HomeMy WebLinkAboutDHY-108
Division of Health Professions
Department of Dental Hygiene
Course Syllabus
DHY108 -Dental & Oral Anatomy and Physiology
Semester and year: Fall (1st year)
Section Number: 001, 002, & 003
Meeting Times: DHY-108-001
DHY 108-002
DHY 108-003
Location:
Instructor:
Office Location
Phone:
Departmental Secretary: Mary Geminiano
Office Hours: By appointment
Email Address:
Course Description:
This course examines the anatomy and physiology of the teeth and oral structures. There
will be an emphasis on the identification of primary and permanent teeth, classification of
occlusion, and description and location of anatomical structures of the head and
neck. Dental terminology will be defined and related to oral structures through the
utilization of dental model devices; computer-assisted learning, and interactive laboratory
sessions.
• Credits: 2 (1 Lecture, Lab 4)
• Pre-requisites: None
• Co-requisites: DHY 101, DHY 109
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this course, the dental hygiene student will be able to:
Student Learning Outcome: Means of Assessment:
1. Recognize and categorize individual
teeth according to morphologic
differences observed.
Written examinations/quizzes
Tooth identification practical exam
Laboratory exercises
Typodont identification activities
Class discussions/presentations
2. Comprehend the basic relationship
between the morphologic
characteristics of the teeth and the
potential disease processes affecting
them as well as what preventive
interventions may accomplish.
Written examinations
Case study analysis
Clinical application exercises
Class discussions and participation
3. Recognize the basic principles of
occlusion and the variables that play
important roles in inter- and intra-arch
relationships.
Occlusion practical quiz
Written examinations
Laboratory exercises involving articulation
and occlusion
Case study analysis
Class discussions/presentations
4. Integrate the functional and
anatomical relationships within the
head and neck regions in the provision
of dental hygiene care.
Written examinations
Patient assessment simulations
Laboratory identification exercises
Case study learning assignments
5. Recognize the relationship of the oral
cavity and head and neck region to
the rest of the body.
Written examinations
Class discussions and participation
Reflection assignments on systemic/oral
health connections
6. Apply an understanding of head and
neck and oral anatomy to clinical
treatment skills.
Written examinations
Case study analysis
Class discussions and participation
INSTRUCTIONAL METHODOLOGY:
Teaching Methods Learning Experiences/Activities
1. Lecture presentations
2. Interactive class
discussions
3. Laboratory exercises and
hands-on activities
4. Anatomical model and
chart identification
activities
5. Videos
6. Small group activities and
collaborative learning
7. Case-based learning and
case study analysis
8. Evidence-based learning
activities
9. Student presentations
1. Identification of tooth morphology using
extracted teeth and models.
2. Development of interactive digital
software/modules for tooth identification.
3. Activities focused on occlusion analysis.
4. Evaluation and interpretation of clinical images.
5. Exercises for labeling head and neck anatomy
and identifying models.
6. Case studies linking oral conditions to systemic
health.
7. Clinical scenarios that require the application of
dental knowledge and understanding of head
and neck anatomy.
8. Activities for identifying cranial and facial
muscles.
9. Exercises for mapping skeletal anatomy.
10. Independent reading
assignments
11. Review sessions and
formative assessment
exercises
12. Canvas modules and
online learning activities
13. Peer learning and peer
evaluation activities
10. Correlation of root anatomy with
instrumentation techniques.
11. Group discussions analyzing the relationship
between the structure and function of oral
tissues.
12. Simulations for patient assessment and clinical
decision-making.
13. Review games for dental and head and neck
anatomy.
American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Entry Level Competencies for the
Allied Health Professionals (Core Competencies (CC) include:
Professional Knowledge
1. Professionalism
1.1 Apply professional values and ethics in all endeavors.
1.2 Adhere to accreditation standards and federal, state and local laws and regulations.
1.3 Promote quality assurance practices based on accepted standards of care.
1.4 Demonstrate interpersonal skills to effectively communicate and collaborate with
professionals and patients across socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.
2. Safety
2.1 Comply with local, state and federal regulations concerning infection control protocols
for blood-borne and respiratory pathogens, other infectious diseases and hazardous
materials.
2.2 Follow manufacturers’ recommendations related to materials and equipment used in
practice.
2.3 Establish and enforce mechanisms to ensure the management of emergencies.
2.4 Use security guidelines and compliance training to create and maintain a safe, eco-
friendly and sustainable practice compatible with emerging trends.
