Doctor of Med in Dentistry

This course establishes the foundation of normal oral histology, embryology, and the surrounding extraoral and intraoral structures. Topics include the embryologic development and related histology of the orofacial structures, which is a fundamental element in the oral health science and provides the background for Oral Pathology, Operative Dentistry, Endodontics, and Periodontics. 

This course introduces students to the structure and function of the healthcare system. The course will also lay the groundwork in establishing the student as a lifelong learner who will uphold the professional and ethical standards of the Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry

This course is continuous, throughout the D1 and D2 year (I - VI) with integrated didactic and laboratory components to take the student from dental materials, dental morphology and occlusion, basic through advanced clinical dentistry including radiology, oral medicine, nutrition, periodontics, rotary endodontics, cariology, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics including CAD/CAM and implant dentistry, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery including temporomandibular function and dysfunction, pediatric dentistry, and orthodontics including Invisalign while utilizing case-studies and an evidence-based approach to simulate patient cases and treatment. Students will participate in simulated clinical competency evaluations, including radiographic interpretation and diagnosis, oral health sciences, oral medicine, and treatment planning while developing the psychomotor skills necessary to practice Comprehensive General Dentistry.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to dental morphology, focusing on the structure, function, and identification of human dentition. Through an integrated approach combining didactic lectures, case-based discussions, and hands-on laboratory experiences, students develop foundational knowledge of tooth anatomy and occlusion. Emphasis is placed on accurate tooth identification, anatomical terminology, and the replication of natural tooth form through waxing exercises. The course fosters critical thinking and preclinical skill development, which is essential for restorative dentistry and treatment planning, serving as a foundation for subsequent clinical application.

This course is designed to provide dental students with the anatomical foundation of dentistry and entails the study of regional and systemic anatomy. Presented through didactic, case-based learning, and experiential learning pedagogy, this course focuses on conceptual anatomy, demonstrating the dental significance of anatomical structures including the skull, face, oral cavity, and cranial cavity are critical to the practice of dentistry.

This course is continuous, throughout the D1 and D2 year (I - VI) with integrated didactic and laboratory components to take the student from dental materials, dental morphology and occlusion, basic through advanced clinical dentistry including radiology, oral medicine, nutrition, periodontics, rotary endodontics, cariology, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics including CAD/CAM and implant dentistry, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery including temporomandibular function and dysfunction, pediatric dentistry, and orthodontics including Invisalign while utilizing case-studies and an evidence-based approach to simulate patient cases and treatment. Students will participate in simulated clinical competency evaluations, including radiographic interpretation and diagnosis, oral health sciences, oral medicine, and treatment planning while developing the psychomotor skills necessary to practice Comprehensive General Dentistry.

This course introduces students to the foundational principles and skills of operative dentistry. Students develop basic knowledge of caries recognition, hand instrumentation, bur selection, isolation techniques, fissurotomy, sealants, and conservative Class I operative preparation designs. Through didactic instruction and preclinical simulation exercises on typodont teeth, students begin developing the knowledge, hand skills, and clinical judgment needed for future restorative patient care.

This course introduces the student dentist to activities that offer knowledge-based information, focused on describing roles and responsibilities, and demonstrates awareness of interprofessional communication and teamwork required across the health profession. Concentrating on the interprofessional team dynamics as they relate to individual team members' values and the impact on team functioning in ethical dilemmas.

This course introduces the foundational principles of dental radiology, including radiographic physics, imaging techniques, radiation safety, and diagnostic interpretation. Students begin to develop competency in acquiring and evaluating intraoral and extraoral radiographs through didactic instruction and hands-on simulation experiences. Emphasis is placed on producing diagnostically acceptable images, recognizing anatomical structures, and applying radiation protection principles in preparation for clinical patient care.

This course is continuous throughout the D1, D2, D3, and D4 year (I - XI) and involves community service-learning theory and practice. Courses I - III focus on Health Promotion. Through Remote Area Medical, the Health Wagon, and Smile TN, students partner with non-profit agencies and programs serving the underserved populations of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and Georgia. Additionally, students will visit elementary and junior high schools to provide health promotion education to students in oral disease prevention, tobacco cessation, and drug avoidance. Student engagement, reflection, reciprocity, and public dissemination are vehicles for the implementation of service-learning. These courses are designed to enhance students' understanding of the social determinants of illness, community public health dentistry, and civic engagement.

This course is continuous throughout the D-1 and D-2 year (I – VI) with integrated didactic and laboratory components to take the student from dental materials, dental morphology and occlusion, basic through advanced clinical dentistry including radiology, oral medicine, nutrition, periodontics, rotary endodontics, cariology, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics including CAD/CAM and implant dentistry, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery including temporomandibular function and dysfunction, pediatric dentistry, and orthodontics including Invisalign while utilizing case-studies and an evidence-based approach to simulate patient cases and treatment. Students will participate in simulated clinical competency evaluations, including radiographic interpretation and diagnosis, oral health sciences, oral medicine, and treatment planning, while developing the psychomotor skills necessary to practice Comprehensive General Dentistry. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1, D-2, D-3, and D-4 years (I – XI) and involves community service-learning theory and practice. Courses I – III focus on Health Promotion. Through Remote Area Medical, the Health Wagon, and Smile TN, students partner with non-profit agencies and programs serving the underserved populations of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and Georgia. Additionally, students will visit elementary and junior high schools to provide health promotion education to students in oral disease prevention, tobacco cessation, and drug avoidance. Student engagement, reflection, reciprocity, and public dissemination are vehicles for the implementation of service- learning. These courses are designed to enhance students' understanding of the social determinants of illness, community public health dentistry, and civic engagement. 

