The American Dental Education Association And Colgate-Palmolive Announce Partnership To Create A Dental Plaque Biofilm Curriculum

The American Dental Education Association (ADEA) and Colgate-Palmolive have partnered to create a curriculum on dental plaque biofilm (commonly known as dental plaque), gum inflammation, and treatment options for dental and allied dental programs. The curriculum will provide educators with the latest research in a rapidly evolving field tailored to first-year students in dentistry, dental hygiene, and dental assisting. With funding from Colgate-Palmolive, ADEA will lead the working group of dental academics and clinicians that develops the curriculum.

"Colgate-Palmolive, the global leader in oral care, is extremely pleased to be partnering with ADEA to have this curriculum produced," said Fotinos S. Panagakos, D.M.D., Ph.D., Director of Professional Relations for Colgate Palmolive. "Our hope is that once completed, this curriculum will become a valuable addition to the existing dental and dental hygiene program, and lead to future curriculum projects with ADEA."

Plaque biofilm was identified as a topic because it bridges the basic and the clinical sciences. By examining plaque biofilm from both of these scientific perspectives, students will be able to easily synthesize how the complex nature of plaque biofilm connects to treatment options and preventive education. The curriculum will also provide a foundation for more advanced coursework in periodontal therapy that occurs later in the programs.

"We were pleased to be approached by Colgate-Palmolive to lead the project. ADEA looks forward to leading the design of a curriculum that brings together science, theory, and practice to better educate future dental professionals," said ADEA President James Q. Swift, D.D.S.

The curriculum will include a syllabus, DVD supplemental program, and content for lectures and seminars. A dental professional from Colgate-Palmolive will also give guest lectures to students as part of the course. The final curriculum will be announced in November 2008 at the 50th Annual ADEA Deans' Conference.

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