In 1997 the Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences and the Department of Prosthodontics were merged. The combined department maintained the name Biologic and Materials Sciences (BMS), while establishing the associated Division of Prosthodontics. The BMS Department incorporates faculty members in the basic sciences and also in the clinical science of prosthodontics. 

The Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences includes the disciplines of oral biology, biomaterials, and prosthodontics. 

Oral biology is a multi-disciplinary science concerned with the structures and functions of tissues, fluids, and microbial flora in the oral cavity and adjoining areas. Instruction in oral biology provides the basis for understanding complex biological interactions, which occur in the mouth and related structures. Scientists in the Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences work towards understanding basic mechanisms of development, identifying the pathogenesis of oral disease and the development of novel therapeutic approaches. 

Prosthodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the replacement and maintenance of oral function, comfort, appearance, and health of the patient by the restoration of natural teeth and/or the replacement of missing teeth and contiguous oral and maxillofacial tissues with artificial substitutes. Its major components are complete denture, removable partial denture, fixed partial denture prosthodontics, and dental implants. The Department also has links with the University Hospitals to provide training and treatment in maxillofacial prosthodontics. Maxillofacial prosthodontics is a subspecialty of dentistry that deals with the rehabilitation of patients with acquired and congenital defects of the head and neck region.