Evidence-based dentistry (EDB) is the major theme for all courses within the dental medicine curriculum and contemporary dental practice. This course provides a foundation for students, along with an introductory working knowledge of all of the tools for EBD. 

This course is a continuation of Interprofessional Education I and introduces the student dentist to activities that offer knowledge-based information, focused on describing roles and responsibilities, and demonstrates awareness of interprofessional communication and teamwork required across the health profession—focusing on describing the student dentist's role, responsibilities, values, and scope of practice effectively to clients/patients/families and other professionals. 

This course encourages LMU College of Dental Medicine students to become involved in oral health-related research (basic, biomaterials, clinical, or behavioral) at LMU CDM. The research experience is flexible to fit the diversity of the projects and the changing goals of the students as they progress through the dental medicine curriculum. 

This course focuses on the identification and differential diagnosis of the oral pathology lesions most encountered in general dental practice and their management. Emphasis is placed on the pathology of the oral mucosa, dental tissues, and related structures. Student dentists learn about the pathogenesis, etiology, histopathological features, and diagnostic methods of a range of lesions of the teeth, oral mucosa, and jawbones, including developmental anomalies, caries, pulp, periapical, and periodontal diseases. Additionally, cystic lesions that affect the jaws and perioral soft tissues will be discussed, along with oral connective tissue lesions and epithelial lesions, most importantly, squamous cell carcinoma. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1 and D-2 year (I – VI) with integrated didactic and laboratory components to take the student from dental materials, dental morphology and occlusion, basic through advanced clinical dentistry including radiology, oral medicine, nutrition, periodontics, rotary endodontics, cariology, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics including CAD/CAM and implant dentistry, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery including temporomandibular function and dysfunction, pediatric dentistry, and orthodontics including Invisalign while utilizing case-studies and an evidence-based approach to simulate patient cases and treatment. Students will participate in simulated clinical competency evaluations, including radiographic interpretation and diagnosis, oral health sciences, oral medicine, and treatment planning, while developing the psychomotor skills necessary to practice Comprehensive General Dentistry. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1, D-2, D-3, and D-4 years (I – XI) and involves community service-learning theory and practice. Courses IV-VI focuses on Local and Global Health. Through Remote Area Medical, the Health Wagon, and Smile TN, students partner with non-profit agencies and programs serving the underserved populations of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and Georgia. Additionally, students will visit elementary and junior high schools to provide health promotion education to students in oral disease prevention, tobacco cessation, and drug avoidance. Student engagement, reflection, reciprocity, and public dissemination are vehicles for the implementation of service- learning. Students will have an opportunity to participate in humanitarian mission trips to Uganda and Belize to provide dental care to the underserved. These courses are designed to enhance students' understanding of the social determinants of illness, community public health dentistry, and civic engagement. 

Evidence-based dentistry (EDB) is the major theme for all courses within the dental medicine curriculum and contemporary comprehensive dental practice. This course discusses the integration of the dentist's clinical expertise, the patient's needs and preferences, and the most current, clinically relevant evidence as to the three-part decision- making process for patient care. 

This course will introduce students to the structure and function of the healthcare system. The course will also lay the groundwork in establishing the student as a lifelong learner that upholds the professional and ethical standards of the dentist while exposing the students to diverse populations. This will include topics in health policy, professionalism, research, and dentist-patient relationships. Included in these areas are topics such as health care organization, dental service organizations, insurance, interprofessional education, evidence-based dentistry, ethics, and malpractice. The course will include the introduction of key principles and methods of biostatistics and epidemiology that are important for the understanding of published studies. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1 and D-2 year (I – VI) with integrated didactic and laboratory components to take the student from dental materials, dental morphology and occlusion, basic through advanced clinical dentistry including radiology, oral medicine, nutrition, periodontics, rotary endodontics, cariology, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics including CAD/CAM and implant dentistry, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery including temporomandibular function and dysfunction, pediatric dentistry, and orthodontics including Invisalign while utilizing case-studies and an evidence-based approach to simulate patient cases and treatment. Students will participate in simulated clinical competency evaluations, including radiographic interpretation and diagnosis, oral health sciences, oral medicine, and treatment planning, while developing the psychomotor skills necessary to practice Comprehensive General Dentistry. 

This course is a continuation of Interprofessional Education II and introduces the student dentist to activities that offer knowledge-based information, focused on describing role and responsibilities, and demonstrates awareness of interprofessional communication and teamwork required across the health profession—focusing on the recognition and understanding of how one's uniqueness, including power and hierarchy within the IP team, contributes to communication effectiveness. 

This course provides the foundational biological and clinical principles of periodontology, focusing on the structure and function of the periodontium in health and disease. Through didactic instruction, case-based discussions, and preclinical laboratory experiences, students develop an understanding of periodontal disease etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment planning. Emphasis is placed on periodontal examination, non-surgical therapy, and integration of evidence-based decision-making to support early clinical application and patient care.

