Orthodontics (VZK_001)
About Study Course
Objective
Course aim – to provide students with knowledge of the growth and development of teeth, face, and jaws throughout life; the etiopathogenesis of orthodontic abnormalities; and the principles of diagnosis and orthodontic treatment. The course aims to develop students’ ability to identify morphofunctional disorders, assess the need for treatment and referral to an orthodontist, advise patients in cases of premature tooth loss and dental trauma, and function effectively as members of an interdisciplinary healthcare team involving an orthodontist. Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to perform specific procedures within the scope of interceptive orthodontics.
Prerequisites
Medical genetics, human molecular biology, normal physiology, clinical pharmacology in dentistry, internal diseases with propedeutics, human anatomy, dental anatomy, embryology, histology, maxillofacial surgery, oral surgery, pathology, psychosomatic medicine and psychotherapy, biostatistics, prosthodontics and clinic, dental and maxillofacial diagnostic radiology, prophylaxis in dentistry, endodontics: preclinical and clinical course, periodontology preclinical and clinical course, paediatric dentistry, restorative dentistry, cariology, biomaterials in dentistry, contact culture in dentistry, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, paediatric maxillofacial surgery, otorhinolaryngology for a dentist, paediatrics.
Learning outcomes
1.The student will acquire knowledge of the normal growth, development, and maturation of the craniofacial complex, as well as an understanding of pathological development and the influence of normal and impaired function on the dentofacial system. The student will understand the most common congenital syndromes affecting the craniofacial region. Knowledge of imaging diagnostic methods used in orthodontics and the principles of diagnosing dentofacial anomalies will be acquired.
General knowledge of the basic principles of treating dental and jaw anomalies in children, adolescents, and adults, as well as the fundamental principles of orthodontic treatment planning, including general knowledge of mechanical and functional appliances used in orthodontics, clear aligner therapy. The knowledge about the management of dental trauma will also be obtained.
The student will acquire knowledge of occlusal deformities associated with premature tooth loss, interdisciplinary principles of orthodontic treatment, and the specific features of orthodontic treatment in adult patients. In addition, the student will gain knowledge of iatrogenic factors in orthodontic treatment, retention of treatment outcomes, and the risk of relapse.
At the level of understanding, the student will learn about interceptive orthodontic measures
1.Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:
• analyze craniofacial growth and assess clinically significant deviations in facial and jaw development;
• identify adverse factors affecting occlusal development, including tooth germ absence or anomalies, and predict their impact on occlusion;
• locate and utilize information on congenital craniofacial syndromes;
• collect medical and dental history for orthodontic treatment planning;
• perform clinical documentation, including photographing the face and occlusion for clinical purposes;
• plan and apply space maintainers and orthodontic bands;
• provide evidence-based information to patients or caregivers about the principles of orthodontic treatment and related issues;
• critically evaluate literature sources and analyze scientific articles;
• manage emergency situations in orthodontics;
• collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
1.Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be competent to:
• apply classification systems for identifying dental, facial, and jaw anomalies;
• plan, fabricate, and maintain space maintainers;
• create and evaluate orthodontic diagnostic models;
• plan, insert, and adjust removable active appliances to correct single-tooth or crossbite malocclusions and vacuum-pressed retainers;
• identify harmful oral habits that may contribute to malocclusion, prevent their consequences, educate patients, and, if necessary, provide treatment;
• support the orthodontist during orthodontic treatment by motivating patients, maintaining oral hygiene, and explaining the principles of orthodontic care;
• assess the risk of occlusal anomalies following premature tooth extraction;
• understand the orthodontist’s role in dental trauma management;
• respond appropriately in all types of orthodontic emergencies, including referral to a specialist when required;
• assist in post-treatment retention procedures and help ensure long-term stability of orthodontic outcomes;
• collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary team, demonstrating professional responsibility and patient-centered care.
