DOH133 Oral Microbiology (8)

This subject introduces micro-organisms, their characteristics and how they affect humans. Cultivation, enumeration, identification and control of micro-organisms are emphasised. Mechanisms by which medically important micro-organisms cause disease are introduced. The concepts of infection, inflammation and immunology are introduced in this subject. Infection control procedures are discussed in theory and applied in laboratory classes. An understanding of normal oral flora is developed in the subject. Hypotheses of oral disease aetiology, including specific, non-specific and ecological plaque hypotheses, are critically evaluated with respect to current peer-reviewed research findings. Practical skills developed in laboratory classes are used to solve dentistry-related case-based problems in a way that encourages independent, critical and reflective thinking.

Availability

Session 2 (60)
On Campus
Orange Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: DOH133. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Dentistry and Health Sciences

Enrolment Restrictions

Restricted to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Dental Science

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to describe the structure and function of micro-organisms;
  • be able to apply practical skills in microscopy, enumeration, isolation and culture of micro-organisms;
  • be able to describe and demonstrate how micro-organisms can be identified by biochemical and molecular methods;
  • be able to demonstrate knowledge of the means by which the growth of micro-organisms can be controlled, including managing the spread of infection in dental clinical practice;
  • be able to demonstrate a good understanding of the interactions of micro-organisms with humans with particular emphasis on the micro-organisms of importance to dental clinical practice; and
  • be able to explain, critically analyse and discuss current hypotheses of oral disease, including the specific, non-specific and ecological plaque hypotheses.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Foundations of microbiology;
  • Microscopy and staining;
  • Cell structure;
  • Microbial metabolism;
  • Microbial growth;
  • Control of microbial growth;
  • Microbial genetics;
  • Mycology;
  • Virus, viroids, prions and parasites;
  • Principles of disease and epidemiology;
  • Mechanisms of pathogenicity;
  • Immunology;
  • Normal oral flora;
  • The microbiology of dental caries; and
  • Periodontal disease.

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of DOH133 in Session 2 2020. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Mini tests 1-5 (online)
40
2
Lab presentation: the pathology of oral infections
20
3
Final exam
40

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2021. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

Back