This course is continuous throughout the D-1, D-2, D-3, and D-4 years (I – XI) and involves community service-learning theory and practice. Courses IV-VI focuses on Local and Global Health. Through Remote Area Medical, the Health Wagon, and Smile TN, students partner with non-profit agencies and programs serving the underserved populations of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and Georgia. Additionally, students will visit elementary and junior high schools to provide health promotion education to students in oral disease prevention, tobacco cessation, and drug avoidance. Student engagement, reflection, reciprocity, and public dissemination are vehicles for the implementation of service- learning. Students will have an opportunity to participate in humanitarian mission trips to Uganda and Belize to provide dental care to the underserved. These courses are designed to enhance students' understanding of the social determinants of illness, community public health dentistry, and civic engagement. 

This course focuses on the unique dental and medical needs of pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients with special needs and limitations. Student dentists will develop the knowledge and skills required to provide comprehensive oral health care to this population. They will gain an understanding of the complexities and limitations, management techniques, and the role so the dentist in comprehensive oral healthcare while managing patients with mental or physical disabilities and those medically compromised. 

This course provides student dentists with the anatomy, medical considerations, pharmacology, techniques, and complications of local anesthesia in dental practice. Additional topics include the administration of nitrous oxide, oral, IM, IV, and conscious sedation, general anesthesia, along with the management of medical emergencies likely to be seen in the dental office. Students will learn how to administer local anesthesia efficiently and effectively for patient treatment 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1 and D-2 year (I – VI) with integrated didactic and laboratory components to take the student from dental materials, dental morphology and occlusion, basic through advanced clinical dentistry including radiology, oral medicine, nutrition, periodontics, rotary endodontics, cariology, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics including CAD/CAM and implant dentistry, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery including temporomandibular function and dysfunction, pediatric dentistry, and orthodontics including Invisalign while utilizing case-studies and an evidence-based approach to simulate patient cases and treatment. Students will participate in simulated clinical competency evaluations, including radiographic interpretation and diagnosis, oral health sciences, oral medicine, and treatment planning, while developing the psychomotor skills necessary to practice Comprehensive General Dentistry. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1, D-2, D-3, and D-4 years (I – XI) and involves community service-learning theory and practice. Courses IV-VI focuses on Local and Global Health. Through Remote Area Medical, the Health Wagon, and Smile TN, students partner with non-profit agencies and programs serving the underserved populations of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and Georgia. Additionally, students will visit elementary and junior high schools to provide health promotion education to students in oral disease prevention, tobacco cessation, and drug avoidance. Student engagement, reflection, reciprocity, and public dissemination are vehicles for the implementation of service- learning. Students will have an opportunity to participate in humanitarian mission trips to Uganda and Belize to provide dental care to the underserved. These courses are designed to enhance students' understanding of the social determinants of illness, community public health dentistry, and civic engagement. 

This course introduces the student dentist to the ethical and legal issues related to the practice of dentistry. Case studies are presented to determine the principles of dental ethics and jurisprudence. Review and interpretation of the Tennessee Dental Practice Act and licensure requirements are reviewed. The student dentist will be introduced to practice management, employment issues, dental office procedures, career opportunities, resume building, and effective communication as a member of the oral healthcare team. 

This course introduces the student dentist to the role of behavioral science in the study and practice of dentistry. It provides the student with an understanding of human behavior and its effects on dental treatment. Emphasis is placed on the psychobiology of inflammation and pain, oral health and quality of life, saliva health, and hypnosis in dentistry. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I – VI). Student dentists learn comprehensive patient-centered oral health care and develop clinical competency required to enter the general practice of dentistry. Student dentists will provide patient care under the supervision, guidance, and support of faculty and will enhance their diagnostic, technical, and interpersonal skills. This courses emphasize the importance of these skills in effective, efficient, and compassionate patient care and guide the students towards independent practice by evaluating competence in the delivery of specific services, providing high-quality, comprehensive care to all patients, maintaining professionalism in the delivery of care, accurately self-evaluating one's clinical performance, and practicing efficiently and profitably. Case studies include topics in evidence-based, comprehensive general dentistry, advanced radiological interpretation and diagnosis, implantology, laser dentistry, CAD/CAM dentistry, occlusion, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular dysfunction, occlusion, surgical periodontics, pharmacology, and practice management. 

This course is a continuation of Interprofessional Education III and introduces the student dentist to activities that offer knowledge-based information, focused on describing roles and responsibilities, and demonstrates awareness of interprofessional communication and teamwork required across the health profession—focusing on the practice of Interprofessional Education with respect to the science and theories behind teamwork. Including the description of the culture of the Interprofessional team that facilitates or inhibits collaboration and its constraints. And identifies instances where Interprofessional care will improve patient, family, and community outcomes. 

This course advances students’ knowledge and clinical skills in operative dentistry through the management of complex restorative cases. Emphasis is placed on diagnosis, treatment planning, and restoration of teeth using direct and indirect techniques, including subgingival restorations, esthetic procedures, and veneer preparations. Through integrated didactic instruction and simulation-based laboratory experiences, students develop critical thinking, hand skills, and clinical judgment necessary for transition to patient care.

