The Doctor of Dental Surgery is a four-year program in general dentistry leading to the D.D.S. degree and emphasizing study in three broad areas: basic sciences, clinical sciences and social sciences. The academic year begins in July and extends through May. As a result of successfully completing the pre-doctoral dental curriculum the new dentist will be competent in the following areas: Assess and diagnose diseases and abnormalities of the oral cavity and head/neck region in pediatric and adult patients. Obtain, assess and properly utilize information relative to systemic health of patients, initiating consultations and referrals to other health care professionals as appropriate. Develop a comprehensive evidence-based treatment and/or referral plan(s), based on etiologic factors, current oral disease risk analyses, standards-of-care strategies and biomedical and clinical scientific knowledge. Develop evidence-based treatment plan options to present to patient/parent involving them in the health care decision-making process and obtain informed consent.