Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description
Orthodontics
Course Code
VZK_001
Branch of Science
Clinical medicine
ECTS
9.00
Target Audience
Dentistry
LQF
Level 7
Study Type And Form
Full-Time
Study Course Implementer
Course Supervisor
Gundega Jākobsone
Structure Unit Manager
Gundega Jākobsone
Structural Unit
Department of general dentistry
Contacts
ilona.krauze@rsu.lv, gundega.jakobsone@rsu.lv; +37126658620
About Study Course
Objective
Course aim – to provide students with knowledge of the growth and development of teeth, face, and jaws throughout life; the etiopathogenesis of orthodontic abnormalities; and the principles of diagnosis and orthodontic treatment. The course aims to develop students’ ability to identify morphofunctional disorders, assess the need for treatment and referral to an orthodontist, advise patients in cases of premature tooth loss and dental trauma, and function effectively as members of an interdisciplinary healthcare team involving an orthodontist. Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to perform specific procedures within the scope of interceptive orthodontics.
Preliminary Knowledge
Medical genetics, human molecular biology, normal physiology, clinical pharmacology in dentistry, internal diseases with propedeutics, human anatomy, dental anatomy, embryology, histology, maxillofacial surgery, oral surgery, pathology, psychosomatic medicine and psychotherapy, biostatistics, prosthodontics and clinic, dental and maxillofacial diagnostic radiology, prophylaxis in dentistry, endodontics: preclinical and clinical course, periodontology preclinical and clinical course, paediatric dentistry, restorative dentistry, cariology, biomaterials in dentistry, contact culture in dentistry, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, paediatric maxillofacial surgery, otorhinolaryngology for a dentist, paediatrics.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
1.The student will acquire knowledge of the normal growth, development, and maturation of the craniofacial complex, as well as an understanding of pathological development and the influence of normal and impaired function on the dentofacial system. The student will understand the most common congenital syndromes affecting the craniofacial region. Knowledge of imaging diagnostic methods used in orthodontics and the principles of diagnosing dentofacial anomalies will be acquired. General knowledge of the basic principles of treating dental and jaw anomalies in children, adolescents, and adults, as well as the fundamental principles of orthodontic treatment planning, including general knowledge of mechanical and functional appliances used in orthodontics, clear aligner therapy. The knowledge about the management of dental trauma will also be obtained. The student will acquire knowledge of occlusal deformities associated with premature tooth loss, interdisciplinary principles of orthodontic treatment, and the specific features of orthodontic treatment in adult patients. In addition, the student will gain knowledge of iatrogenic factors in orthodontic treatment, retention of treatment outcomes, and the risk of relapse. At the level of understanding, the student will learn about interceptive orthodontic measures
Skills
1.Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to: • analyze craniofacial growth and assess clinically significant deviations in facial and jaw development; • identify adverse factors affecting occlusal development, including tooth germ absence or anomalies, and predict their impact on occlusion; • locate and utilize information on congenital craniofacial syndromes; • collect medical and dental history for orthodontic treatment planning; • perform clinical documentation, including photographing the face and occlusion for clinical purposes; • plan and apply space maintainers and orthodontic bands; • provide evidence-based information to patients or caregivers about the principles of orthodontic treatment and related issues; • critically evaluate literature sources and analyze scientific articles; • manage emergency situations in orthodontics; • collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
Competences
1.Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be competent to: • apply classification systems for identifying dental, facial, and jaw anomalies; • plan, fabricate, and maintain space maintainers; • create and evaluate orthodontic diagnostic models; • plan, insert, and adjust removable active appliances to correct single-tooth or crossbite malocclusions and vacuum-pressed retainers; • identify harmful oral habits that may contribute to malocclusion, prevent their consequences, educate patients, and, if necessary, provide treatment; • support the orthodontist during orthodontic treatment by motivating patients, maintaining oral hygiene, and explaining the principles of orthodontic care; • assess the risk of occlusal anomalies following premature tooth extraction; • understand the orthodontist’s role in dental trauma management; • respond appropriately in all types of orthodontic emergencies, including referral to a specialist when required; • assist in post-treatment retention procedures and help ensure long-term stability of orthodontic outcomes; • collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary team, demonstrating professional responsibility and patient-centered care.
Assessment
Individual work
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Independent work |
-
|
10 points
|
|
Individual work includes the preparation of periodic literature reviews and clinical case presentations, as well as the study of theoretical material presented in seminars. During the semester, students will be assessed through tests on occlusal development in patients with premature tooth loss, retention, and relapse, and clinical case analysis. To evaluate the overall quality of the course, students are required to complete the course evaluation questionnaire on the Student Portal. |
||
Examination
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Accumulated exam |
-
|
10 points
|
|
The performance throughout the course is evaluated for the tests and the independent work for which the grading is indicated in the estudies. A student must have received an assessment of at least 80 per cent on the tests and individual work. The average grade is calculated, and it represents 50% of the assessment of the accumulated exam. 50% consists of an assessment of the case analysis. |
||
|
2.
