Dental Materials Syllabus for 2011-2012
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Course

DHYG-1319-001 Dental Materials

Prerequisites

CHEM 1406 or department chair consent

Course Description

Physical and chemical properties of dental materials including the application and manipulation of the various materials used in dentistry.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(3 sem hrs; 2 lec, 3 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Clinical Aspects of Dental Materials,  (Third Edition)   Marcia Gladwin, Michael Bagby

Supplies

1. Library Card for AC and/or city library
2. Computer and Internet Access, printer, print cartridges
3. Index cards, large scantrons, paper, pens, markers
4. Additional Lab materials will be needed

Student Performance

DHYG 1319 is a one semester course in Dental Materials Science, which will prepare the dental hygiene student to work with many of the basic materials used in the practice of dentistry. This course will enable the student to use dental materials in accordance with their design features and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. In addition, the student will be taught safety precautions and OSHA compliance.  The semester will progress straight through the book. After studying the material presented in this course of study and completing the projects in the lab, the student will be able to do the following:

1. Identify the materials commonly used in dentistry for restorative and lab procedures.
2. Demonstrate safe and appropriate handling of these materials
3. Recognize the clinical appearance and intraoral presence of restorative materials
4. Begin to understand the reasoning of a Dentist in choosing different materials
5. Feel comfortable in answering basic questions from patients concerning dental materials
6. Apply your knowledge base of dental materials to problems or opportunities that arise to help make reasonable opinions or suggestions and to help educate your patients as to what action or treatments might be appropriate, to report or present your findings to the dentist for a diagnoses and treatment of your patients.

The student will know that these goals have been successfully completed if after evaluated by course instructor, a final grade of “C” or greater is earned. 

Chapter Objectives

Objectives Chapter 1
1. Summarize the reasons why a dental hygienist should be knowledgeable in
the science of dental materials.
2. Discuss some of the conditions that make the oral cavity a hostile environment.
3. Identify four characteristics or properties a dental material must possess to
survive in the oral environment.
4. Explain how the following organizations evaluate and/or classify dental
drugs, materials, instruments, and equipment:
• American Dental Association (ADA)
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• International Standards Organization (ISO)
5. Name three ways dental materials may be classified, and discuss each.
6. Specifically discuss the locations of all six cavity classifications and the
appropriate restorative material to be used for each. Include the following in
your discussion:
• Anterior and/or posterior
• Involvement of incisal angle
• Involvement of proximal surface
• Smooth surfaces versus pit and fissures

Objectives Chapter 2
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. List the phases into which materials are classified. Discuss the varying
amounts of attraction between the molecules and atoms of each phase.
Recall the differentiating characteristics of each phase.
2. Explain the basic difference between primary and secondary bonds.
3. Name the three types of primary bonds, and describe the differences
between them.
4. Summarize the similarities and differences of secondary bonds, which
include permanent dipoles, hydrogen bonds, and fluctuating dipoles.
5. Contrast the bonding characteristics of metals, ceramics, plastics, and
composites.

Objectives Chapter 3
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Describe or define the key words and phrases.
2. Relate the physical properties of materials discussed in this chapter to
their use in dentistry.
3. Define wetting. Include in the definition a drop of liquid and the contact
angle formed with the surface.
4. Name the units of measure for the following properties:
• Density
• Heat capacity
• Stress
• Strain
• Modulus of elasticity
5. Define “proportional limit,” and name two other nearly equivalent terms.
6. Name the four types of stress, and provide an example of each found in
everyday life.
7. Describe two situations in which dental materials are subjected to bending
stresses when in function.
8. Compare the properties of “toughness” and “hardness,” and provide
examples.
9. Explain the difference between stress relaxation and creep.
10. Discuss the phenomenon of stress concentration, and compare its effects
on a poorly placed amalgam restoration as well as on a properly placed
one.

Objectives Chapter 4
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Describe an “adhesive.”
2. Explain the difference between micromechanical bonding and macromechanical
bonding, and provide an example of each type.
3. Recall three benefits the patient receives from restorations that are bonded
to tooth structure.
4. Compare the differences of the microanatomy of enamel and of dentin
regarding etching and bonding. The comparison should include the following
terms:
• Orthophosphoric acid
• Enamel tags
• Smear layer
• Hybrid layer
• Primer
• Adhesive
5. Discuss two of the earlier fallacies about dentinal bonding and how
research has changed current practice.
6. Summarize the main differences between glass ionomer cements and
dentinal bonding.

