Oral Histology and Dental Anatomy (A2)

This module describes in detail the histology and embryology of oral tissues, gross anatomy of the oral cavity, tooth morphology and individual tooth identification. Emphasis will be placed on clinical considerations of orofacial development and anatomy relevant to clinical dentistry. The laboratory portion of the course includes manikin and student-partner experiences. Students are provided with the basic concepts of orofacial development and structures. The microscopic and ultra structural organisations of soft and hard oral tissues are studied in detail along with the histology and embryology of oral tissues, tooth morphology, individual tooth identification, structure and biological function of the dentogingival complex. Emphasis will be placed on clinical considerations of orofacial development and anatomy relevant to clinical significance and provision of care.

The laboratory segment of the module is a detailed study of the development and histology of structures of the oral cavity. This segment gives the student a thorough understanding of the microscopic structure of teeth and surrounding tissues. The embryology section gives the student an appreciation of the normal development and insight into the basis of craniofacial malformations. The objective of the dental anatomy segment is to introduce students to cognitive and psychomotor skills related to the morphology and spatial and functional relationships of human dentition. At this stage students will be introduced to computerised tomography (CT scan) and 3D images related to actual anatomical oral structure in order to to develop radiographic identification navigation and orientation skills.