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Module Overview
Advances in dental materials have been rapid in the area of esthetics, such as the expanded application of
composites for posterior restorations, and in the development of fluoride releasing glass ionomer cements and
filling materials. This module discusses a large variety of dental materials that the dental assistant will use every
day. Each material has unique properties in order to perform specific functions. Restorative dentistry, also called
operative dentistry, provides direct restoration of tooth structure by reproducing the original shape of the tooth.
Section 1:
Dental Cements
Section 2:
Amalgam Restorations
Section 3:
Composite Restorations
Part A: Cavity
Preparations
Part B: Amalgam
Restorative Material
Part B: Composite
Restorative Materials
Resources
This module utilizes the following learner resources:
Textbooks:
Dental Assisting, A Comprehensive Approach, 2nd edition, by Donna J. Phinney and Judy Halstead. Delmar
Learning, 2004. ISBN 1-4018-3480-9.
Materials and Procedures for Todays Dental Assistant, by Ellen Dietz, Delmar Learning, 2004. ISBN:
1401837336.
Workbook: Workbook to Accompany Dental Assisting, A Comprehensive Approach, 2nd edition, by Donna J.
Phinney and Judy Halstead, prepared by Karen L. Waide, Delmar Learning, 2004. ISBN 1-4018-3483-3.
Instructors Manual: Instructors Manual to Accompany Delmars Dental Assisting, A Comprehensive Approach,
2nd edition, by Donna J. Phinney and Judy Halstead. Delmar Learning, 2004. ISBN 1-4018-3482-5.
Delmars Dental Assisting Video Series: Delmar Learning. ISBN 0-7668-1031-3.
Electronic CD-ROM: Delmars Dental Assisting Interactive Skills and Procedures CD-ROM, ISBN 1-4018-3485X.
Faculty CD-ROM: The faculty CD-ROM includes this Faculty Guide and the PowerPoint for Dental Materials.
Additional Resources
Safety Standards and Infection Control for Dental Assistants, by Ellen Dietz. Delmar Learning, 2002. ISBN 07668-2659-7.
Electronic Classroom Manager to Accompany Delamrs Dental Assisting, A Comprehensive Approach, 2nd edition,
by Donna J. Phinney and Judy Halstead. Delmar Learning, 2004. ISBN: 1-4018-3484-1.
Outline of Section 1
Part A: Dental Material Properties
Part B: Dental Cements
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These learning activities directly address the Learning Objectives and Competencies
as stated.
Teaching Tip
Knowledge:
1. Define the Key Terms.
Comprehension
2. Explain properties of dental materials.
3. List materials used to restore cavity preparations.
4. Explain composition, uses, and manipulation of dental cements.
Practice good
facilitation skills when
conducting activities
and class discussion.
Pay attention to
learners who are not
participating. Attempt
to determine factors
that might motivate or
reduce their motivation,
and act accordingly.
Application:
5. Demonstrate manipulation of zinc phosphate, polycarboxylate, glass ionomer, and zinc oxide eugenol
cements.
Learning Activities
These learning activities directly address the Learning Objectives and Competencies as stated.
[Insert Homework Assignment icon] Key Term Glossary (Part A, All Objectives)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Set Up and Manipulating Calcium Hydroxide (Part A, Objective 3-4)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Prepare and Manipulate Resin Cements (Part A, Objective 3-4)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Prepare and Utilize Acid Etch Solution (Part A, Objectives 3-4)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Manipulate Bonding Materials (Part A, Objectives 3-4)
[Insert Homework Assignment icon] Textbook Assignment (Parts A-B, All Objectives)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Manipulate Zinc Phosphate Cement (Part B, Objectives 4-5)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Manipulate Zinc Ozide Eugenol Cement (Part B, Objectives 4-5)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Manipulate Polycarboxylate Cement (Part B, Objectives 4-5)
Insert In-Class Activity icon] Glass Ionomer Cement (Part B, Objectives 4-5)
[Insert Homework Assignment icon] Posttest (Part B, All Objectives)
The Adult Learner.
is time conscious
learners. Dont waste
time. Be prompt in
starting and ending
class, and avoid busy
work, unless it serves
a useful purpose.