Objectives Chapter 5
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Name the two types of polymerization reactions commonly seen in dental
materials, and explain the meaning of “addition” in “addition polymerization.”
2. Discuss the following properties of restorative resins:
• Polymerization shrinkage
• Coefficient of thermal expansion
• Abrasion resistance
3. Summarize the relationship between a filler particle, the matrix, and the
coupling agent of a composite restorative material.
4. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of light-cure and chemicalcure
composite materials.
5. Explain the importance of proper eye protection when light-curing dental
materials.
6. Relate the importance of the following procedures and/or characteristics
of dental composites:
• Depth of cure
• Addition of material in increments
• Inhibition by air
• Unreacted C_C bonds
• Shades
• Shortcomings of the matrix
7. Summarize the importance of the following properties in relation to the
fillers (particles) found in dental composites:
• Composition
• Size
• Amount
• Abrasion resistance
• Refractive index
• Clinical detection
8. Choose one of the three types of dental composites, and justify its use in
the following dental situations:
• Bonding orthodontic brackets to enamel
• Class V “gingival notch” restoration
• Small Class I or II restoration
9. Briefly explain the reason(s) for the development of flowable and condensable
composites.
10. Discuss the role the dental hygienist should play in the placement and
maintenance of pit and fissure sealants.
11. Discuss the use of a primer with pit and fissure sealants.
12. Briefly describe “preventive resin restoration” and “composite cements.”
13. Assess the positive and negative characteristics of light-cure and chemicalcure
glass ionomer cements.
14. Discuss the similarities between compomers, glass ionomers, and
composites.

Objectives Chapter 6
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Differentiate between an amalgam alloy and a dental amalgam.
2. Describe the composition of conventional and high-copper dental amalgams.
3. Describe the function (effects) of the major elements of dental amalgams.
4. Describe the self-sealing property of amalgam.
5. Describe the following shapes of amalgam alloy particles:
• Lathe cut
• Spherical
• Blend or admix
6. Describe the effect of moisture contamination on amalgam.
7. Describe acceptable mercury hygiene practices.
8. Describe the use and advantages of direct gold restorations.
OPTIONAL
9. Explain the trituration and setting processes.
10. Describe the reactions involved in both conventional and high-copper
amalgams.
11. Describe the composition, relative strength, and relative corrosion resistance
of the four most common amalgam phases.

Objectives Chapter 7
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Describe the use of dental cements as a:
• Luting agent
• Base
• Filling material
• Temporary restoration
• Intermediate restoration
• Periodontal pack
• Temporary cement
2. Explain the importance of adhesion and microleakage to the clinical use of
a dental cement.
3. Differentiate between a base and a liner.
4. Describe the use of a cavity varnish or cavity sealer.
5. Describe the relative properties of the component liquids and powders of
dental cements.
6. Explain the setting reaction of a typical dental cement.
7. Based on the properties of the liquid and the powder, discuss the
properties of:
• Zinc oxide–eugenol (ZOE) cement
• Zinc phosphate cement
• Polycarboxylate cement
• Glass ionomer cement
• Composite cement
• Calcium hydroxide base
8. Summarize the mixing process for the first four cements in objective #7 and
how it relates to the setting reaction.
9. Describe the use and advantages of a composite cement.

Objectives Chapter 8
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Describe the use of impression materials during indirect restorative
procedures.
2. List the oral structures from which impressions are made.
3. Differentiate between a model, a cast, and a die.
4. Describe the various types of impression trays.
5. List the desirable qualities of an impression material.
6. Differentiate between:
• Elastic and inelastic impression materials
• Reversible and irreversible impression materials
7. Describe the composition and setting mechanism of:
• Wax and impression compound
• Zinc oxide–eugenol (ZOE)
• Agar or reversible hydrocolloid
• Alginate
• Polysulfides
• Condensation silicones
• Polyethers
• Addition silicones
8. Compare the properties, use, and cost of the above impression materials.
9. Describe the effect of water temperature on the setting rate of alginate.
10. Describe the effect of water and heat on the setting rate of polysulfides

Objectives Chapter 9
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Define the following terms: study model, cast, and die.
2. Discuss the major differences between dental plaster, stone, and improved
stone.
3. Explain the meaning of initial and final setting times.
4. Give three examples of how to increase and decrease the setting times of
gypsum products.
5. Discuss wet and dry strength as it relates to gypsum products.
6. Summarize the recommended technique for use of gypsum products for
measuring, mixing, and filling the impression. Include hand and vacuum
mixing.

