Course Description

Smile! Teeth and Society will explore how literature, cinema, history, biology, anatomy, pathology, catastrophic events, and cultural diversity have been shaped (and even driven by!) teeth, the face, and the human smile.

Using the “smile” and “teeth” as focal points—and these always of course occur as parts of larger wholes—a host of different relations with society will be explored to create a critical understanding around ambiguous issues such as the concept of beauty, the changing nature of health, and the relationship between the “natural” and the “artificial”. Additionally, by using active learning as a vector the students will broaden their perspectives and enhance their collaborative, innovative, and self-directed spirits. Thus, by examining the history and current understanding of the “smile” and “teeth”, we will illuminate the relationships between science, technology, and everyday life in a cross-cultural context. How can a smile impact our society?

Course Learning Outcomes

On completing the course, students will be able to:

1. Summarize and critique the significance of smile/teeth in cultural, ethnic, and historical variability.
2. Explain the basic and most relevant anatomy, physiology and pathology of teeth.
3. Articulate the impact of teeth with regard to facial aesthetics and psychological wellbeing.
4. Analyze and how teeth are not only of interest to dental medicine, but also are an integral part of arts, sociology, psychology, anthropology and science.

Offer Semester and Day of Teaching

Second semester (Wed)