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I – VI). Student dentists learn comprehensive patient-centered oral health care and develop clinical competency required to enter the general practice of dentistry. Student dentists will provide patient care under the supervision, guidance, and support of faculty and will enhance their diagnostic, technical, and interpersonal skills. This courses emphasize the importance of these skills in effective, efficient, and compassionate patient care and guide the students towards independent practice by evaluating competence in the delivery of specific services, providing high-quality, comprehensive care to all patients, maintaining professionalism in the delivery of care, accurately self-evaluating one's clinical performance, and practicing efficiently and profitably. Case studies include topics in evidence-based, comprehensive general dentistry, advanced radiological interpretation and diagnosis, implantology, laser dentistry, CAD/CAM dentistry, occlusion, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular dysfunction, occlusion, surgical periodontics, pharmacology, and practice management. 

This course is a continuation of Behavioral Dentistry I and facilitates the integration of the role of behavioral science in the study and practice of dentistry and provides the student with an understanding of human behavior and its effects on dental treatment. Emphasis is placed on the examination of anxiety, fear, dental and chronic orofacial pain, and then reviews techniques for designing and managing behavior change. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1, D-2, D-3, and D-4 years (I – XI) and involves community service-learning theory and practice. Courses VII-IX focus on School Districts. Through Remote Area Medical, the Health Wagon, and Smile TN, students partner with non-profit agencies and programs serving the underserved populations of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and Georgia. Additionally, students will visit elementary and junior high schools to provide health promotion education to students in oral disease prevention, tobacco cessation, and drug avoidance. Student engagement, reflection, reciprocity, and public dissemination are vehicles for the implementation of service- learning. These courses are designed to enhance students' understanding of the social determinants of illness, community public health dentistry, and civic engagement. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 year (I-III) and is a seminar review course that involves the synthesis and implementation of comprehensive treatment plans applicable to direct patient care. Emphasis is placed on collecting diagnostic data, proper sequencing of treatment steps dealing with the prevention, elimination, and control of the dental disease. Clinical patient management and practice management are incorporated into the course design. Topics will include practice management, radiology, oral medicine, internal medicine, advanced treatment planning, emergency patient care, pain management, periodontics, endodontics, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics, implantology, occlusion, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, geriatric dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and orthodontics. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I -V). It gives student dentists the broadest input on the treatment of patients with perspectives from endodontists, orthodontists, periodontists, pedodontists, prosthodontists, and oral surgeons, for the development of interdisciplinary comprehensive treatment plan. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I – VI). Student dentists learn comprehensive patient-centered oral health care and develop clinical competency required to enter the general practice of dentistry. Student dentists will provide patient care under the supervision, guidance, and support of faculty and will enhance their diagnostic, technical, and interpersonal skills. This courses emphasize the importance of these skills in effective, efficient, and compassionate patient care and guide the students towards independent practice by evaluating competence in the delivery of specific services, providing high-quality, comprehensive care to all patients, maintaining professionalism in the delivery of care, accurately self-evaluating one's clinical performance, and practicing efficiently and profitably. Case studies include topics in evidence-based, comprehensive general dentistry, advanced radiological interpretation and diagnosis, implantology, laser dentistry, CAD/CAM dentistry, occlusion, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular dysfunction, occlusion, surgical periodontics, pharmacology, and practice management. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1, D-2, D-3, and D-4 years (I – XI) and involves community service-learning theory and practice. Courses VII-IX focus on School Districts. Through Remote Area Medical, the Health Wagon, and Smile TN, students partner with non-profit agencies and programs serving the underserved populations of Tennessee, Virginia, and Georgia. Additionally, students will visit elementary and junior high schools to provide health promotion education to students in oral disease prevention, tobacco cessation, and drug avoidance. Student engagement, reflection, reciprocity, and public dissemination are vehicles for the implementation of service-learning. These courses are designed to enhance students' understanding of the social determinants of illness, community public health dentistry, and civic engagement. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 year (I-III) and is a seminar review course that involves the synthesis and implementation of comprehensive treatment plans applicable to direct patient care. Emphasis is placed on collecting diagnostic data, proper sequencing of treatment steps dealing with the prevention, elimination, and control of the dental disease. Clinical patient management and practice management are incorporated into the course design. Topics will include practice management, radiology, oral medicine, internal medicine, advanced treatment planning, emergency patient care, pain management, periodontics, endodontics, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics, implantology, occlusion, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, geriatric dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and orthodontics. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I -V). It gives student dentists the broadest input on the treatment of patients with perspectives from endodontists, orthodontists, periodontists, pedodontists, prosthodontists, and oral surgeons, for the development of interdisciplinary comprehensive treatment plan. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I – VI). Student dentists learn comprehensive patient-centered oral health care and develop clinical competency required to enter the general practice of dentistry. Student dentists will provide patient care under the supervision, guidance, and support of faculty and will enhance their diagnostic, technical, and interpersonal skills. This courses emphasize the importance of these skills in effective, efficient, and compassionate patient care and guide the students towards independent practice by evaluating competence in the delivery of specific services, providing high-quality, comprehensive care to all patients, maintaining professionalism in the delivery of care, accurately self-evaluating one's clinical performance, and practicing efficiently and profitably. Case studies include topics in evidence-based, comprehensive general dentistry, advanced radiological interpretation and diagnosis, implantology, laser dentistry, CAD/CAM dentistry, occlusion, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular dysfunction, occlusion, surgical periodontics, pharmacology, and practice management. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1, D-2, D-3, and D-4 years (I – XI) and involves community service-learning theory and practice. Courses VII-IX focus on School Districts. Through Remote Area Medical, the Health Wagon, and Smile TN, students partner with non-profit agencies and programs serving the underserved populations of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and Georgia. Additionally, students will visit elementary and junior high schools to provide health promotion education to students in oral disease prevention, tobacco cessation, and drug avoidance. Student engagement, reflection, reciprocity, and public dissemination are vehicles for the implementation of service- learning. These courses are designed to enhance students' understanding of the social determinants of illness, community public health dentistry, and civic engagement. 