Objectives Chapter 10
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Discuss the factors that affect treatment planning for a fixed indirect
restoration.
2. Explain the lost-wax casting process used in dentistry to make metal
restorations.
3. Describe the types of alloys used to make all-metal crowns, ceramometal
crowns, and partial denture frameworks.
4. Recall the types of porcelain used to simulate the color of teeth.
5. List the advantages and disadvantages of all-metal, ceramometal, and allceramic
restorations.

Objectives Chapter 11
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. List the uses of acrylic resins in dentistry.
2. Explain the physical and chemical stages of polymerization of acrylic resins.
3. Describe the function of the components of heat-cure and cold-cure acrylic
resin systems.
4. Describe the steps involved in construction of a denture.
5. Summarize the procedures used to reline a denture.
6. Explain a dental hygienist’s role in maintenance of an acrylic prosthesis.

Objectives Chapter 12
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. List the indications and contraindications for dental implants.
2. Describe the materials used for dental implants.
3. Recall the types and uses of dental implants.
4. Describe osseointegration.
5. Discuss the maintenance of dental implants.

Objectives Chapter 13
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Describe the components of a fixed orthodontic appliance.
2. Discuss the caries risk of orthodontic patients and the dental hygienist’s role
in preventing caries and periodontal disease in these patients.
3. Summarize the procedures involved in root canal therapy.
4. Explain the use of periodontal packs and sutures.

Objectives Chapter 14
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Using the criteria listed in Table 14.1, differentiate between porcelain and
composite materials.
2. Discuss how the following criteria may help a clinician to distinguish
between tooth tissues and restorative materials or between two types of
restorative materials:
• Radiographic characteristics
• Surface smoothness
• Tactile and auditory sensations
• Location
3. Distinguish between other tooth tissues and restorative materials by using
the criteria listed in Table 14.1.
4. Describe some common procedures routinely performed by a dental
hygienist that could be detrimental to teeth and restorative materials.
5. Verbally compare the expected differences in the surfaces of enamel and a
gold crown after polishing with a relatively abrasive agent.
6. Recall the recommended instrumentation technique around the margins of
cast restorations.
7. Explain the causes of possible damage to restorations from the use of
high-speed instrumentation.
8. Propose a possible scaling-and-polishing protocol for a patient with the
following oral findings:
• 4 mm of recessed gingiva
• Class V glass ionomer restorations in the maxillary left quadrant
• Two gold crowns in the mandibular right quadrant
• Three composite restorations in the maxillary anterior segment

Objectives Chapter 15
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Identify various dental tissues and materials on a radiograph.
2. Explain why, radiographically, dental tissues and materials appear
radiopaque or radiolucent.
3. Integrate the radiographic appearance of dental tissues and materials with
clinical information to assess the patient’s status of health or disease.

Objectives Chapter 16
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Briefly define the following terms:
• Cutting
• Abrasion
• Finishing
• Polishing
• Abrasive
2. Recall six common abrasives that may be used for clinical or laboratory procedures.
3. Summarize factors that may influence the rate of abrasion, and explain why
the dental hygienist must have a clear understanding of these factors when
providing patient care.
4. Discuss the reasons why tooth structure and restorations are polished.
5. Recall the details of the polishing process. Include the series of steps,
scratches produced, and wavelength of visible light.
6. Explain what it means to selectively polish.
7. Describe the characteristics of an acceptable prophylaxis paste.

Objectives Chapter 17
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Define tooth whitening, and explain the difference between vital and nonvital
tooth whitening.
2. Explain the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic stains, and list examples
of each.
3. Identify two chemical agents used for vital tooth whitening, and explain the
process by which whitening agents whiten teeth.
4. Identify two chemical agents used for nonvital tooth whitening.
5. List the factors that affect the success of tooth whitening.
6. Compare and contrast patient-applied and professionally applied vital
whitening.
7. List contraindications for both patient-applied and professionally applied
tooth whitening procedures.
8. Discuss measures to prevent or alleviate tooth whitening side effects.