Key Concepts
Slides
Introduction to Module
Slides 1-2
Introduction to Section 1
Key Terms
Dental Material Properties
Slide 3
Slide 4
Slides 5-6
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Key Concepts
Slides
Bonding Materials
[Insert Home Ass icon] Textbook Assignment
[ ] Group Activities [ ] Homework [ ] Individual Activity [ ] Internet Activity [ ] In-Class Discussion [ ] In-Class Act [ ] Evaluation
In-Class Activities
Set Up and Manipulating Calcium Hydroxide (Part A, Objectives 3-4). Goal: To have learners set up for and
manipulate calcium hydroxide. Instructor should ensure enough materials and supplies are available for the
activity. Learners should be graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney &
Halstead). Learner workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
Prepare and Manipulate Resin Cements (Part A, Objectives 3-4). Goal: To have learners prepare and
manipulate resin cements in a two paste, powder/liquid, or syringe system. Learners should be placed into
teams for this activity. Learners should be graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter
____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
Prepare and Utilize Acid Etch Solution (Part A, Objectives 3-4). Goal: To have learners prepare and utilize
acid etch solution. Learners should be graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter
____(Phinney & Halstead). Ensure proper PPE is used by learners. Learner workbooks contain check off
sheets that can be utilized.
Manipulate Bonding Materials (Part A, Objectives 3-4). Goal: To have learners manipulate bonding materials.
Instructor ensure enough materials and supplies are available for learners. Learners should be graded on the
procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner workbooks contain
check off sheets that can be utilized.
In-Class Discussion
1. How should the patient be seated in the dental chair for the procedure if the filling is going to be in a
mandibular tooth?
The patient should be seated in a supine position with the light directed downward for mandibular
Teaching Tip
illumination.
[Insert Home Ass icon]
Homework Assignments
Key Term Glossary. Learners will define key terms listed in the PowerPoint
presentation. They are to enter this glossary on disk, in a dedicated notebook or
in a designated part of a notebook. They are expected to augment information
from text or lecture with other resources including any available in the school or
public libraries or on the Internet and will be graded at the end of the module on
completeness and presentation.
Textbook Assignment. Learners are to read Chapter _____ (Phinney & Halstead).
Presentation Tools
Note: If you change Objectives or Assignments, dont forget to change the slides accordingly.
Slide 1
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Labs
number.
[Insert DM 2-2]
Slide 3
[Insert DM 2-3]
Slide 4
[Insert DM 2-4]
Slide 5
[Insert DM 2-5]
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Slide 6
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Teaching Tip
A wide assortment of dental cements are used for various applications. They are
dispensed as powder and liquid, two-paste systems, or in a capsule. Each has
unique properties and specific functions. Dental assistants must thoroughly
understand how to manipulate cements at chairside as well as the function of
each.
Key Concepts
Slides
Dental Cements
Slide 7-14
10
Key Concepts
Slides
Slide 15
Assignment
[Insert Homework Ass icon] Posttest
[ ] Group Activities [ ] Homework [ ] Individual Activity [ ] Internet Activity [ ] In-Class Discussion [ ] In-Class Activity [ ] Evaluation
In-Class Activities
Manipulate Zinc Phosphate Cement (Part B, Objectives 4-5). Goal: To have learners Manipulate Zinc
Phosphate Cement. Instructor should ensure enough materials are available for learners. Learners should be
graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner
workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
Manipulate Zinc Ozide Eugenol Cement (Part B, Objectives 4-5). Goal: To have learners Manipulate Zinc
Oxide Eugenol Cement. Instructor should ensure enough materials are available for learners. Learners should
be graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner
workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
Manipulate Polycarboxylate Cement (Part B, Objectives 4-5). Goal: To have learners Manipulate
Polycarboxylate Cement. Instructor should ensure enough materials are available for learners. Learners
should be graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner
workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
Glass Ionomer Cement (Part B, Objectives 4-5). Goal: To have learners Glass Ionomer Cement. Instructor
should ensure enough materials are available for learners. Learners should be graded on the procedure steps
as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner workbooks contain check off sheets that
can be utilized.
In-Class Discussion
1. What types of viscosity did you work with when taking alginate impressions and then pouring them with plaster
and stone materials?
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The alginate material is thick and viscous. The plaster and stone are less viscous than alginate, so
that they can be poured into the patients impression, yet much more viscous than the water used
when preparing these materials.
