The dental student studies three main levels of human anatomy, in both lecture and laboratory. In Gross Anatomy the student conducts a detailed study of the head and neck using cadaver specimens, and also examines the thorax, abdomen, and upper extremities. In Neuroanatomy the student studies the structure and function of the central nervous system, with emphasis on the cranial nerves. General and Oral Histology is an integrated course in which students first examine the general microscopic characteristics of cells, tissues, and organs and then apply this knowledge in a detailed evaluation of the microstructure of the oral cavity. This comprehensive, multidisciplinary course is dedicated to the understanding of pain and its management.
Instruction includes training in local anesthesia and nitrous oxide administration.
Lecture topics include pain transmission, neurotransmitters, theories of pain perception, and treatment procedures for patients suffering from acute or chronic pain. Consideration is given to the use of drugs, biofeedback, hypnosis, and surgery for treatment of pain. The Behavioral Science course introduces first year students to the behavioral aspects of dental health care delivery in practice. The overall goal of the course is to sensitize the student to the professional, interpersonal, and sociocultural issues and challenges of today's dental practice. The goal of Dental Biochemistry and Nutrition is to permit students to understand human biochemistry in health and disease.