Objectives Chapter 18
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. List the different oral appliances used in dentistry.
2. Describe the reasons for the use of oral appliances.
3. Name the different thermoplastic materials used in the fabrication of oral
appliances, and discuss the properties of these materials.
4. Explain the steps involved in fabricating an oral appliance.
5. Describe the proper maintenance of oral appliances.
6. Prepare a script or dialogue that may be used for patient education regarding
oral appliances.

Objectives Chapter 19
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Explain the basic differences between carbon-steel and stainless-steel
instruments.
2. Discuss the processes of passivation and electropolishing.
3. Summarize the problems or conditions that can affect instruments, including
corrosion, rust, pitting, spotting, and stains.
4. Explain why it is important to inspect instruments.
5. Explain the reasons for sharpening instruments, and determine the appropriate
time and frequency of sharpening.
6. Discuss the cleaning of instruments, both immediately after use and when
timely cleaning is not possible.
7. Recall the advantages and disadvantages of the four methods of sterilizing
instruments.
8. Design an instrument maintenance schedule or cycle that could be used
routinely in a private-practice office setting.

Objectives Chapter 20
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Describe safety and risk in terms of common hazards in everyday life and
work in a dental office.
2. Define and appreciate the practice of universal precautions in dentistry.
3. Identify the types of personal protective equipment (PPE) that must be
used for the practice of dentistry in the operatory and laboratory.
4. Explain the criteria for selection of PPE during dental procedures.
5. Determine the methods of sterilization or disinfection that can be used to
decontaminate each type of instrument or item in the dental operatory or
laboratory.
6. Evaluate surface disinfectants that may be used in the dental office.
7. Recall the methods that may be used to prevent cross-contamination during
distribution of dental supplies.
8. Describe effective ways to manage contamination caused by aerosols and
splatter.
9. Discuss safe handling and disposal of sharp items contaminated with
blood or saliva.
10. Appreciate the significance of an office exposure control plan and protocol
for managing exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
11. Describe the infectious, physical, and chemical hazards in a dental office.
12. Recognize office and laboratory housekeeping practices that contribute to
infection control and safety.

Objectives Chapter 21
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Describe an effective infection-control protocol for handling impressions
and dental appliances that are transferred between the dental operatory
and the dental laboratory within the dental office or to an outside
commercial laboratory.
2. Discuss and demonstrate the procedure for disinfecting dental impressions.
3. Explain and demonstrate the procedure for disinfecting dentures and other
dental appliances after they have been processed or adjusted.
4. Describe and apply the infection-control protocol that must be followed
when grinding or polishing dentures and other appliances.
5. Review the preferred method (or methods) of sterilizing or disinfecting
instruments or items used during manipulation of dental materials and
prostheses.

Objectives Chapter 22
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Give reasons why correct dispensing, timing, and mixing of materials are
important.
2. Discuss the difference in setting times of dental materials in the oral cavity
and on the instrument tray.
3. Summarize the recommended guidelines for light-activated dental materials.

Objectives Chapter 23
After performing the laboratory/clinical exercises in this chapter, the student will
be able to do the following:
1. Describe the use or purpose of the following materials:
• Calcium hydroxide
• Zinc phosphate
• Glass ionomer
• Zinc oxide–eugenol (ZOE)
• Temporary cement
2. Demonstrate the proper mixing technique for the materials listed above,
and then evaluate the mix according to the criteria stated in this chapter.
3. Recall the approximate mixing and setting times for the liners, bases, and
cements discussed in this chapter.
4. Clean the cement spatula or mixing instrument and slab with the appropriate
cleaning agent before the material sets.

Objectives Chapter 24
After performing the laboratory/clinical exercises in this chapter, the student will
be able to do the following:
1. List the indications and contraindications for placing the rubber dam.
2. Describe the purpose of the rubber dam armamentarium (rubber dam,
rubber dam clamp, punch, etc.).
3. Summarize the steps for placement and removal of the rubber dam.

Objectives Chapter 25
After performing the laboratory/clinical exercises in this chapter, the student will
be able to do the following:
1. Discuss the factors determining the success of a sealant.
2. List the indications and contraindications for applying a sealant.
3. Describe the acceptable, but different, methods for preparing the enamel
surface for a sealant.
4. Summarize the steps of applying a sealant.
5. Evaluate a placed sealant regarding proper isolation, coverage, and defects.
6. Explain the importance of recall visits for sealant maintenance.
7. Professionally speak to a parent of a child who is in need of sealants.
Include in the discussion the rationale, procedure, time involved, and
prognosis.

