in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dental Laboratory Technician
Dental Sales Representative
Dentistry 101 introduces the field of dentistry and the role of dental sales representatives. This course provides an overview of dental products and equipment, which can help you understand the industry and the skills required for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dental Sales Representative
Biology Teacher
Dentistry 101 offers insights into the field of dentistry, including an overview of oral health and anatomy. This course may be beneficial for biology teachers who want to incorporate real-world examples and practical applications of biology into their lessons, particularly in the context of human health and the importance of dental care.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biology Teacher
Science Writer
Dentistry 101 provides an introduction to the field of dentistry, including the latest advancements and research. This course may help science writers gain a deeper understanding of dental health, enabling them to communicate complex scientific concepts related to dentistry in an accessible and engaging manner.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer
Dental Equipment Manufacturer
Dentistry 101 introduces the field of dentistry and provides insights into the dental equipment industry. This course may help you understand the types of equipment used in dental practices and the importance of innovation and technology in dentistry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dental Equipment Manufacturer
Dental Insurance Underwriter
Dentistry 101 provides an overview of dentistry, including dental insurance and reimbursement. This course may help you understand the basics of dental insurance coverage and the factors that influence underwriting decisions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dental Insurance Underwriter
Dental Office Manager
Dentistry 101 introduces the field of dentistry and provides insights into dental office management. This course may help you understand the operational aspects of a dental practice, including patient scheduling, insurance billing, and staff management.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dental Office Manager
Dental Consultant
Dentistry 101 provides an introduction to the field of dentistry and the role of dental consultants. This course may help you understand the types of consulting services offered in dentistry and the skills required to provide guidance and support to dental practices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dental Consultant

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Dentistry 101.
Cover image
Mosby's Dental Assisting Exam Review - E-Book
Save
Provides clear and concise definitions of over 100,000 dental terms and phrases. It is an essential reference for anyone studying or working in the field of dentistry.
Mosby's Dental Assisting Exam Review - E-Book
Kindle Edition
$$
Mosby's Dental Assisting Exam Review - Elsevier...
Printed Access Code
$$$
Cover image
Phillips' Science of Dental Materials E-Book
Save
Comprehensive textbook on dental materials. It covers the properties and uses of a wide range of materials used in dentistry, including metals, ceramics, and polymers.
Phillips' Science of Dental Materials E-Book
Kindle Edition
$$$
Phillips' Science of Dental Materials - Elsevier...
Printed Access Code
$$$
Cover image
Textbook of Oral Embryology & Histology
Save
Comprehensive textbook on oral anatomy, histology, and embryology. It provides detailed coverage of the structures of the oral cavity and their development.
Textbook of Oral Embryology & Histology
Paperback
$$
Textbook of Oral Embryology & Histology
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Fundamentals of Oral Anatomy, Physiology and...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the histology and physiology of the oral cavity. It valuable resource for students and practitioners who want to understand the structure and function of the oral tissues.
Fundamentals of Oral Anatomy, Physiology and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Orthodontics
Save
Comprehensive textbook on orthodontics. It covers the principles and techniques of orthodontic treatment, as well as the diagnosis and management of malocclusions.
Orthodontics
Hardcover
$$$$
Orthodontics: Current Principles and Techniques
Hardcover
$$$$
Orthodontics: Current Principles And Techniques:...
Paperback
$$$
Orthodontics - Elsevier eBook on VitalSource...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
Orthodontics- Elsevier eBook on Intel Education...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
Orthodontics- Elsevier eBook on Intel Education...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
Orthodontics - Elsevier eBook on VitalSource...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
Orthodontics - Inkling Enhanced E-Book:...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Clinical Oral Medicine
Save
Provides a detailed overview of the clinical anatomy of the oral cavity. It valuable resource for students and practitioners who want to understand the anatomy of the oral tissues and how it relates to clinical practice.
Clinical Oral Medicine
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Peterson’s Principles of Oral and Maxillofacial...
Save
Comprehensive textbook on oral and maxillofacial surgery. It covers the principles and techniques of surgical treatment for a wide range of oral and maxillofacial conditions.
Peterson’s Principles of Oral and Maxillofacial...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Endodontics
Save
Comprehensive textbook on endodontics. It covers the principles and techniques of endodontic treatment, as well as the diagnosis and management of pulpal and periradicular diseases.
Endodontics: Principles and Practice
Hardcover
$$$$
Endodontics Elsevier eBook on VitalSource (Retail...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
Endodontics: Endodontics E-Book
Kindle Edition
$$$
Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. It valuable resource for students and practitioners who want to learn about the diagnosis and treatment of oral and maxillofacial diseases.
Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology: A Rationale for...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Newman and Carranza's Clinical Periodontology and...
Save
Comprehensive textbook on periodontology. It covers the principles and techniques of periodontal treatment, as well as the diagnosis and management of periodontal diseases.
Newman and Carranza's Clinical Periodontology and...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Newman and Carranza's Clinical Periodontology and...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
Cover image
Personalized and Precision Integrative...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in dental care. It valuable resource for students and practitioners who want to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in dentistry.
Personalized and Precision Integrative...
Hardcover
$$$$
Personalized and Precision Integrative...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Handbook of Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of oral pathology. It valuable resource for students and practitioners who want to learn about the diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases.
Handbook of Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Esthetics in Dentistry
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of operative dentistry. It valuable resource for students and practitioners who want to learn about the diagnosis and treatment of dental caries.
Ronald E. Goldstein's Esthetics in Dentistry
Hardcover
$$$$
Esthetics in Dentistry: Esthetic Problems of...
Hardcover
$$$$
Ronald E. Goldstein's Esthetics in Dentistry
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Orthodontics - E-Book
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of orthodontics. It valuable resource for students and practitioners who want to learn about the diagnosis and treatment of malocclusion.
Orthodontics - E-Book
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Orthodontics - Elsevier eBook on VitalSource...
Printed Access Code
$$$$

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Course image
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Michigan
Instructors
Russell Taichman
Rogerio Castilho
Language
English
Transcripts
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Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of dentistry's diverse roles and career paths
Introduces students to specialized areas of dentistry, such as surgical dentistry and dental hygiene
Provides insights into the field of dentistry that are not easily accessible elsewhere
Prepares students for the dental school admissions process
Taught by Russell Taichman and Rogerio Castilho, who are well-respected professionals in the field of dentistry
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