Exam |
-
|
10 points
|
|
Final examination based on analysis of clinical situations involving various developmental abnormalities in the facial-jaw area, dental injuries, early tooth loss, and aspects of interseptive orthodontics. |
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Study Course Theme Plan
FULL-TIME
Part 1
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to orthodontics
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Basic principles for the growth of the craniofacial complex. Facial bone growth areas.
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Embryonic development of the craniofacial complex and congenital abnormalities in the craniofacial region.
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tissue reactions under the influence of orthodontic forces
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Imaging methods in orthodontics. Lateral cephalometry
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Imaging methods in orthodontics. Lateral cephalometry
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Teething disorders: hypodontia, turntable teeth, impaired teeth and rettensions. Diagnosis, treatment strategy. Complications related to overhead, impacted and retinated teeth
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Interseptive orthodontics
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Growth of facial soft tissue
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
The evolution of bite. Milk and permanent bites. Site holders: indications, clinical and laboratory stages of manufacture.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Biometric assessment of dental cast models.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Imaging methods in orthodontics. Lateral cephalometry
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Imaging methods in orthodontics. Lateral cephalometry
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Basic principles for the growth of the craniofacial complex. Facial bone growth areas.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Normal and abnormal growth of the upper jaw and lower jaw. Growth modification options.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Age-related craniofacial changes
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Embryonic development of the craniofacial complex and congenital abnormalities in the craniofacial region.
|
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
42 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Test (Semester)
Part 2
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Video
|
2
|
Topics
|
Upper jaw expansion
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Video
|
2
|
Topics
|
Angle II class
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Video
|
2
|
Topics
|
Angle Class III bite abnormalities
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Video
|
2
|
Topics
|
Interdisciplinary aspects of the orthodontic treatment
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Disturbances in eruption of teeth: hypodontia, supernumerary teeth, impactions, and retentions. Diagnosis, treatment strategies. Complications associated with the supernumerary, impacted, and retained teeth.
|
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tooth movement with orthodontic appliances: indications and biomechanical aspects.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Basic principles of care for patients with clefts of the face and jaws. The role of orthodontist in the care of patients with facial clefts.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Tooth movement as a result of orthodontic forces. Removable orthodontic appliances.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Disturbances in the eruption of the teeth: hypodontia, supernumerary teeth, impactions, and retentions. Diagnosis, treatment strategies. Complications associated with the supernumerary, impacted, and retained teeth.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Disturbances in the eruption of the teeth: hypodontia, supernumerary teeth, impactions, and retentions. Diagnosis, treatment strategies. Complications associated with the supernumerary, impacted, and retained teeth.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Interseptive orthodontics
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Serial extractions.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Recurrence and retention.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Emergency situations in orthodontic practice – first aid in case of appliance damage. Working with models.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Side effects of orthodontic treatment.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Effects of general conditions on the development of dentofacial abnormalities and orthodontic treatment. Obtaining a history
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Methodology for clinical case analysis.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Bite scan.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Laboratory technique. Printable stl file preparation.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Laboratory technique. Manufacture of vacuum-pressed appliances in laboratory.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Laboratory technique. Processing of vacumpressed appliances.
|
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
57 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Test (Semester)
Part 3
-
Video Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Integrated seminar with pediatric dentistry.
Management of dental trauma in children.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Integrated seminar with pediatric dentistry.
Management of dental trauma in children.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Integrated seminar with pediatric dentistry.
Occlusal changes produced by premature extractions of teeth.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Discrepancies between the teeth sizes and lengths of the dental arches (crowding, spacing). Possibilities to create the space in the dental arch: inter proximal reduction, extractions, expansion. Orthopaedical, orthodontical and passive expansion.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Angle class II anomaly.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Angle class II anomaly.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Dentoalveolar and skeletal problems in the vertical plane.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Producing a specific treatment plan and presenting to the patient. Informed consent.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Tooth row corrections with tooth correcting aligners.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Orthodontics in adult patients.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Interdisciplinary aspects of orthodontic treatment.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Clinical case analysis to grade. Part 1.
|
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
3
|
Topics
|
Clinical case analysis to grade. Part 2.
|
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
38 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam
Bibliography
Required Reading
1.
Simon J. Littlewood, Laura Mitchell. 2019. An Introduction to Orthodontics. 5th Edition, OxfordSuitable for English stream
2.
Materiāli e-studijās.Suitable for English stream
3.
Henry W. Fields Jr., Brent E. Larson, David M. Sarver, William R. Proffit (and others) 2025. Contemporary Orthodontics. 7th Edition, Elsevier.Suitable for English stream
Additional Reading
1.
McNamara JA, Brudon WL. 2001. Orthodontics And Dentofacial Orthopedics.Suitable for English stream
2.
English J, Akyalcin S, Peltomaki T, Litschel K. 2025. Orthodontic Review. 3rd Edition; Mosby’s.Suitable for English stream
Other Information Sources
1.
Seminars in OrthodonticsSuitable for English stream
2.
Journal of Craniofacial ResearchSuitable for English stream
3.
Science DirectSuitable for English stream
4.
American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial OrthopedicsSuitable for English stream