Courses Descriptions
First Year: First Semester
DPR601 - Prosthodontics I
Prosthodontics I is an advanced course on fixed dental prostheses, focusing on evidence-based decision-making (EBDM), fabrication techniques, and patient-centered treatment planning. Students will explore psychological factors, communication strategies, and ethical considerations to enhance patient care and compliance. Through lectures, discussions, seminars, and assignments, students will analyze prosthodontic workflows, assess emerging technologies, and develop the skills needed to establish interdisciplinary treatment plans.
DPR602 - Advanced Dental Biomaterials
The Advanced Dental Biomaterials course provides an in-depth exploration of contemporary dental materials used in modern prosthetic dentistry, focusing on their composition, properties, and clinical applications. Students will critically evaluate a range of dental materials, with particular emphasis on their physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. The course offers comprehensive analysis of material structure and setting behavior, highlighting their relevance to clinical performance. In addition, students will be introduced to current research trends, developing skills in the critical appraisal of scientific literature. By the end of the course, students will possess a solid theoretical foundation to support informed, evidence-based decisions regarding the selection and use of dental biomaterials in daily prosthodontic practice.
DPR603 - Endodontics for Prosthodontic Specialists
Endodontics for Prosthodontic Specialists offers a focused understanding of essential endodontic principles critical to achieving long-term success in prosthetic restorations. The course bridges the gap between prosthodontics and endodontics, enabling prosthodontists to manage teeth requiring endodontic intervention more effectively. It covers key diagnostic procedures, including pain assessment, differential diagnosis, vital pulp therapy, regenerative endodontics, and dental trauma management. Contemporary endodontic techniques and materials are explored, with attention to coronal sealing methods and treatment planning. Students will also learn to manage complications such as ledges, broken instruments, and perforations, while being introduced to advanced diagnostic tools like CBCT and endodontic microsurgery. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to incorporate endodontic principles into prosthodontic care, ensuring optimal patient outcomes and long-term success.
DPR604 - Esthetic Dentistry
This advanced course explores the latest innovations in esthetic dentistry, equipping postgraduate students with expertise in comprehensive color science, digital smile design, deep margin elevation, direct and indirect restorations, and cutting-edge adhesive protocols and teeth whitening. Through lectures, discussions, seminars, and assignments, students will unlock the future of esthetic dentistry, where science meets artistry, and develop superior treatment planning skills. Emphasizing evidence-based techniques, the course integrates modern solutions and minimally invasive treatments to enhance both esthetic and functional outcomes.
DPR605 - Research Methods
The course considers the nature of scientific knowledge and investigates various processes involved in research. Both the quantitative and qualitative approaches will be studied. The course covers the sources of knowledge, the scientific method in research, and the ethics of research. The important steps in planning a research project and measurement tools necessary for conducting a research project will be covered. The course also discusses the considerations involved in writing a research report.
DPR606 - Biostatistics
This course is comprised of lectures designed to aid the student to expand their knowledge of the basic principles of statistics as it applies to the understanding and interpretation of the medical/dental literature. The emphasis of this course is on the application of statistical tests commonly employed in health research and the interpretation of their results. This enables the student to critically evaluate dental and medical research.
DPR607 - Simulated Clinical Skills
This course covers advanced prosthodontic skills in two crucial settings: real clinical environments and pre-clinical simulation settings. In the real clinical setting, the focus includes ergonomics, charting, clinical photography, aesthetic analysis, extended functional analyses, and treatment planning. Emphasis is placed on integrating digital tools such as Digital Smile Design (DSD), Photoshop, 3Shape, Planmeca, Exocad, Cerec (Sirona), CBCT, and MRI into diagnosis and treatment. The course also addresses the use of face bow (conventional and digital), semi- and fully-adjustable articulators, the implementation of DC-TMD protocols and digital occlusal analyses. Additionally, safety, patient communication, and infection control are key components of the syllabus. In the pre-clinical simulation settings, students will first master the use of the microscope and perform endodontic treatments. They will also learn post and core techniques using both conventional and digital approaches, addressing perforations with strategies for prevention and repair. The course includes diagnostic wax-ups for anterior teeth, extra-coronal and intra-coronal tooth preparations, and the fabrication of crowns and bridges using conventional and CAD/CAM technology. Students will gain experience in removable prosthodontics, complete and partial dentures, and practice dental implantology, including planning, placement, and suturing techniques. Finally, they will work on maxillofacial prostheses. Above all, the course emphasizes reflective and self-directed learning as a means to cultivate professional independence and lifelong development.
