Overview
This unit builds on your knowledge of anatomy from ORAL11004 Oral Anatomy 1 and supports your study of oral pathology in ORAL11003 Introduction to Oral Disease. In the first half of this unit you will continue the study of anatomy and physiology of the head, neck and oral cavity with an emphasis of the clinical applications of this knowledge. In the second half of this unit you will study embryology and microscopic anatomy of structures within the oral cavity. With this unit you will develop the foundation knowledge required to administer local anaesthesia and conduct an extra-oral and intra-oral examination in oral health therapy practice.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
Condition: Students must be enrolled full-time in CB29 Oral Health Course to enrol in this unit. Prerequisite units are: ORAL11004 and BMSC11010.
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 2 - 2026
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes - in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Undergraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of 'pass' in order to pass the unit. If any 'pass/fail' tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully ('pass' grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the 'assessment task' section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University's Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure - Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure - International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback - Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
Feedback, Recommendations and Responses
Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.
Feedback from Student evaluations and in class.
Students would like to receive more feedback on the weekly practice quizzes in preparation for the Online Quiz assessment. They felt that the wording in some Online Quiz assessment questions was confusing.
It is recommened that additional feedback be added to the practice quizzes, and the questions in the Online Quiz assessment be reviewed for clarity.
Feedback from Student evaluations and in class.
Some students found this unit to be content heavy and reported difficulty discerning which content was most important.
It is recommended to focus on essential material by enhancing the streamlined lecture slide layout and categorising additional learning resources as essential or optional.
Feedback from Student evaluations and in class.
Students appreciated one-on-one support before the written In Class tests.
It is recommended to continue small-group and individual review sessions before the written In Class tests.
- Identify and describe anatomical and radiographic features of the head and neck with particular relevance to dental anaesthesia and patient examination
- Describe anatomy and physiology of the oral cavity with emphasis on innervation of oral structures, spread of infection, function of the temporomandibular joint and salivary glands
- Describe the embryological development of the teeth and oral cavity, and the microscopic anatomy of oral structures
- Demonstrate appropriate oral and written communication skills, professional attitudes and ethical behaviours as required of an Oral Health Therapist.
The learning outcomes of this unit are part of the overall learning outcomes in the BOralHlth course at CQUniversity. They will form part of the annual report documentation which is submitted to the Australian Dental Council for accreditation.
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
| Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| 1 - Practical Assessment - 25% | ||||
| 2 - Online Quiz(zes) - 25% | ||||
| 3 - In-class Test(s) - 50% | ||||
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
| Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| 1 - Communication | ||||
| 2 - Problem Solving | ||||
| 3 - Critical Thinking | ||||
| 4 - Information Literacy | ||||
| 5 - Team Work | ||||
| 6 - Information Technology Competence | ||||
| 7 - Cross Cultural Competence | ||||
| 8 - Ethical practice | ||||
| 9 - Social Innovation | ||||
| 10 - First Nations Knowledges | ||||
| 11 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures | ||||
Textbooks
Illustrated Anatomy of the Head and Neck
- Edition: 7th (2025)
- Authors: Margaret J. Ferenbach
- Elsevier Australia
- Great Britain
- ISBN: ISBN: ISBN: 9780443124426 ISBN-10: 0443124426
Illustrated Dental Embryology, Histology, and Anatomy
- Edition: 6th (2025)
- Authors: Margaret J. Ferenbach, Tracey Popowics
- Elsevier US
- Great Britain
- ISBN: ISBN: ISBN: 9780443104244 ISBN-10: 0443104247
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing styles below:
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
c.m.fay@cqu.edu.au
Week 1
Begin Date: 13 Jul 2026Module/Topic
Structures of the head and neck relevant to the dental examination:
- The eye
- The ear
- Paranasal sinuses
- Structures of the anterior neck.
Practical Laboratory Session.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M. J. (2025) Illustrated anatomy of the head and neck. (7th Ed.,),Elsevier, St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapter 2. Surface Anatomy, Chapter 3. Skeletal Structures and Chapter 4. Muscular Structures.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 2
Begin Date: 20 Jul 2026Module/Topic
Salivary glands:
- Anatomical position of the major and minor salivary glands
- Nerve supply, blood supply and lymphatic drainage
- The relationship between salivary gland function and oral health.
The temporomandibular joint:
- Anatomy
- Mandibular movement
- Examination
- TMJ dysfunction.
