Bioscience and Chemistry in Dentistry

Bioscience and Chemistry in Dentistry

Introduction

  • Presenter: Dr. Kate Miller

  • Institution: James Cook University, Australia

  • Learning Objective: Understanding the relevance of pre-clinical years' content to the practice of Dentistry.

Bioscience Topics Covered by Year
Year 1: 1st Semester

  • Basic Cell Biology: Study of cell structure and function.

  • Biochemistry: Exploration of biochemical processes within living organisms.

  • Microbiology: Understanding of microorganisms and their implications in dentistry.

  • Musculoskeletal Anatomy: Anatomy of muscles and bones relevant to dental practices.

  • Cell Division: Processes of mitosis and meiosis.

  • Genetics: Basic principles of heredity and genetic disorders.

  • Cancer: Understanding tumor biology and pathology.

  • Pharmacodynamics: Study of drug actions and effects in the body.

Year 1: 2nd Semester

  • Chemistry of Dental Materials: Properties and uses of materials used in dentistry.

  • Endocrine System: Hormonal functions and their relevance to oral health.

  • Thoracic Anatomy: Anatomy of the thorax, including heart and lungs.

  • Cardiovascular System: Study of heart, blood vessels, and circulation.

  • Respiratory System: Anatomy and function of the respiratory system.

  • GI System: Overview of the gastrointestinal tract.

  • Liver: Function and diseases related to the liver.

  • Pharmacokinetics: Understanding the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of drugs.

Year 2: 1st Semester

  • Blood: Components and functions of blood in dentistry.

  • Immune System: Functions and disorders affecting immunity.

  • Central Nervous System: Anatomy and functioning of the brain and spinal cord.

  • Bone Biology: Study of bone structure and metabolism.

  • Special Senses: Study of senses including taste and pain mechanisms.

Year 2: 2nd Semester

  • Head and Neck Anatomy: Relevant anatomy for dental practice.

  • Nerves, Muscles, Blood Supply: Functional anatomy related to oral health.

  • Dental and Orofacial Pain: Understanding pain mechanisms in dental contexts.

Case Study: Mr. DM

  • Presentation: Mr. DM presents with sensitivity around his lower right teeth.

  • Medical History:

    • Asthma, managed with a Ventolin inhaler.

    • History of recurrent strep throat and diagnosed with rheumatic heart disease.

  • Clinical Findings:

    • Presence of plaque and calculus; signs of gingivitis.

    • Diagnosis of dental caries (cavity) leading to sensitivity.

Infection Control in Dentistry

  • Importance: To prevent the spread of infections. Key infections encountered include:

    • Herpes simplex, herpes zoster, herpetic stomatitis.

    • Human Papilloma Virus, impetigo, infective endocarditis.

    • Mumps, syphilis, SARS, COVID-19, swine flu, tuberculosis, tetanus, actinomycosis.

    • Other infections include angular cheilitis, ANUG/NOMA, avian flu, candidiasis, cat scratch disease, cellulitis, glandular fever, gonorrhea, hand-foot-mouth disease, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B & C.

Biofilms in Dentistry

  • Definition: Biofilms are multiple species of microorganisms embedded in an extracellular slime layer.

  • Clinical Implications: Significance in understanding dental waterlines and infection control.

Gingivitis

  • Definition: An inflammatory condition due to the body’s response to infection.

  • Relevance to Immunology: Links to autoimmune diseases and conditions such as diabetes type 1 and rheumatic heart disease.

Treatment Planning for Mr. DM

  • Proposed Treatment: Filling required for dental caries.

  • Anaesthetic Needed: Local anaesthetic necessary for the procedure indicating knowledge of nervous system anatomy and pharmacodynamics.

  • Pharmacokinetics Consideration: Understanding how drugs act, focusing on the GI and renal systems.

Impact of Asthma on Dental Health

  • Assessing the impact of respiratory conditions and their medications (e.g., Ventolin) on oral health, such as causing dry mouth and increasing cavity risk.

Common Medical Conditions in Dentistry

  • Cardiovascular Disorders: Increased risk of blood clots and infective endocarditis.

  • Respiratory Disorders: Management of asthma and lung diseases.

  • Allergies: Immediate reactions (e.g., latex) vs. delayed reactions (e.g., dental materials).

  • Diabetes: Connection with periodontal disease exacerbation and other complications.

Chemistry Relevant to Dentistry

  • Physiology Understanding: Molecule movement, crossing of membranes, and cellular interactions.

  • Pharmacology Insight: Mechanisms of drug action and elimination from the body.

  • Cellular Processes: DNA, RNA, protein synthesis (transcription and translation).

  • Genetics and Cancer: Relevance of biochemical pathways.

Types of Chemistry in Dentistry

  • Cavities: Understanding minerals and composition of the oral cavity.

  • Drugs: Applications of dental anaesthetics and antibiotics.

  • Composition of Dental Products: Knowledge of toothpaste, mouthwash, whitening products, etc.

  • Restoration Materials: Understanding of bonding agents, resins, and impression materials (e.g., alginate, PVS).

Important Chemistry Topics to Revise

  • Atoms, molecules, and ions.

  • Concentration gradients and diffusion principles (osmosis, electrochemical gradients).

  • Understanding acids, bases, and pH levels.

  • Types of chemical bonds: ionic, covalent, and polar covalent bonds.

  • Redox reactions and components such as anodes, cathodes, and electrochemical cells.

  • Additional resources available online at LearnJCU, including a Menti quiz scheduled for Friday.