Objectives Chapter 26
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Explain the rationale for amalgam finishing and polishing.
2. Recall the benefits of properly finished and polished amalgams.
3. List two indications for finishing and polishing amalgams.
4. Discuss the possible results of poor amalgam placement and carving.
5. Assess an amalgam restoration to determine whether it needs replacement
or finishing and polishing.
6. Differentiate between the procedures of amalgam finishing and amalgam
polishing.
7. Explain the importance of temperature control and related factors during
finishing and polishing.
8. Evaluate a well-finished and polished amalgam according to the criteria
provided in this chapter.

Objectives Chapter 27
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Select the appropriate tray for the patient by using the criteria listed in this
chapter.
2. Prepare the impression trays with rope wax, including the palatal area of
the maxillary tray.
3. Discuss the aspects of patient preparation for alginate impressions.
4. Demonstrate proper mixing of the alginate as well as loading, seating, and
removal of the tray to obtain acceptable alginate impressions.
5. Evaluate the impression by using the criteria listed in this chapter, and
determine if the impression is acceptable.

Objectives Chapter 28
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Demonstrate the following laboratory procedures:
• Use a gypsum product to pour a study model from an impression.
• Trim the study model on the model trimmer.
2. Differentiate between the two methods of diagnostic cast/study model
fabrication.
3. Describe and demonstrate the cast cuts that are used to trim a study model
for patient consultation and dental treatment planning.
4. Explain the laboratory safety procedures and necessary equipment for use
in the laboratory mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration.
5. Critique the completed study model for acceptable cuts.

Objectives Chapter 29
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. List the differences between the acrylic resin and visible light–cured (VLC)
tray fabrication techniques.
2. Briefly describe the characteristics of an exothermic reaction.
3. Name the three purposes of an impression tray.
4. Recall the four reasons why a dentist may choose to fabricate a custom tray
for a patient rather than use a stock tray.
5. Explain the purpose of the occlusal stops that are designed in a custom
impression tray.
6. Discuss two methods of trimming a custom tray.

Objectives Chapter 30
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Briefly discuss the rationale for dental hygienists to learn the preparation
and technique of addition silicone impression material.
2. Recall the reasons for using addition silicone impression material.
3. Explain the tray preparation that is necessary for use of addition silicone
impression material.
4. Summarize the steps involved in:
• Preparing the putty (tray) material
• Preparing the wash (syringe) material

Objectives Chapter 31
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. List the indications and contraindications for use of patient-applied, professionally
supervised whitening technique.
2. List the indications and contraindications for professionally applied power
whitening techniques.
3. Outline the steps in the clinical phase of patient-applied, professionally
supervised vital whitening technique.
4. Identify the essential elements of home care instruction for the patient
using the professionally supervised, self-applied technique.
5. Outline the steps in construction of the whitening tray, and identify the
equipment and materials used.
6. Outline the steps in the professionally applied power whitening technique.
Identify the equipment and materials used.

Objectives Chapter 32
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Explain the rationale for removing composite adhesive resin from the teeth
following orthodontic treatment.
2. Discuss the clinical objectives for debonding.
3. Describe the effects of using improper debonding techniques or materials
on enamel.
4. Demonstrate each step in the debonding procedure.
5. Self-evaluate the effectiveness of the debonding procedure.
6. Explain three follow-up considerations to be discussed with the newly
debonded orthodontic patient.

Objectives Chapter 33
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Correctly dispense and mix a periodontal dressing.
2. Properly apply the dressing.
3. Differentiate between four types of periodontal dressings.

Objectives Chapter 34
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Remove a surgical dressing without damage to the oral tissues.
2. Debride both hard and soft tissues after dressing removal.
3. Remove all placed sutures without contamination of or damage to the tissues.
4. List the items to record in the patient’s chart.
5. Identify and name common suture patterns used in dentistry, and give an
example of their application.
6. Describe the classification of suture materials.

Objectives Chapter 35
After studying this chapter, the student will be able to do the following:
1. Describe the reasons for placing a temporary crown.
2. Describe the materials used to construct temporary crowns.
3. Describe a method to make a temporary crown with acrylic resin.

Objectiv

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