- Introduction (5 minutes)
- Begin by introducing the importance of understanding tooth morphology and how it relates to the practice of dentistry.
- Explain that teeth are complex structures with many different parts and functions, and that understanding their morphology is essential to creating effective dental restorations.
- Overview of tooth morphology (15 minutes)
- Use a diagram or model of a tooth to give a brief overview of its different parts and their functions.
- Explain the different types of teeth (incisors, canines, premolars, molars) and their specific functions in the mouth.
- Point out the different surfaces of the tooth (occlusal, buccal, lingual, mesial, and distal) and their significance in dental restorations.
- Anatomy of a tooth restoration (20 minutes)
- Use a diagram or model of a tooth restoration to explain the different parts and how they relate to tooth morphology.
- Explain the importance of matching the shape and size of a restoration to the natural tooth structure, including the cusps, ridges, and grooves.
- Demonstrate how a dental technician can use dental tools to shape and contour a restoration to fit the natural tooth structure.
- Importance of tooth morphology in dental lab (15 minutes)
- Explain how understanding tooth morphology is essential for creating high-quality dental restorations.
- Point out that tooth morphology can vary widely from patient to patient, and that dental technicians must be able to accurately reproduce this morphology in their restorations.
- Emphasize the importance of attention to detail and precision in the dental lab, as even small deviations from natural tooth morphology can impact the function and longevity of a restoration.
- Hands-on activity (30 minutes)
- Provide students with a variety of dental models and restorations to practice shaping and contouring to match the natural tooth morphology.
- Encourage students to experiment with different tools and techniques to achieve a precise fit and accurate reproduction of tooth morphology.
- Provide feedback and guidance as needed to help students improve their skills.
- Conclusion (5 minutes)