Welcome to the Department of Restorative Sciences at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. Our department is dedicated to excellence in education, patient care, scholarship, and service, and we are proud to play a vital role in preparing future dental professionals to restore oral health, function, and confidence for the patients they serve.
The Department of Restorative Sciences is home to the divisions of Comprehensive Care, Dental Biomaterials, Endodontics, Operative Dentistry, and Prosthodontics, as well as the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Residency Program. Together, these programs provide students and residents with a strong foundation in the science, artistry, and clinical skills required to deliver exceptional patient care in an evolving healthcare environment.
Education is at the heart of everything we do. Through classroom instruction, simulation training, clinical experiences, and mentorship, students develop the knowledge, technical expertise, and critical thinking skills necessary to become confident and compassionate clinicians. Our faculty members are dedicated educators and mentors who challenge students to pursue excellence while fostering professionalism, lifelong learning, and a commitment to service.
The Comprehensive Care Division serves as the cornerstone of the patient experience and provides students with opportunities to integrate knowledge from across all dental disciplines as they develop and manage individualized treatment plans. Through these experiences, students learn the importance of comprehensive, patient-centered care and the lasting relationships that define the dental profession.
The Operative Dentistry Division provides students with the clinical foundation for restoring teeth affected by disease, trauma, and wear. Through hands-on experiences and evidence-based instruction, students develop the skills necessary to preserve natural tooth structure and restore oral health using contemporary restorative techniques.
The Dental Biomaterials Division helps students understand the science behind modern dentistry. By studying the properties, selection, and application of dental materials, students gain the knowledge needed to make informed clinical decisions and provide durable, predictable treatment outcomes for their patients.
Through the Endodontics Division, students develop expertise in diagnosing and treating diseases of the dental pulp and surrounding tissues, gaining valuable experience in procedures that help patients retain their natural dentition. The Prosthodontics Division introduces students to advanced restorative treatment options that restore function, esthetics, and quality of life for patients with complex oral healthcare needs.
The Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency Program further strengthens our department's educational mission by providing advanced clinical training in comprehensive patient care. Working alongside experienced faculty and specialists, residents expand their skills in treatment planning, interdisciplinary care, and the management of complex cases, preparing them for leadership roles within the profession.
One of the department's greatest strengths is its collaborative environment. Faculty members work closely with colleagues throughout the College to provide multidisciplinary care while exposing students to the teamwork and communication that are essential to successful patient outcomes. Through these experiences, students gain an appreciation for the lifelong impact dentistry can have on the health and well-being of individuals and communities.
As we look to the future, the Department of Restorative Sciences remains committed to advancing dental education, embracing innovation, and preparing graduates who will lead the profession with skill, integrity, and compassion. We look forward to being part of your professional journey.
Sincerely,
Zachary Dacus, DDS
Chair, Department of Restorative Sciences
OU College of Dentistry