First Year: Second Semester
DPR608 - Prosthodontics II
Prosthodontics II is a comprehensive and advanced theoretical course designed to deepen students' understanding of prosthodontic principles and practices related to complete and partial removable dentures. Students will explore and evaluate a wide range of treatment options, integrating both conventional techniques and emerging CAD/CAM technologies in removable prosthodontics. Emphasis is placed on digital dentistry applications, including virtual design, digital impressions, and both additive and subtractive manufacturing methods for removable prostheses. Core topics include the principles of impression-making, occlusal concepts, and the theoretical foundations of denture waxing, processing, insertion, and follow-up care. Students will also design and critically assess removable partial dentures (RPDs), applying classification systems, biomechanical principles, and design criteria. This course aims to provide a robust theoretical foundation in removable prosthodontics, blending digital advancements with conventional approaches to support evidence-based clinical decision-making and future professional practice.
DPR609 - Implant Dentistry I
This clinically oriented course provides in-depth didactic instruction in advanced dental implantology, emphasizing both the scientific foundations and clinical applications of contemporary techniques. It addresses diagnostic, surgical, and prosthodontic procedures essential for comprehensive implant-based rehabilitation. Core topics include histological and physiological principles, biomaterials and biomechanics relevant to implant dentistry, types of dental implants, and their respective indications and contraindications. A central focus is placed on developing sound clinical judgment and the ability to formulate appropriate, patient-centered treatment plans. Students will gain a thorough understanding of implant placement protocols and prosthetic rehabilitation principles, enabling them to critically integrate evidence-based knowledge into clinical decision-making.
DPR610 - Seminars in Operative Dentistry
The course follows a seminar format and offers advanced theoretical and clinical exploration of operative dentistry, with emphasis on clinical decision-making and techniques for single-tooth direct and intra-coronal restorations. Topics include the development and progression of dental caries, detection, diagnosis, risk assessment, and evidence-based management strategies. Additional focus is placed on complex direct restorations, root caries, structural anomalies, and the criteria for restoration repair or replacement. The course also examines factors influencing the longevity and clinical success of restorations, ultimately enhancing students’ competence in delivering durable and effective operative care.
DPR611 - Periodontics for Prosthodontic Specialists
Periodontics for Prosthodontic Specialists is an advanced course designed to equip prosthodontic specialists with in-depth knowledge and clinical competence in the diagnosis and management of periodontal conditions relevant to prosthodontic care. The course emphasizes comprehensive periodontal evaluation, including the critical assessment of risk factors, establishment of prognoses, and formulation of evidence-based treatment objectives. Special focus is given to the integration of periodontal and peri-implant disease management into prosthodontic treatment planning. Therapeutic strategies and anticipated outcomes are examined within the context of interdisciplinary care. By the end of the course, students will be proficient in incorporating periodontal principles into prosthodontic protocols, thereby optimizing treatment outcomes through a collaborative, patient-centered approach.
DPR612 - Clinical Prosthodontics I
The course involves hands-on patient management and structured treatment planning conducted under the supervision of clinical instructors. Each student is assigned patients presenting with a range of complex prosthodontic needs and is responsible for performing diagnosis, developing comprehensive treatment plans, and delivering care that addresses both patient-related and clinical concerns. Due to the complexity of the cases, treatment often extends over more than one semester to ensure thorough and continuous care. By the end of the course, students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in diagnosing and planning treatment for comprehensive prosthodontic cases. All treated cases must be documented, and students are required to compile a clinical portfolio for submission at the end of the program.