This course is a continuation of Behavioral Dentistry II and facilitates the integration of the role of behavioral science in the study and practice of dentistry and provides the student with an understanding of human behavior and its effects on dental treatment. Emphasis is placed on professional practice, including care of special needs, geriatric, and diabetic patients, and interpersonal communication in dental education. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 year (I-III) and is a seminar review course that involves the synthesis and implementation of comprehensive treatment plans applicable to direct patient care. Emphasis is placed on collecting diagnostic data, proper sequencing of treatment steps dealing with the prevention, elimination, and control of dental disease. Clinical patient management and practice management are incorporated into the course design. Topics will include practice management, radiology, oral medicine, internal medicine, advanced treatment planning, emergency patient care, pain management, periodontics, endodontics, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics, implantology, occlusion, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, geriatric dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and orthodontics. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I -V). It gives student dentists the broadest input on the treatment of patients with perspectives from endodontists, orthodontists, periodontists, pedodontists, prosthodontists, and oral surgeons, for the development of interdisciplinary comprehensive treatment plan. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I – VI). Student dentists learn comprehensive patient-centered oral health care and develop clinical competency required to enter the general practice of dentistry. Student dentists will provide patient care under the supervision, guidance, and support of faculty and will enhance their diagnostic, technical, and interpersonal skills. This courses emphasize the importance of these skills in effective, efficient, and compassionate patient care and guide the students towards independent practice by evaluating competence in the delivery of specific services, providing high-quality, comprehensive care to all patients, maintaining professionalism in the delivery of care, accurately self-evaluating one's clinical performance, and practicing efficiently and profitably. Case studies include topics in evidence-based, comprehensive general dentistry, advanced radiological interpretation and diagnosis, implantology, laser dentistry, CAD/CAM dentistry, occlusion, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular dysfunction, occlusion, surgical periodontics, pharmacology, and practice management. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1, D-2, D-3, and D-4 years (I – XI) and involves community service-learning theory and practice. Courses X – XI focus on Community Health. Through Remote Area Medical, the Health Wagon, and Smile TN, students partner with non-profit agencies and programs serving the underserved populations of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and Georgia. Additionally, students will visit elementary and junior high schools to provide health promotion education to students in oral disease prevention, tobacco cessation, and drug avoidance. Student engagement, reflection, reciprocity, and public dissemination are vehicles for the implementation of service-learning. These courses are designed to enhance students' understanding of the social determinants of illness, community public health dentistry, and civic engagement. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-4 year (I-II) and will provide student dentists with lectures on advanced topics in general dentistry, including practice management, radiology, oral medicine, internal medicine, advanced treatment planning, emergency patient care, pain management, periodontics, endodontics, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics, implantology, occlusion, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, geriatric dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, behavioral dentistry, forensic odontology**, leadership and communication**, evidence based- dentistry, ethics and jurisprudence, community health and epidemiology**, Invisalign treatment for Class I and II Malocclusion**, obstructive sleep apnea, oral parafunction, substance abuse, temporomandibular function and dysfunction, orofacial myofunctional disorders, and IV sedation**. **lectures are elective. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I -V). It gives student dentists the broadest input on the treatment of patients with perspectives from endodontists, orthodontists, periodontists, pedodontists, prosthodontists, and oral surgeons, for the development of interdisciplinary comprehensive treatment plan. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I – VI). Student dentists learn comprehensive patient-centered oral health care and develop clinical competency required to enter the general practice of dentistry. Student dentists will provide patient care under the supervision, guidance, and support of faculty and will enhance their diagnostic, technical, and interpersonal skills. This courses emphasize the importance of these skills in effective, efficient, and compassionate patient care and guide the students towards independent practice by evaluating competence in the delivery of specific services, providing high-quality, comprehensive care to all patients, maintaining professionalism in the delivery of care, accurately self-evaluating one's clinical performance, and practicing efficiently and profitably. Case studies include topics in evidence-based, comprehensive general dentistry, advanced radiological interpretation and diagnosis, implantology, laser dentistry, CAD/CAM dentistry, occlusion, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular dysfunction, occlusion, surgical periodontics, pharmacology, and practice management. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-1, D-2, D-3, and D-4 years (I – XI) and involves community service-learning theory and practice. Courses X – XI focus on Community Health. Through Remote Area Medical, the Health Wagon, and Smile TN, students partner with non-profit agencies and programs serving the underserved populations of Tennessee, Virginia, and Georgia. Additionally, students will visit elementary and junior high schools to provide health promotion education to students in oral disease prevention, tobacco cessation, and drug avoidance. Student engagement, reflection, reciprocity, and public dissemination are vehicles for the implementation of service-learning. These courses are designed to enhance students' understanding of the social determinants of illness, community public health dentistry, and civic engagement. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-4 year (I-II) and will provide student dentists with lectures on advanced topics in general dentistry, including practice management, radiology, oral medicine, internal medicine, advanced treatment planning, emergency patient care, pain management, periodontics, endodontics, operative dentistry, fixed prosthodontics, implantology, occlusion, removable prosthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, geriatric dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, behavioral dentistry, forensic odontology**, leadership and communication**, evidence based- dentistry, ethics and jurisprudence, community health and epidemiology**, Invisalign treatment for Class I and II Malocclusion**, obstructive sleep apnea, oral parafunction, substance abuse, temporomandibular function and dysfunction, orofacial myofunctional disorders, and IV sedation**. **lectures are elective. 

