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Dentistry

Bachelor

In the first phase of the bachelor of science, the focus is on a combination of scientific and medical basic education (biophysics, biological chemistry, comparative biology, histology and anatomy) and clinical manual ability training. Thereafter but prior to medical practice (which is central in the master's programme), students gain basic knowledge on the body, the orofacial region (the area around the mouth) and their mutual interplay.

Students are given scientific insight in the composition and construction and the development and function of the human organism, including in the principles of dysfunction in which prevention of disorders is a key element. On the one hand, knowledge is gained on the normal processes of metabolism and biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, immunological processes, embryology, pharmacology. On the other hand abnormal processes are addressed, such as pathological physiology and biology, anatomist pathology, cell damage, pathology, inflammation, recovery and regeneration, neoplasia, immune disorders, infection and genetic and congenetical abnormalities. In addition a number of typical dental course units are added to the programme: cariology, restorative dentistry, endodontics, radiology, mouth surgery, periodontology, orthodontics and function of the jaw system.

I didn't know what to expect from studying at the university. You hear clichés certain professors and on what it is like to be in their classes. The threshold is much lower than the stories make it out to be. The professors know who you are and you're able to ask questions. It's always nice when you expect worse, but get something good in return! (Student)

Dentistry 1Dentistry 2

 

Master

In the master of science in dentistry, scientific insights and knowledge are further explored and the necessary skills to become a dentist are practiced. Gaining experience in practice is central in this part of the programme.
The first phase of the master of science contains medical and biomedical course units as well as preclinical and clinical course units.
During the second phase of the master of science, the focus is on clinical course units (1327 hours). The following three internships of two months each are planned:

  • conservative dentistry, orthodontics, stomatoloy and maxillofacial surgery;
  • periodontology, prosthetic dentistry;
  • general dentistry in the AZ Hospital St.-Jan in Bruges

The training center provides free housing for students during these two months. Students can also opt for an internship abroad (France, Germany or Chile). Furthermore, students are introduced to integrated oral health care within the framework of the 'Student Clinic' in Leuven in which the patient and the student are key elements (five half days per week).

All students complete their study with a Master's thesis. It consists of three evaluations (capita selecta - final exam on integrated patient care - Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) to evaluate analytical, synthetical and problem solving abilities). This Master's thesis is a form of self study with guidance and in which the large biomedical library of the faculty serves as a valuable instrument.

 

If you wish to become a general dentist, with a RIZIV (Dutch) licensed practice, you have to complete one more programme phase in which you have a full time (paid) internship in an approved training center. In addition, you will take up several theoretical courses: truncus communis, license general dentist (60 hours) and seminars on 'integrated patient care for the general dentist' (24 hours). The programme phase is concluded with a thesis. If you wish to further specialize in the pathology of the mandibular joint and on the phenomenon of pain, you can opt for the two-year postgraduate course in pain and dysfunction of the masticatory system (Dutch)

 

Advanced Master's

If you wish to continue your studies after completing the master's programme, the K.U.Leuven offers several possibilities.

Candidates are selected based on their curriculum, degree and on an interview. In order to grasp the clinical aspects of dentistry, one will need to combine the above Advanced Master's courses with a postgraduate in the field. Only the combination of both programs offers the possibility to be licensed in the chosen specialism. Orthodontics and periodontology are licensed continuing education programs approved by the RIZIV.