Second Year: First Semester
DPR701 - Prosthodontics III
This course explores the functional anatomy of the masticatory system and temporomandibular joint (TMJ), with emphasis on occlusion and its clinical implications across various prosthodontic disciplines. Students will examine the principles of occlusal harmony and apply good occlusal practices in simple restorative procedures, as well as in fixed and removable prosthodontics, including advanced prosthodontic dentistry and implantology. The course also addresses the prosthodontic management of special patient populations, including individuals undergoing cancer treatment (resection, radiation, chemotherapy) and those requiring maxillofacial prostheses or rehabilitation of mandibular defects. Additional topics include the dental management of sleep-related disorders, prosthodontic considerations in geriatric care, and the integration of digital technologies in modern prosthodontics. A multidisciplinary approach is employed to enhance students’ competence in managing complex clinical scenarios through evidence-based, patient-centered care.
DPR702 - Advanced Seminar in Prosthodontics
This seminar-based course trains students to analyze, appraise, and synthesize classical and contemporary literature in fixed and removable prosthodontics. It emphasizes a systematic approach to treatment planning, including decisions on tooth preservation or extraction, pre-prosthodontic surgical preparation, prosthesis design, and the management of partially edentulous patients. Additionally, the course addresses clinical conditions such as tooth wear, allergy to dental materials, and oral discomfort, enhancing students’ critical thinking and promoting evidence-based, patient-centered prosthodontic care.
DPR703 - Research Proposal
This course represents the initial stage of the thesis component in the Doctorate of Clinical Dentistry in Prosthodontics (DClinDent – Prosthodontics) program. Under the supervision of full-time faculty members, students identify a clinically and scientifically significant research problem and develop a research proposal that demonstrates originality, scientific merit, and methodological rigor. Students are required to conduct a critical review of the relevant literature, formulate research questions or hypotheses, and design an appropriate research methodology while adhering to ethical and research governance requirements. The proposal should demonstrate the potential to contribute new knowledge and advance clinical practice within prosthodontics and related disciplines.
DPR704 - Clinical Prosthodontics II
In Clinical Prosthodontics II, students continue patient management with a focus on advancing their clinical competence and critical thinking. Under the guidance of clinical instructors, students are expected to make demonstrable progress in completing treatments and managing more complex prosthodontic cases. Increasing independence and self-directed learning are essential outcomes at this stage. Each student must regularly review their case portfolio with the course coordinator to ensure a sufficient number and diversity of cases are being addressed in alignment with program graduation requirements. All treated cases must be thoroughly documented and maintained for inclusion in the clinical portfolio, which is to be submitted upon completion of the clinical component of the program.
Second Year: Second Semester
DPR705 - Implant Dentistry II
This course addresses advanced surgical and prosthodontic procedures in implant dentistry. Students will perform comprehensive implant risk assessments and apply evidence-based protocols for implant placement, and loading. Key surgical topics include advanced alveolar bone grafting, soft tissue grafting, and maxillary sinus lift techniques. The course also explores complex restorative scenarios such as implant-supported removable prostheses, tooth-implant-supported restorations, implants in esthetic zone, tilted implants, All-on-4 concepts, and the use of short and narrow implants. Students will gain the knowledge to manage implant complications, perform maintenance, and remove implants when necessary. Emphasis is placed on clinical decision-making, surgical precision, and long-term functional and esthetic outcomes.