[Insert Home Ass icon]
Homework Assignments
Ideas for learners who are ahead and want to learn more
Web Research. Have learners go to the website http://www.dentsply.com and review the product catalogue
for new products. Be prepared to discuss their discoveries in class.
Presentation Tools
Note: If you change Objectives or Assignments, dont forget to change the slides accordingly.
Slide 7
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Slide 8
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Slide 9
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Slide 10
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Copalite Varnish
Discuss how cavity varnishes are used to seal the dentinal
tubules that have been cut during the cavity preparation.
Ensure learners understand that varnishes are not used
under resin or composite materials as they affect the
Slide 11
[Insert DM 2-11]
Slide 12
[Insert DM 2-12]
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Slide 13
[Insert DM 2-13]
Slide 14
[Insert DM 2-14]
Slide 15
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Outline of Section 2
Part A: Cavity Preparations
Part B: Amalgam Restorative Material
Teaching Tip
Learning Activities
These learning activities directly address the Learning Objectives and Competencies as stated.
[Insert Homework Assignment icon] Key Term Glossary (Part A, Objectives 7-9)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Manipulating Calcium Hydroxide (Part A, Objective 9)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Using Cavity Varnish (Part A, Objective 9)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Using Amalgamator (Part B, Objective 10)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Assisting an Amalgam Procedure (Part B, Objective 10)
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Teaching Tip
Key Concepts
Slides
Introduction to Section 2
Key Terms
Cavity Preparations
Slide 13
Slide 14
Slides 15-21
In-Class Activities
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17
Manipulating Calcium Hydroxide (Part A, Objective 9). Goal: For learners to again practice manipulating
calcium hydroxide. Instructor should ensure there are enough materials and supplies for the class and
separate learners into teams. Learners should be graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____,
Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
Using Cavity Varnish (Part A, Objective 9). Goal: For learners to gain experience using cavity varnish.
Instructor should ensure there are enough materials and supplies for the class and separate learners into
teams. Learners should be graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney &
Halstead). Learner workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
Using Amalgamator (Part A, Objective 10). Goal: For learners to gain experience using an amalgamator.
Instructor should ensure there are enough materials and supplies for the class and separate learners into
teams. Learners should be graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney &
Halstead). Learner workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
In-Class Discussion
1. What were some of the problems found with manipulating calcium hydroxide, the resin cement, the etchant,
and the bonding materials?
Teaching Tip
Encourage learners to
critically think about the
material presented and
how it relates to the
workplace. Consider
having questions already
prepared to ask during
appropriate times. Also
write down good
questions posed by
learners for future
classes for even for
exam questions.
Assignments
Key Term Glossary. Learners will define key terms listed in the PowerPoint presentation. They are to enter this
glossary on disk, in a dedicated notebook or in a designated part of a notebook. They are expected to augment
information from text or lecture with other resources including any available in the school or public libraries or on
the Internet and will be graded at the end of the module on completeness and presentation.
Textbook Assignment. Learners are to read Chapter ___ (Dietz).
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Posttest. Have learners complete the Skills Mastery Assessment: Posttest in Chapter ___ (Dietz).
Take Time To Read. Encourage learners to read the textbook more than once or twice. Inform them that the
first reading is a preview. The second time it will be effective learning. The third will be an important review.
Ideas for learners who are ahead and want to learn more
Web Research. Suggest that these learners find web sites that are useful in learning the topic. This will help
them keep up with the latest news. Encourage them to consider finding at least two websites that can help
them keep current and review them each week. This is a good habit to take to the workplace.
Presentation Tools
Note: If you change Objectives or Assignments, dont forget to change the slides accordingly.
Slide
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16
Slide
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Key Terms
Review each key term and discuss the importance of
17
Slide
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18
Slide
19
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Slide
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20
Slide
meet.
Steps of Cavity Preparation
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preparation.
Point out that the enamel is cut with a high speed bur,
which prepares the shape of the cavity, then the low
speed is used to remove any decay that is present, and
hand instruments are used to refine the outline of the
prep.
Explain that the area must be free of moisture before the
base or liner is placed in the tooth.
In-Class Activity: Stop here for the in-class activities.
Homework Assignment: Stop here and review the Key
Terms Glossary homework assignment.
