Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)

Program Overview

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The Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program at Lincoln University College is a 5-year course that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for competent dental practice. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience, preparing graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in dentistry. The program is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and recognized by the Malaysian Dental Council.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program is a 5-year course designed to provide students with the scientific knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to become competent and responsible dental practitioners. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience.

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Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the scientific knowledge and skills required for successful dental practice.
• Foster a commitment to ethical and professional conduct in the dental field.
• Develop critical thinking skills and a research-based approach to dentistry.
• Prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully to the community and society through oral healthcare services.

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Program Description:

The DDS program consists of two phases:

• Preclinical Phase (2 years): This phase focuses on foundational medical and dental sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, professional development, oral biology, society and health, preventive dentistry, dental public health, and dental materials technology.
• Clinical Phase (3 years): This phase emphasizes clinical practice, integrating theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience in various dental specialties, including conservative dentistry, prosthodontics, periodontology, orthodontics, paediatric dentistry, oral pathology, oral medicine, dental imaging, endodontics, and dental research.
Additionally, students receive exposure to general medicine and surgery to enhance their capability to treat patients with chronic illnesses.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Preclinical Phase:
• Medical Sciences: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology
• Dental Sciences: Professional Development and IT, Oral Biology, Society and Health, Preventive Dentistry, Dental Public Health, Dental Materials and Dental Technology
• Clinical Phase:
• Preventive Dentistry and Dental Public Health
• Oral Maxillofacial Surgery
• Conservative Dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Periodontology
• Orthodontics
• Paediatric Dentistry
• Oral Pathology
• Oral Medicine
• Dental Imaging
• Endodontics
• Dental Research
• General Medicine
• General Surgery

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Structure:

• The program is divided into ten semesters over five years.
• Each semester includes lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, clinical practice, and assessments.
• The final year includes a research project, allowing students to delve deeper into a specific area of dentistry of their interest.

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Schedule:

• The program typically starts in November.
• The academic year follows a semester system, with two semesters per year.
Contact the program coordinator for a comprehensive list.)
• Preclinical Phase Modules:
• Anatomy I & II
• Physiology I & II
• Biochemistry I & II
• Microbiology
• Professional Development and IT
• Oral Biology
• Society and Health
• Preventive Dentistry
• Dental Public Health
• Dental Materials
• Clinical Phase Modules:
• Preventive Dentistry and Dental Public Health
• Oral Maxillofacial Surgery
• Conservative Dentistry I & II
• Prosthodontics I & II
• Periodontology
• Orthodontics I & II
• Paediatric Dentistry
• Oral Pathology
• Oral Medicine
• Dental Imaging
• Endodontics
• Dental Research
• General Medicine
• General Surgery

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Continuous assessments throughout the semesters through written examinations, quizzes, assignments, presentations, and practical demonstrations.
• Year-end examinations at the end of each academic year to assess students' overall understanding of the course material.
• A final research project in the final year, evaluated based on its originality, depth, and presentation.

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Assessment Criteria:

• Demonstrating a thorough understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of dentistry.
• Applying knowledge and skills effectively in clinical settings.
• Exhibiting critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Communicating effectively both orally and in writing.
• Maintaining ethical and professional conduct in all aspects of dental practice.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Interactive lectures delivered by experienced faculty members.
• Small group tutorials for in-depth discussion and problem-solving.
• Hands-on laboratory sessions to develop practical skills and techniques.
• Clinical rotations in various dental specialties to gain real-world experience.
• Research supervision and guidance for the final year research project.

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Faculty:

• The program boasts a team of qualified and experienced dental professionals with expertise in various specialties.
• Faculty members are actively involved in research and contribute to the advancement of dental knowledge.
• Students benefit from personalized attention and mentorship from faculty members.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes a patient-centered approach to dental care, focusing on holistic patient management.
• Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, ensuring a modern and comprehensive learning experience.
• The research-driven curriculum encourages students to engage in critical thinking and contribute to the field of dentistry.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

• Dental officers in the Ministry of Health, Malaysian Armed Forces, or other government agencies.
• Private dental clinics and hospitals.
• Academia as lecturers or professors in dental schools or universities.
• Research positions in research centers or corporate agencies.

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Career Outcomes:

• Graduates are eligible for registration with the Malaysian Dental Council and can pursue a fulfilling career in dentistry.
• The program prepares students to contribute significantly to improving oral health outcomes in Malaysia and beyond.
• Graduates are well-equipped to handle the challenges of the evolving dental landscape and adapt to advancements in technology and treatment modalities.

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Other:

• The program has received accreditation from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and is recognized by the Malaysian Dental Council.
• Lincoln University College offers scholarships and financial aid to support students throughout their studies.
• The university provides a vibrant and supportive environment for students, with various clubs and societies to foster extracurricular activities and personal development.