DPR706 - Thesis Preparation I
This course constitutes the second phase of the thesis component in the Doctorate of Clinical Dentistry in Prosthodontics (DClinDent – Prosthodontics) program. During this stage, students are expected to have completed a comprehensive literature review and obtained all required ethical and institutional approvals. Students conduct a pilot study to evaluate the feasibility, validity, and appropriateness of the proposed methodology, materials, and research procedures. Findings from the pilot study are critically analyzed to identify methodological limitations, logistical challenges, and potential sources of bias. Students are required to justify any modifications to the research design based on pilot outcomes and current scientific evidence. Emphasis is placed on protocol refinement, methodological rigor, ethical conduct of research, and preparation for the successful implementation of the main research project.
DPR707 - Clinical Prosthodontics III
In Clinical Prosthodontics III, students continue the treatment of patients under the supervision of clinical instructors while engaging in detailed discussion and critical evaluation of treatment plans. At this stage, students are expected to demonstrate advanced proficiency in diagnosis, comprehensive treatment planning, and the clinical management of patients with complex prosthodontic needs. Progress should be evident in the completion of more advanced clinical cases. Each student is required to regularly review their clinical cases with the course coordinator to ensure a sufficient number and variety of prosthodontic cases are being managed to meet graduation requirements. Comprehensive documentation and maintenance of all treated cases is mandatory, as this portfolio will form part of the final submission for the clinical practice component of the program.
Third Year: First Semester
DPR801 - Thesis Preparation II
This course constitutes the third phase of the thesis component in the Doctorate of Clinical Dentistry in Prosthodontics (DClinDent – Prosthodontics) program. During this stage, students undertake the main research project through systematic sample recruitment or preparation, data collection, data management, and preliminary analysis. Students are expected to demonstrate increasing independence in implementing approved research protocols while ensuring scientific rigor, reproducibility, and compliance with ethical standards. Emphasis is placed on the accurate acquisition and documentation of research data, critical evaluation of emerging findings, troubleshooting research challenges, and maintaining the quality and integrity of the research process. The course supports the development of advanced research competencies required for the generation of original and clinically relevant knowledge in prosthodontics and related disciplines.
DPR802 - Clinical Prosthodontics IV
This is the fourth clinical practice course in the program. Students continue providing comprehensive prosthodontic care and engaging in treatment planning discussions under the supervision of clinical instructors. At this stage, students are expected to demonstrate an advanced level of independence, clinical judgment, and reflective, self-directed learning. Progress should be evident in the management and completion of additional complex prosthodontic cases. Each student must regularly review their clinical caseload with the course coordinator to ensure a sufficient number and variety of cases are being addressed in alignment with graduation requirements. Complete documentation of all treated cases must be maintained, as these records will contribute to the final clinical portfolio required at the conclusion of the program's clinical component.
DPR803 - Preclinical - Clinical Teaching
This non-credit course provides postgraduate students with structured teaching experience in pre-clinical or clinical prosthodontic settings. By assuming the role of a teaching assistant, each student actively participates in the transfer of scientific knowledge and the demonstration of fundamental prosthodontic skills. This experience strengthens their ability to communicate complex concepts, facilitate learning, and model professional standards for undergraduate students. In addition to reinforcing technical and instructional competencies, the course cultivates leadership, educational governance, and accountability in decision-making. Under the supervision of full-time faculty, students are assigned to teaching sessions throughout the semester, where they assist in guiding and supervising undergraduate learners in pre-clinical laboratories or clinical environments. This engagement prepares students for future roles in academic, clinical, and professional leadership within the field of prosthodontics.
Third Year: Second Semester
DPR804 - Thesis Preparation III
This course constitutes the fourth phase of the thesis component in the Doctorate of Clinical Dentistry in Prosthodontics (DClinDent – Prosthodontics) program. During this stage, students continue the main research project through ongoing data collection, data management, and analysis while ensuring adherence to the approved research protocol and ethical standards. Students are expected to demonstrate increasing independence in addressing research challenges, maintaining data quality, and critically evaluating emerging findings. Emphasis is placed on the completion of data acquisition, refinement of analytical procedures, and preparation for comprehensive interpretation of the research outcomes. The course supports the development of advanced research competencies required for the successful completion of the doctoral thesis.