Teaching Tip
A freshly mixed mass of silver alloy and mercury has a plasticity that permits it to
be packed or condensed into a prepared tooth cavity and shaped to re-establish
its form and function. The toxicity of mercury has forced dental material
manufacturers to create better quality restorative materials, although amalgam is
still an excellent replacement for tooth structure and is still the most popular filling
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Create an environment
where group activities
are taken seriously and
learners are expected to
act in a professional
manner. These
behaviors will carry over
into the workplace.
Key Concepts
Slides
Slides 22-23
Assessment Questions
Slide 24
Amalgam Procedure
[ ] Group Activities [ ] Homework [ ] Individual Activity [ ] Internet Activity [ ] In-Class Discussion [ ] In-Class Activity [ ] Evaluation
In-Class Activities
Assisting an Amalgam Procedure (Part B, Objective 10). Goal: For learners to gain experience assisting
during an amalgam procedure. Instructor should ensure there are enough materials and supplies for the class
and separate learners into teams. Instructor should be the operator for this procedure. Learners should be
graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner
workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
In-Class Discussion
Improve Concentration. Suggest learners improve their concentration by, working in a quiet
environment, eliminating external distractions, avoid internal distractions, take breaks when needed,
get sufficient rest, lower stress levels, and exercise.
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Ideas for learners who are ahead and want to learn more
Web Research: Have learners research on the web for more information on cements, restorative materials,
bases, and liners. Learners should be prepared to discuss their findings with the class.
Presentation Tools
Note: If you change Objectives or Assignments, dont forget to change the slides accordingly.
Slide
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22
Slide
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23
22
Point out that the alloy powder and the mercury are mixed,
or triturated, inside a capsule with an amalgamator, and
that the material can be over-mixed or under-mixed, so it is
important to read the manufactures directions for how long
Slide
[Insert DM 1-24]
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Teaching Tip
Outline of Section 3
Part A: Bonding Agents
Part B: Composite Restorative Materials
as stated.
Knowledge
11. Define Key Terms.
Comprehension
12. Explain the use of glass ionomer, resin reinforced glass ionomer, and compomer restorative materials.
13. Explain the composition of composite resins.
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Application
14. Demonstrate manipulation of etchant material and bonding agents.
15. Demonstrate the steps of a composite restorative procedure.
Learning Activities
These learning activities directly address the Learning Objectives and Competencies as stated.
[Insert Homework Ass icon] Key Term Glossary (Part A, Objective 11)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Using Acid Etch (Part A, Objective 14)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Using Bonding Material (Part A, Objective 14)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Manipulate Resin Cement (Part A, Objectives 13 and 15)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Assisting During a Light-Cured Composite (Part B, Objectives 13 and 15)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Assisting During a Self-Cure Composite (Part B, Objectives 13 and 15)
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Glass Ionomer Restoration (Part B, Objectives 12 and 15)
[Insert Homework Activity icon] Instrument Set Up Review (Part B, All Objectives)
[Insert Homework Ass icon] Workbook Assignment (Part B, All Objectives)
[Insert Homework Ass icon] End of Chapter Activities (Part B, All Objectives)
Key Concepts
Introduction to Section
Key Terms
Slides
Slide 25
Slide 26
Glossary
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Key Concepts
Slides
Composite Restorations
Slides 27-31
In-Class Activities
Using Acid Etch (Part A, Objective 14). Goal: For learners to again practice using acid etch. Instructor should
ensure there are enough materials and supplies. Separate learners into teams. Learners should be graded on
the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner workbooks contain
check off sheets that can be utilized.
Using Bonding Material (Part A, Objective 14). Goal: For learners again practice using bonding material.
Instructor should ensure there are enough materials and supplies. Separate learners into teams. Learners
should be graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead).
Learner workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
Manipulate Resin Cement (Part A, Objective 15). Goal: For learners manipulate resin cement. Instructor
should ensure there are enough materials and supplies. Separate learners into teams. Learners should be
graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner
workbooks contain check off sheets that can be utilized.
[Insert In-Class Dis Ques icon]
In-Class Discussion
1. What were some of the problems you encountered during the amalgam
procedure?
Discuss any problems learners had with the amalgam procedure. Explain
techniques to help them and tell learners that they will improve with more
experience.
Teaching Tip
Tell learners that you
expect discussion and
provide them with
guidelines for effective
discussion. Remind
them constantly of the
importance of this part
of the class.
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2. What will happen if the tooth gets wet with water or saliva during the condensing of an amalgam filling?
