UWA Handbook 2026

Unit Overview

Description

This unit in Periodontics, delivered in Semester 2 of the Doctor of Clinical Dentistry program, is a continuation of DENT6841 in Semester 1 and requires successful completion of that prerequisite before enrolment.

The unit provides an advanced and comprehensive review of osseointegrated implantology, alongside a critical appraisal of contemporary periodontal literature. Core areas of focus include the processes of examination, diagnosis, treatment planning, and the management of patients with periodontal disease. Emphasis is placed on the interdisciplinary integration of periodontics with other dental specialties, with a view to advancing comprehensive and evidence-based treatment planning.

Teaching Methods:

Prescribed readings, seminars, tutorials, group discussions, and student presentations.

Assessment

Assessment in this unit is continuous and incorporates both theoretical and applied elements. Students are expected to engage actively in seminars, tutorials, and presentations, and to demonstrate original input, critical analysis, and reflective thinking through assignments such as essays, journal clubs, case presentations, and implant/periodontal topics.

Clinical assessment tools including Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS), Case-Based Discussion (CbD), and Mini Clinical Evaluation Exercise (Mini-CEX) are also used to provide immediate feedback on both clinical and theoretical performance.

Assessments at the end of the academic year comprise of both Written Examination and Oral and Applied Assessments.

The exams will be carried out in conjunction with the Royal of Australasian College of Dentists and Oral Surgeons membership.

Professional Behaviour Requirements - Demonstrate consistent professional, ethical, and respectful behaviour, in accordance with the DCD Student Handbook and the Dental Board of Australia Code of Conduct. This includes maintaining attendance and punctuality, engaging in effective communication, demonstrating accountability, and being responsive to feedback. Meeting these expectations is a mandatory requirement for successful unit completion.

Credit

6 points

Offering
(see Timetable)

Availability	Location	Mode
Non-standard teaching period	Oral Health Care Centre of WA (OHCWA)	On-campus

The timetable for this teaching period is not currently available. Please see the Important Dates page for the timetable release date and other key date information.

Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe the structure and function of periodontal tissues, and discuss the initiation, progression, and outcomes of periodontal disease.; (2) summarize the historical development of oral implants.; (3) explain the principles of examination, diagnosis, planning, and treatment of patients with periodontal disease.; (4) explain the process of osseointegration and the biology of peri-implant tissues.; (5) apply periodontic management strategies for initial therapy, corrective procedures, osseointegrated implants, and supportive care.; (6) select and interpret imaging techniques relevant to periodontal diagnosis and implant therapy.; (7) analyze the principles of wound healing and the processes of soft- and hard-tissue regeneration and repair.; (8) analyze the cellular mechanisms leading to bone loss around oral implants.; (9) analyze the immunological mechanisms underlying the inflammatory response in peri-implant soft tissues.; (10) evaluate the indications, contraindications, advantages, disadvantages, and alternatives of different implant materials.; (11) appraise strategies and protocols for supportive periodontal therapy.; (12) design and implement supportive periodontal therapy protocols.; and (13) plan and execute implant site development, placement, and maintenance procedures..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) written exam; (2) oral eand applied assessment; and (3) professional behaviour. Further information is available in the unit outline.

To pass this unit, a student must: (a) achieve an overall mark of 50 per cent or higher for the unit; and (b) achieve the requisite requirements(s) or a mark of 50 per cent or greater, whichever is higher and specified in the unit outline, for the oral eand applied assessment and professional behaviour components.

Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)

Dr Pradeep Koppolu

Unit rules

Prerequisites

Successful completion of

DENT6839 Periodontics Theory II Part 1 (ID 2971)
and DENT6840 Periodontics Theory II Part 2 (ID 2972)

Co-requisites

Enrolment in

12 points Unit(s) DENT6848 Periodontics Clinical Practice III Part 2
and 6 points Unit(s) DENT6850 Periodontics Research Dissertation

Contact hours

seminars: 3 hours per week for 4-5 weeks