DPR805 - Clinical Prosthodontics V
This is the fifth clinical practice course in the program. Students continue to manage and treat patients under the supervision of clinical instructors, with an emphasis on refining their clinical competence and decision-making. At this stage, students are expected to demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the clinical management of complex prosthodontic cases, alongside advanced independence, professionalism, and reflective self-directed learning.
Fourth Year: First Semester
DPR901 - Thesis Preparation IV
This doctoral research course focuses on the completion of data analysis, interpretation of findings, and critical synthesis of research outcomes. Students evaluate the scientific and clinical significance of their findings within the context of contemporary literature and assess their contribution to existing knowledge in prosthodontics and related disciplines. Emphasis is placed on critical appraisal of results, formulation of evidence-based conclusions, and the development of a coherent scholarly narrative integrating the study rationale, methodology, results, and interpretations. Students are also expected to prepare manuscripts suitable for publication in peer-reviewed journals. The course emphasizes scientific rigor, independent scholarship, ethical research conduct, and the translation of research findings into advanced clinical practice.
DPR902 - Clinical Prosthodontics VI
This advanced clinical course focuses on the comprehensive diagnosis, treatment planning, execution, and evaluation of highly complex prosthodontic and implant rehabilitation cases. Students manage patients presenting with advanced restorative, occlusal, esthetic, and implant challenges requiring interdisciplinary collaboration and sophisticated clinical decision-making. Emphasis is placed on the management of cases with an increasing degree of clinical autonomy, independent specialist practice, support of junior trainees, management of treatment complications, integration of advanced digital technologies, evidence-based clinical judgment, and the delivery of predictable long-term treatment outcomes consistent with advanced standards of prosthodontic care.
DPR903 - Clinical Teaching
This non-credit course provides doctoral students with structured clinical teaching experience within undergraduate and/or postgraduate prosthodontic education. Under the supervision of academic staff, students participate in clinical teaching activities, including demonstration of clinical procedures, supervision of patient care, facilitation of clinical discussions, provision of formative feedback, and support of learners in achieving clinical competencies. The course promotes the development of effective communication, educational professionalism, clinical leadership, and supervisory skills while fostering an understanding of contemporary principles of health professions education. Through active engagement in the clinical learning environment, students develop the competencies required for future academic and specialist practice roles.
Fourth Year: Second Semester
DPR904 - Thesis Preparation V
This final doctoral research course represents the culmination of the thesis component in the Doctorate of Clinical Dentistry in Prosthodontics (DClinDent – Prosthodontics) program. Students finalize and submit a doctoral thesis that demonstrates original scholarship and contributes new knowledge to prosthodontics and related disciplines. The thesis comprehensively documents the research process, including the literature review, problem statement, methodology, results, discussion, conclusions, limitations, clinical implications, and references. Students are expected to critically evaluate and defend their research before an academic examination committee, respond effectively to scholarly critique, and address examiner feedback where required. Emphasis is placed on independent scholarship, research leadership, critical inquiry, effective scientific communication, and the dissemination of research findings through publications and professional presentations. The course consolidates the advanced knowledge, research competencies, autonomy, ethical responsibility, and professional attributes expected of graduates of a doctoral-level clinical prosthodontics program.
DPR905 - Clinical Prosthodontics VII
This capstone clinical course represents the culmination of doctoral clinical training and focuses on the independent management of complex prosthodontic rehabilitations. Students demonstrate advanced competence in diagnosis, treatment planning, execution, and maintenance of multidisciplinary prosthodontic cases with a high degree of clinical autonomy while evaluating treatment outcomes, supporting junior trainees, and integrating contemporary evidence and digital technologies into clinical practice. Emphasis is placed on advanced clinical decision-making, management of treatment complications, clinical leadership, and the development of competencies expected of clinicians progressing toward consultant-level prosthodontic practice.