Practical Laboratory Session.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M. J. (2025) Illustrated anatomy of the head and neck. (7th Ed.,),Elsevier, St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapter 7. Glandular Tissue and Chapter 5.Temporomandibular Joint.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 3
Begin Date: 27 Jul 2026Module/Topic
Normal structures in patient examination:
- Extra-oral examination
- Intra-oral examination.
Practical Laboratory Session.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M. J. (2025) Illustrated anatomy of the head and neck. (7th Ed.,),Elsevier, St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapter 2. Surface Anatomy. Appendix B and Appendix C.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 4
Begin Date: 03 Aug 2026Module/Topic
Landmarks for local anaesthesia:
- Introduction to local anaesthesia for oral health therapists
- Landmarks for local anaesthesia.
Practical Laboratory Session.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M. J. (2025) Illustrated anatomy of the head and neck. (7th Ed.,),Elsevier, St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapetr 8. Nervous System and Chapter 9. Anatomy of Local Anesthesia.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 5
Begin Date: 10 Aug 2026Module/Topic
Introduction to embryology and microscopic anatomy:
- Review the structure and function of cells, tissues, organs and organ systems
- Origin of human tissue
- Development of the oral facial region
- Effects of genetic and environmental factors on oro-facial and dental development.
Practical Laboratory Session.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M.J., and Popowics, T, (2025) Illustrated dental embryology, histology, and anatomy. (6th Ed.,) Elsevier Health Sciences St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapter 3. Prenatal Development, Chapter 4. Face and Neck Development and Chapter 5. Orofacial Development
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 6
Begin Date: 17 Aug 2026Module/Topic
Development and eruption of teeth:
- The process of tooth eruption and shedding
- Sequence of eruption and exfoliation.
Practical Laboratory Session.
- Practical Assessment.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M.J., and Popowics, T, (2025) Illustrated dental embryology, histology, and anatomy. (6th Ed.,) Elsevier Health Sciences St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapter 6. Tooth Development and Eruption.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Vacation Week
Begin Date: 24 Aug 2026Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 7
Begin Date: 31 Aug 2026Module/Topic
Microscopic anatomy 1:
- Enamel
- Dentine.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M.J., and Popowics, T, (2025) Illustrated dental embryology, histology, and anatomy. (6th Ed.,) Elsevier Health Sciences St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapter 12. Enamel and Chapter 13. Dentin and Pulp.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 8
Begin Date: 07 Sep 2026Module/Topic
Microscopic anatomy 2:
- Alveolar process
- Periodontal ligament
- Cementum.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M.J., and Popowics, T, (2025) Illustrated dental embryology, histology, and anatomy. (6th Ed.,) Elsevier Health Sciences St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapter 14. Periodontium: Cementum, Alveolar process, and Periodontal Ligament.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 9
Begin Date: 14 Sep 2026Module/Topic
Microscopic anatomy 3:
- Pulp Tissue
- Oral Mucosa.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M.J., and Popowics, T, (2025) Illustrated dental embryology, histology, and anatomy. (6th Ed.,) Elsevier Health Sciences St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapter 9. Oral Mucosa and Chapter 13. Dentin and Pulp.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 10
Begin Date: 21 Sep 2026Module/Topic
Microscopic anatomy 4:
- Salivary glands
- Salivary gland function and oral health.
Radiographic examination revision.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M.J., and Popowics, T, (2025) Illustrated dental embryology, histology, and anatomy. (6th Ed.,) Elsevier Health Sciences St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapter 11. Head and Neck Structures.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 11
Begin Date: 28 Sep 2026Module/Topic
Spread of infection in the head and neck:
- How odontogenic infections occur
- Definitions of Abscess, Cellulitis and Osteomyelitis
- Spread of infection to maxillary sinuses, vascular system, lymphatic system and tissue spaces.
Chapter
Fehrenbach, M. J. (2025) Illustrated anatomy of the head and neck. (7th Ed.,),Elsevier, St Louis, Missouri. USA. Chapter 10. Lymphatic System, Chapter 11. Fasciae and Spaces and Chapter 12. Spread of Infection.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Week 12
Begin Date: 05 Oct 2026Module/Topic
Revision and evaluations.
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Exam Week
Begin Date: 12 Oct 2026Module/Topic
In Class test assessment.