This course is continuous throughout the D-3 and D-4 years (I -V). It gives student dentists the broadest input on the treatment of patients with perspectives from endodontists, orthodontists, periodontists, pedodontists, prosthodontists, and oral surgeons, for the development of interdisciplina 

The student dentist will be introduced to a number of essential practice management building blocks including the contribution of all dental office staff members to the success of the patient’s clinical experience, effective communication as a member of the oral healthcare team dental office procedures, patient scheduling, personal time management, infection control, supplies management, and related health precautions for staff members.

This course encourages LMU College of Dental Medicine students to become involved in oral health-related research (basic, biomaterials, clinical, or behavioral) at LMU CDM. The research experience is flexible to fit the diversity of the projects and the changing goals of the students as they progress through the dental medicine curriculum.

This course encourages LMU College of Dental Medicine students to become involved in oral health-related research (basic, biomaterials, clinical, or behavioral) at LMU CDM. The research experience is flexible to fit the diversity of the projects and the changing goals of the students as they progress through the dental medicine curriculum.

This course introduces foundational principles of occlusion as they relate to the masticatory system, including anatomical components, determinants of occlusion, and occlusal schemes. Through didactic instruction and simulation-based laboratory experiences, students develop an understanding of functional relationships between the temporomandibular joint, muscles of mastication, and dentition. Emphasis is placed on applying occlusal concepts to diagnosis, treatment planning, and restorative procedures, as well as developing foundational skills in impression techniques, record taking, and mounting of diagnostic casts.

This course introduces the principles of patient evaluation, diagnosis, insurance benefits, and comprehensive treatment planning in dentistry. Emphasis is placed on medical history assessment, clinical and radiographic examination, risk assessment, and development of evidence-based treatment plans. Through didactic instruction and case-based learning, students develop critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills essential for comprehensive patient care.

This course introduces the biological principles, diagnosis, and treatment of pulpal and periapical diseases through integrated didactic and simulation-based laboratory instruction. Emphasis is placed on pulpal anatomy, diagnosis, access preparation, cleaning and shaping, obturation, aseptic technique, and management of endodontic emergencies and traumatic injuries. Students develop foundational knowledge and preclinical skills necessary to perform non-surgical endodontic procedures and evaluate treatment outcomes in preparation for clinical patient care.

This course advances students’ knowledge and preclinical skills in the diagnosis and treatment of pulpal and periapical diseases through integrated didactic and simulation-based instruction. Emphasis is placed on endodontic diagnosis, traumatic injuries, emergency treatment, radiographic interpretation, cleaning and shaping, obturation, aseptic technique, and evaluation of treatment outcomes. Students develop competency in non-surgical endodontic procedures and clinical decision-making necessary for comprehensive patient care and transition into clinical practice.

This preclinical course introduces the principles and procedures of fixed prosthodontics with emphasis on indirect complete-coverage restorations. Through integrated didactic instruction and simulation-based laboratory experiences, students develop foundational knowledge and technical skills in tooth preparation, provisional restorations, impression techniques, dental materials, and digital CAD/CAM workflows. The course integrates concepts from prosthodontics, occlusion, radiology, periodontics, and oral diagnosis in preparation for clinical patient care.

This preclinical course builds upon foundational fixed prosthodontic principles and advances students’ knowledge and technical skills in indirect complete-coverage restorations and multi-unit fixed prosthodontic therapy. Through integrated didactic instruction and simulation-based laboratory experiences, students develop competencies in advanced tooth preparation design, pontic design, provisional restorations, esthetic material selection, and digital workflows for fixed prostheses. The course integrates concepts from prosthodontics, occlusion, periodontics, oral diagnosis, and biomaterials in preparation for comprehensive patient care.

This course introduces the foundational principles of removable prosthodontics with emphasis on the diagnosis, treatment planning, and fabrication of complete and removable partial dentures. Through integrated didactic instruction and simulation-based laboratory experiences, students develop knowledge and technical skills in impression techniques, denture fabrication, occlusal relationships, laboratory procedures, and prosthesis evaluation. The course prepares students for the clinical application of removable prosthodontic therapies and comprehensive patient care.

This course builds upon foundational removable prosthodontic principles and advances students’ knowledge and technical skills in the restoration of partially edentulous and edentulous patients. Through integrated didactic instruction and simulation-based laboratory experiences, students develop competencies in removable partial denture design, surveying, treatment planning, tooth modification for removable prostheses, evaluation of prosthesis fit, and management of complex restorative cases. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, prognostic assessment, laboratory communication, and preparation for clinical patient care.

This course introduces students to the foundational principles and clinical concepts of orthodontics and pediatric dentistry through integrated didactic instruction, case-based discussions, and preclinical laboratory experiences. Emphasis is placed on craniofacial growth and development, malocclusion, orthodontic diagnosis, pediatric behavior management, preventive and restorative care, pulp therapy, space management, dental trauma, and evidence-based treatment planning. Students develop foundational knowledge and preclinical skills necessary to recognize, evaluate, manage, and appropriately refer orthodontic and pediatric oral health conditions within the scope of general dental practice.