The amalgam restoration will fail due to the moisture causing the material to expand.
[Insert Home Ass icon] Homework
Assignments
Key Term Glossary. Learners will define key terms listed in the PowerPoint presentation. They are to enter this
glossary on disk, in a dedicated notebook or in a designated part of a notebook. They are expected to augment
information from text or lecture with other resources including any available in the school or public libraries or on
the Internet and will be graded at the end of the module on completeness and presentation.
Ideas for learners who are ahead and want to learn more
Research Dental Amalgam Filings. Have learners find out the latest information about dental amalgam
fillings at http://www.ada.org. and prepare a short report to present to the class.
Presentation Tools
Note: If you change Objectives or Assignments, dont forget to change the slides accordingly.
Slide
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25
Slide
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Key Terms
Review each key term and discuss the importance of
26
Slide
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27
26
Teaching Tip
Equate classroom discussion
to the ingredients in a recipe.
No whole is greater that its
parts each participant adds
a valuable element to the
final product. Find the
spice that each learner
brings to the recipe. Stir and
simmer. Classroom dinner is
served!
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understand each step in order to help the dentist ensure quality patient
restorations.
Key Concepts
Slides
Composite Restorations
Slides 28-31
Assessment Questions
Slide 32
a Light Cured
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Assisting During
a Self-Cure Composite
[Insert In-Class Activity icon] Glass Ionomer
Restoration
[Insert Home Ass icon] Instrument Set Up
Review
[Insert Home Ass icon] Workbook Assignment
[Insert Home Ass icon] End of Chapter
Activities
Summary of Module
Slide 33
[ ] Group Activities [ ] Homework [ ] Individual Activity [ ] Internet Activity [ ] In-Class Discussion [ ] In-Class Activity [ ] Evaluation
In-Class Activities
Assisting During a Light-Cured (Part B, Objective 15). Goal: For learners to practice assisting during
a light-cured Composite procedure. Instructor should ensure there are enough materials and
supplies. Separate learners into teams. Learners should be graded on the procedure steps as
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outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner workbooks contain check off
sheets that can be utilized.
Assisting During a Self-Cure Composite (Part B, Objective 15). Goal: For learners to practice
assisting during a self-cure Composite procedure. Instructor should ensure there are enough
materials and supplies. Separate learners into teams. Learners should be graded on the procedure
steps as outlined on pg. ____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner workbooks contain check
off sheets that can be utilized.
Glass Ionomer Restoration (Part B, Objective 15). Goal: For learners to practice during a glass
ionomer restoration procedure. Instructor should ensure there are enough materials and supplies.
Separate learners into teams. Learners should be graded on the procedure steps as outlined on pg.
____, Chapter ____(Phinney & Halstead). Learner workbooks contain check off sheets that can be
utilized.
In-Class Discussion
1. What must the tooth be conditioned with in order for bonding materials to work?
The tooth must be conditioned with phosphoric acid etch in order to create enamel rod tissue tags
for the resin material to penetrate into.
[Insert Home Ass icon]
Homework Assignments
Instrument Set-Up Review. Learners will need a computer with a CD-ROM drive to practice to complete this
homework. Using the Interactive Skills and Procedures CD-ROM, have learners complete the Specialty Set Up
activities. This activity should be a review for learners in preparation of the final exam of the course. Learners
should repeat any area that is not clear.
Workbook Assignment. Have learners complete the workbook assignments for Chapter ____ (Phinney &
Halstead).
End of Chapter Activities. Have learners complete the Review Questions and Critical Thinking questions at the
end of Chapter ____ (Phinney & Halstead).
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Focus on Objectives. Encourage learners to focus on the objectives that they must accomplish by the end of
the module. Tell them to take an assessment of where they stand. They should ask themselves if they are
achieving the objectives or are missing the point?
Ideas for learners who are ahead and want to learn more
Tutor Others. Encourage learners to spend time in the dental lab helping other learners who are struggling
with the procedures. Building on their skills while helping others will make a difference in their skill
proficiency.
Presentation Tools
Note: If you change Objectives or Assignments, dont forget to change the slides accordingly.
Slide
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Slide
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Slide
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30
Slide
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Slide
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Slide
33
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homework.
Summary of Module
Review with learners the volume of skills they learned
during this module and remind them that the more they
practice the more proficient and valuable a dental assistant
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