ABOUT
The Department of Community Dentistry is one of the three departments of the University of the Philippines College of Dentistry. The Department recognizes the importance of formal education in raising the standards of community dental care through its undergraduate courses on community oral health, as well as research. Together with other departments, Community Dentistry ascertains that the institutional objectives are accomplished especially in developing students who are scientifically knowledgeable, technically capable, and socially sensitive.
The Department of Community Dentistry is one of the three departments of the University of the Philippines College of Dentistry. The Department recognizes the importance of formal education in raising the standards of community dental care through its undergraduate courses on community oral health, as well as research. Together with other departments, Community Dentistry ascertains that the institutional objectives are accomplished especially in developing students who are scientifically knowledgeable, technically capable, and socially sensitive.
The Department continues to adapt to the changing needs and demands of various communities with regard to oral health utilizing the principles and concepts of Primary Health Care as groundwork for programs and projects.
Vision
The Department envisions to continuously produce excellent leaders in community dentistry who are socially sensitive in empowering the total well-being with the cooperation, support and appropriate involvement of many communities.
Mission
The Department aims to develop the competencies in administration, promotion of oral health in communities, health communication and research of dental students.
Objectives
The department has the following objectives:
- To develop an understanding of the basic concepts of dental public health, the major health problems of a community, the organization of health services, the epidemiology and methods of control and prevention of oral diseases;
- To supplement professional preparation of students through a practical experience in planning, organizing and evaluating dental care to specific groups and dental health education and communication programs in the community setting;
- To elevate the standard of community dental practice by stimulating study and promoting continuing interest and eventually develop competent Filipino dental researchers;
- To introduce the history and development of dentistry and its continuing relevance as a profession;
- To provide dental students with knowledge and skills to enhance decision-making ability, develop career preferences, and establish and manage a dental practice;
- To apply legal and regulatory principles in the practice of dentistry.