This course introduces students to the foundational principles and clinical concepts of orthodontics and pediatric dentistry through integrated didactic instruction, case-based discussions, and preclinical laboratory experiences. Emphasis is placed on craniofacial growth and development, malocclusion, orthodontic diagnosis, pediatric behavior management, preventive and restorative care, pulp therapy, space management, dental trauma, and evidence-based treatment planning. Students develop foundational knowledge and preclinical skills necessary to recognize, evaluate, manage, and appropriately refer orthodontic and pediatric oral health conditions within the scope of general dental practice.

This course advances students’ competencies in oral and maxillofacial radiographic interpretation through systematic evaluation of intraoral, panoramic, and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging. Emphasis is placed on identifying normal anatomy and anatomical variations, recognizing pathologic conditions, formulating differential diagnoses, and developing appropriate management recommendations including monitoring, biopsy, treatment, or referral. Through lecture-based instruction, case-based learning, and radiographic case presentations, students develop critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, and communication skills necessary for comprehensive patient care.

This course advances students’ competencies in patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and clinical documentation through integrated didactic instruction, simulation exercises, problem-based learning, and case-based learning activities. Emphasis is placed on comprehensive patient evaluation, medical history assessment, extraoral and intraoral examination, caries risk assessment, periodontal charting, PHORTEN documentation, treatment sequencing, patient-centered communication, and insurance-based treatment considerations. Students develop critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and interdisciplinary treatment planning skills necessary for comprehensive general dental practice.

This course provides foundational knowledge and preclinical training in oral and maxillofacial surgery through integrated didactic instruction, simulation-based exercises, and competency-based assessments. Emphasis is placed on patient assessment, informed consent, infection control, pain and anxiety management, exodontia principles, suturing techniques, management of odontogenic infections, impacted teeth, and postoperative care. Students develop foundational surgical knowledge, psychomotor skills, and clinical decision-making abilities necessary for safe and effective oral surgical patient care.

This course advances students’ knowledge and preclinical competencies in operative dentistry through the management and restoration of complex restorative cases. Through integrated didactic instruction, simulation-based laboratory exercises, and competency-based assessments, students develop advanced skills in diagnosis, treatment planning, caries management, restorative dentistry, full-mouth rehabilitation concepts, pediatric restorative care, esthetic dentistry, removable prosthodontic considerations, and interdisciplinary patient management. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, clinical decision-making, evaluation of treatment outcomes, and preparation for comprehensive clinical patient care.

Medical Gross Anatomy (MGA) is the study of the body's structure. The course is organized according to the major body regions: back and upper limb; thorax and abdomen; pelvis and lower limb; and head and neck. Laboratory dissections will be utilized throughout the entire course. Supplemental lectures and tutorials will also be given. The student is expected to learn anatomical terminology, three-dimensional, and radiological anatomy. Throughout the course, students will be challenged to relate anatomy to solving clinical problems. The latter is an integral part of the anatomy curriculum. Students will be evaluated by a series of written examinations and laboratory practical exams.

This course integrates foundational physiology, pharmacology, general histology, and integumentary system pathology to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of normal body function, cellular transport mechanisms, pharmacologic principles, and diseases of the skin and related structures. Emphasis is placed on clinical correlations, dental implications, patient safety, and evidence-based decision-making in dental practice.

This course offers an integrative exploration of the nervous system, uniting anatomy, histology, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology to examine the sensory, motor, and autonomic regulation of oral and systemic functions. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the clinical relevance of the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous systems, particularly in the head and neck regions. 

The course highlights the interconnectedness of the oral region with systemic neural networks, reinforcing the importance of behavioral aspects like pain perception and reflex control. By studying the pathogenesis and clinical implications of neurological disorders, students develop critical reasoning skills necessary for safe, effective, and patient-centered care

The Molecular Fundamentals of Medicine I (MFM I) course is designed to provide each student with an integrated understanding of the basic biochemical, molecular, and cellular principles underlying cell structure and function in health and disease. The course integrates the basic science disciplines of molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry and metabolism, pathology, and medical genetics within the context of their clinical applications to basic biomedical sciences. Students will gain an understanding of (1) human molecular biology and genetics; (2) cellular biology and metabolism (3) cellular, molecular, and metabolic abnormalities resulting in pathological conditions and disease; and (4) the molecular basis for clinical diagnosis and therapy.

This course integrates anatomy, histology, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical case analysis of the musculoskeletal system. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of musculoskeletal structure and function, mechanisms of disease, and therapeutic interventions with emphasis on dental implications and patient safety.

This course provides a thorough survey of the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous systems. The basic science components will include embryologic neural development, neuroanatomy, and neurophysiology.

This course is a comprehensive study of normal human physiology organized by system, with an emphasis on integration and control based on the body's innate capacity for regulation and healing. Students are also introduced to failures of the regulatory systems, due either to internal or external pathology. The major class activities are lectures and team-based learning (TBL) exercises. TBL activities are problem-solving exercises to reinforce learning.

