Doctor of Clinical Dentistry

What you'll learn

Adelaide University’s Doctor of Clinical Dentistry is a combined clinical training and research program. Based on your area of specialisation, you’ll study under specialist training by the School of Dentistry.

Beginning in first year, you’ll study a tailored blend of courses relevant to your interests.

Areas of specialisation include:

Endodontics

Endodontic specialists practise in the branch of dentistry that is concerned with the morphology and pathology of the pulpo-dentine complex and periradicular tissues. Its study and practice encompasses the basic clinical sciences including the biology of the normal pulp, and the aetiology, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and injuries to the pulp and associated periradicular tissues.

Orthodontics

This branch of dentistry is concerned with the supervision, guidance and correction of the growing and mature dentofacial structures. It includes the diagnosis, prevention, interception and treatment of all forms of malocclusion of the teeth and associated alterations in their surrounding structures.

Periodontics

Periodontists specialise in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions, that cause damage to the gums and jawbone.

Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics is the dental specialty dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of oral function, comfort, aesthetics and health of patients through the restoration or replacement of missing or deficient teeth and/or associated oral and maxillofacial structures. Specialist prosthodontists are trained to provide advanced restorative care using fixed, removable, and implant-based prostheses, applying evidence-based techniques and using biocompatible materials to achieve predictable, high-quality outcomes for complex clinical needs.

Special Needs Dentistry

This branch of dentistry is concerned with the oral health care of people with an intellectual disability, medical, physical or psychiatric conditions that require special methods or techniques to prevent or treat oral health problems or where such conditions necessitate special dental treatment plans.

Our program combines intensive clinical training with advanced theoretical knowledge and research.

All students complete core courses to fulfil a research dissertation during their specialisation and the following two research courses:

• Research Methods, Experimental Design & Ethics, and
• Doctor of Clinical Dentistry Research.

Assessment for this degree will include engaging in evidence-based research and conducting a research project. You will continue your research activity throughout the duration of your studies. Assessments will include oral presentations of your findings, and the submission of a dissertation. In your specialisation, you’ll develop academic literacy and presentation skills through specialist clinical courses.