Secondary Schoolers Taste Dentistry

Knowledge Exchange
Expressions Summer 2022

Virtual Learning Blended with Science and Art

Is dentistry difficult and boring? Wait, take a look at the photos of teeth carved from clay. They were created by Secondary 2 to 4 students! The HKU Taster – session for the Faculty of Dentistry was held on 13 April 2022 with the theme: A glimpse of Dentistry: Science, Art and Technology.

Dentistry is not just about extracting a tooth, scaling or filling the decayed cavities. It is a medical profession that serves the public by preventing oral diseases, treating dental problems, and correcting jaw deformities. It shapes the future of oral health care by advancing dental education, research, and technology. It is also art-related as it requires manual dexterity to restore teeth and correct facial structure so that patients can restore their beautiful smiles.

The online learning session consisted of three parts which was moderated by Dr Mike Leung, Admissions Tutor. The first part was about science – dental radiology. Dr Andy Yeung, Tutor in Radiography, presented an online tutorial introducing the use of radiology in dentistry. He then showed various dental X-rays. The students learned how to observe the X-ray – distinguish whether it is the patient’s left or right side, and upper or lower jaw. In addition, they acquired knowledge on how to identify if the patient is a child or an adult; and whether they are suffering from tooth decay, or periodontal disease or jaw cysts. At the end of the session, there was an online quiz to test the students’ understanding of dental radiology.

The second part was about technology – 3D Printing in Dentistry. Dr Mike Leung explained the conventional method of creating dental dentures, crowns, teeth, etc. He also introduced how the latest 3D printing technology assists in manufacturing dental restorations and its application in dental implant placement and oral and maxillofacial surgery. He highlighted the micro-mist mouthguard cleaning device innovated by Dr James Tsoi, Associate Professor in Dental Materials Science, that may help the elderly clean their teeth.

The last part was about art – Tooth Carving Workshop. A video on crafting a molar step by step from the clay was shown. The students then had the chance to create one by themselves with the provided materials. They were also invited to send photos of their finished product to the Faculty of Dentistry along with a Happy 40th Anniversary message. The best ten submissions would be given Philips Sonicare Toothbrushes as gifts!

The Faculty of Dentistry would like to thank the students for their participation and look forward to seeing them at HKU in the near future!

This April, HKU Taster of the University of Hong Kong provided a series of online sessions for learning support to secondary school students who spent their early summer vacation. One of the activities was Week of Taster, a 5-day programme conducted from 11 to 15 April. The event allowed Secondary 2 to 4 students to learn all sorts of interesting knowledge and experiences offered by 10 Faculties via zoom. Grant had provided without any quota to any students with financial difficulties to enjoy HKU Taster.