The course is designed to build a foundation of pharmacologic knowledge. Drug modes of action and physiologic effects that stem from drug actions are introduced systematically by pharmacologic class with emphasis placed upon prototypical and commonly used members from each pharmacologic class.

This course prepares students to apply foundational knowledge of normal physiology, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic principles within clinical and conceptual frameworks. Students will learn to distinguish normal from abnormal cardiovascular function, develop diagnostic reasoning, and identify appropriate basic therapeutic approaches. Emphasis is placed on interpreting patient history, physical examination findings, laboratory data, ECGs, and imaging studies to support the diagnosis and management of common cardiovascular conditions.

This course integrates anatomy, histology, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical case analysis of the renal system. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of renal structure and function, mechanisms of disease, and therapeutic interventions with emphasis on dental implications and patient safety.

This course integrates anatomy, histology, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical case analysis of the respiratory system. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of respiratory structure and function, mechanisms of disease, and therapeutic interventions with emphasis on dental implications and patient safety.

This course establishes the foundational knowledge of the gastrointestinal system through an integrated study of anatomy, histology, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical correlations relevant to oral health. Topics include the structure and function of the gastrointestinal tract and accessory organs, mechanisms of digestion and absorption, gastrointestinal diseases, pharmacologic management, and the oral manifestations and dental implications of gastrointestinal disorders. This course provides the biomedical foundation necessary for understanding patient care in Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Pharmacology, Treatment Planning, and Comprehensive Dental Care.

This course establishes the foundational knowledge of the endocrine system through an integrated study of anatomy, histology, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical correlations relevant to oral health. Topics include the structure and function of major endocrine organs and regulatory axes, mechanisms of hormone action, neuroendocrine disorders, pharmacologic management, and the oral manifestations and dental implications of endocrine dysfunctions. This course provides the biomedical foundation necessary for understanding patient care in Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Pharmacology, Treatment Planning, and Comprehensive Dental Care.

This course provides the student with an interdisciplinary approach to the primary care focused evaluation and treatment of conditions involving the neuromusculoskeletal system. Foundations of anatomy and biomechanics, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology are included to enhance the understanding of fundamental clinical concepts. Basic science and aspects of clinical neuromusculoskeletal medicine are considered. 

This course provides the dental student with an interdisciplinary, integrated approach to the basic science and clinical medicine framework for understanding the fundamentals of the hematopoietic and lymphatic systems. The course will introduce students to biochemical, genetic, pathological, pharmacologic, and immunologic considerations as the basis for an approach to the pathophysiology and clinical evaluation and treatment of anemia, hemoglobinopathies, white blood cell disorders, primary immunodeficiency disorders, leukemias and lymphomas, multiple myeloma, myeloproliferative disorders, hemostasis disorders, platelet disorders, transfusion medicine, lymphedema, select infectious disease considerations, along with other specialized topics.

This course will prepare students to apply scientific understanding of normal physiological functions, the mechanisms of disease, and principles of therapeutics within conceptual and clinical applications in order to: 

1. Distinguish normal from abnormal cardiovascular function, formulate a diagnosis, and determine the most appropriate basic therapeutic approach. 
2. Interpret and analyze history and physical examination, laboratory results, ECGs, and imaging technologies to diagnose and guide basic therapeutic approach for common cardiovascular conditions. 

The purpose of this course is to present relevant clinical information of the pathophysiology and diagnosis and treatment of renal diseases to allow the student to develop an in-depth knowledge of the structures and functions of the human renal system and how they are altered by various specific renal and systemic disease processes. This second-year renal course will build on and augment what the student has already learned in the various first- year courses and will develop a more comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of the renal system in health and illness and how it is evaluated. This course will also introduce and reinforce for the student the systemic manifestations of renal disease impacting other body systems and how pathophysiological processes in other systems impact renal function. The course will also provide an introduction to the understanding of the alterations of the pharmacology of various medications as a result of the presence of renal disease. 

The Respiratory Course is designed to instruct students about the pathologic conditions ofthe Respiratory system. The course is organized by disease types and has the pathophysiology early and integrated throughout the course. The course instructs students on the diagnostic and therapeutic tools used to evaluate and manage patients with pathology of the respiratory system. Numerous disciplines like anatomy, microbiology, and pharmacology are used to instruct the students about the evaluation and treatment of the pathology of the respiratory system. The greater design of the course is to teach an osteopathic student how to diagnose and treat problems originating from or related to the respiratory system. 

This course applies the physiologic principles of hormone production and function to pathologic processes of endocrine disorders. It also explores metabolic dysfunction, including the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes and other obesity-related conditions. Clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of common adult endocrine disorders are covered. Emphasis is placed on understanding the interplay of endocrine regulatory mechanisms as they relate to appropriate pharmacologic treatment of endocrine dysfunction.

This course will familiarize the student with the female and male reproductive system. The basic science and clinical information regarding the normal structure and function of the genitourinary system, the pathophysiology of genitourinary system disorders, and the clinical characteristics and epidemiology of these disorders. 

This course tasks the student with applying basic principles of histology, embryology, anatomy, genetics, microbiology, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology of gastrointestinal diseases in the adult and pediatric population. Basic concepts of nutrition will also be covered in this system. 

This course explores the anatomy of the skin, pathologies of the skin, and the pharmacology of dermatologic drugs. Clinical manifestations of skin disorders of various ages are presented in lecture format or TBL categorized by classification of lesions.