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Vacation/Exam Week
Begin Date: 19 Oct 2026Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
1 Practical Assessment
You will complete a station-based practical test in Week 6. The test includes 20-25 numbered stations, each requiring different tasks and may include:
• Identifying anatomical structures on models and radiographs
• Identifying teeth and estimating age based on dentition in radiographs or models
• Describing anatomical functions
• Demonstrating a practical skill.
This assessment evaluates your ability to apply anatomy knowledge of the head, neck, and oral cavity in practical situations for future clinical practice. To prepare for this test, you will engage in hands-on learning activities using:
• Anatomical and dental models
• Radiographs and charts
• Manikin-based simulations for local anaesthesia techniques.
Level of GenAI use allowed: Level 1:
No AI. You must not use AI at any point during the assessment. You must demonstrate your core skills and knowledge.
Week 6 Thursday (20 Aug 2026) 5:00 pm AEST
The 72-hour grace period does not apply to this assessment.
Week 7 Monday (31 Aug 2026)
Results and feedback for the Anatomy practical assessment will be made available 31st August 2026.
The station based practical anatomy test is worth 25% of your overall mark. This is a must pass assessment. You will be assessed on correct identification and description of normal anatomy, function and development of the facial, teeth and oral structures. Your answers will be graded against a standard answer and marking guide.
- Identify and describe anatomical and radiographic features of the head and neck with particular relevance to dental anaesthesia and patient examination
- Demonstrate appropriate oral and written communication skills, professional attitudes and ethical behaviours as required of an Oral Health Therapist.
2 Online Quiz(zes)
You will complete one online quiz which will assess your understanding and application of terminology used in the study of oral anatomy. The quiz will test your knowledge of learning material from weeks 1-9.
To prepare for this quiz you should complete the weekly practice quizzes and attend all lectures and practical sessions.
The quiz questions will include multiple choice and matching questions.
Questions are randomly selected from a question bank so no two students will sit the same test.
There is a time limit to this test. Once the time limit expires, your quiz will be automatically submitted, and no further answers can be entered. You are allowed only one attempt per quiz.
Level of GenAI use allowed: Level 1:
No AI. You must not use AI at any point during the assessment. You must demonstrate your core skills and knowledge.
1
Other
Week 11 Wednesday (30 Sept 2026) 5:00 pm AEST
Week 11 Thursday (1 Oct 2026)
The quiz is marked automatically. Results will display when the quiz closes.
The quiz includes matching and multiple-choice questions which are chosen randomly from a bank of questions. Questions are marked automatically correct or incorrect. The quiz is worth 25% of the total grade for this unit. This is a must-pass assessment. You must achieve at least 50% in this assessment.
- Identify and describe anatomical and radiographic features of the head and neck with particular relevance to dental anaesthesia and patient examination
- Describe anatomy and physiology of the oral cavity with emphasis on innervation of oral structures, spread of infection, function of the temporomandibular joint and salivary glands
- Describe the embryological development of the teeth and oral cavity, and the microscopic anatomy of oral structures
3 In-class Test(s)
You will complete one closed-book, written in-class test to assess your understanding of oral anatomy. To prepare for this test you are advised to:
- Review lecture notes, readings, and weekly learning materials.
- Practice writing clear, concise responses to paragraph-style questions. You will find past year practice questions in the weekly study guides.
- Complete the weekly practice quizzes to self assess your understanding of key concepts and terminology related to oral anatomy.
Test Format
The test is in two parts. Part A and Part B.
- Part A will include short answer questions where you maybe asked to fill the blank or complete the sentence as well as short written response questions.
- Part B will include longer response questions with multiple parts. You may be asked to draw or label diagrams.
Level of GenAI use allowed: Level 1:
No AI. You must not use AI at any point during the assessment. You must demonstrate your core skills and knowledge.
Exam Week Tuesday (13 Oct 2026) 5:00 pm AEST
The 72-hour grace period does not apply to this assessment.
Results of the In Class test will be returned on release of grades.
The In-Class test is worth 50% of the total grade for this unit. This is a must pass assessment. You must achieve 50% to pass this assessment. Your answers will be graded against a standard answer and marking guide.
- Describe anatomy and physiology of the oral cavity with emphasis on innervation of oral structures, spread of infection, function of the temporomandibular joint and salivary glands
- Describe the embryological development of the teeth and oral cavity, and the microscopic anatomy of oral structures
- Demonstrate appropriate oral and written communication skills, professional attitudes and ethical behaviours as required of an Oral Health Therapist.
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.
What can you do to act with integrity?