2.5 Ensure a humanistic approach to care.
2.6 Uphold a respectful and emotionally safe environment for patients and practitioners.
3. Critical Thinking
3.1 Demonstrate critical and analytical reasoning to identify and develop comprehensive
oral health care solutions and protocols.
3.2 Apply individual and population risk factors, social determinants of health and
scientific research to promote improved health and enhanced quality of life.
4. Scientific Inquiry and Research
4.1 Support research activities and develop research skills.
4.2 Use evidence-based decision-making to evaluate and implement health care
strategies aligned with emerging trends to achieve high-quality, cost-effective and
humanistic care.
4.3. Integrate accepted scientific theories and research into educational, preventive and
therapeutic oral health services.
Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
5. Health Education and Community Connection
5.2 Endorse health literacy and disease prevention.
5.2 Communicate and provide health education and oral self-care to diverse
populations.
5.3 Facilitate learning platforms for communities of interest by providing health education
through collaboration with dental and other professionals.
5.4 Promote the values of the dental profession through service-based activities.
5.5 Evaluate outcomes for future activities supporting health and wellness of individuals
and communities.
6. Advocacy
6.1 Promote an ethical and equitable patient care and practice environment by
demonstrating inclusion of diverse beliefs and values.
6.2 Uphold civic and social engagement through active involvement in professional
affiliations to advance oral health.
Professional Development and Practice
7. Professional Growth
7.1 Commit to lifelong learning for professional and career opportunities in a variety of
roles and settings.
7.2 Engage in research, education, industry involvement, technological and professional
developments and/or advanced degrees.
7.3 Demonstrate self-awareness through reflective assessment for continued
improvement.
8. Business Practices
8.1 Facilitate referrals to and consultations with relevant health care providers and other
professionals to promote equitable and optimal patient care.
8.2 Promote economic growth and sustainability by meeting practice goals.
8.3 Create and maintain comprehensive, timely and accurate records.
8.4 Protect privacy, confidentiality and security of the patients and the practice by
complying with legislation, practice standards, ethics and organizational policies.
9. Leadership
9.1 Develop and use effective strategies to facilitate change.
9.2 Inspire and network with others to nurture collegial affiliations.
9.3 Solicit and provide constructive feedback to promote professional growth of self.
Discipline-specific (Dental Hygiene) competencies:
DH. 1 Essential Knowledge
DH. 1.1 Apply the knowledge of the following sciences during the dental hygiene process
of care: Microbiology, Human anatomy and physiology, Human cellular biology,
Chemistry, Biochemistry, Immunology and pathology, Nutrition, Pharmacokinetics
DH. 1.2 Apply the knowledge of the following behavioral sciences during the dental
hygiene process of care: Sociology, Psychology, Interpersonal communication
DH. 2 Person-centered Care
2.1 Assessment
DH.2.1.1 Accurately collect and document a comprehensive medical, dental, social health
history and diagnostic data.
DH.2.1.2 Critically analyze all collected data.
DH.2.1.3 Identify predisposing, etiologic, environmental and social risk factors for person-
centered care.
2.2 Dental Hygiene Diagnosis
DH.2.2.1 Analyze comprehensive medical, dental and social health history.
DH.2.2.2 Integrate observational and diagnostic data as part of the dental hygiene
diagnosis.
DH.2.2.3 Use predisposing, etiologic, environmental and social risk factors for person-
centered care.
2.3 Planning
DH.2.3.1 Use the patient’s assessment to establish an optimal and realistic, person-
centered dental hygiene care plan through mutual communication.
DH.2.3.2 Use all aspects of the dental hygiene diagnosis in combination with the person’s
values, beliefs and preferences to develop a dental hygiene care plan through shared
decision- making.
2.4 Implementation
DH.2.4.1 Obtain informed consent based on the agreed-upon treatment plan.
DH.2.4.2 Execute individualized treatment based on the patient’s dental hygiene
diagnosis.
DH.2.4.3 Integrate educational, preventive and the therapeutic services to provide
comprehensive person-centered care.
DH.2.4.4 Use specialized skills and evidenced-based technology to promote dental and
periodontal health.
DH.2.4.5 Continuously re-evaluate for modifications to achieve desired outcomes.
2.5 Evaluation and Documentation
DH.2.5.1 Evaluate the effectiveness of completed services.
DH.2.5.2 Analyze treatment outcomes of the dental hygiene process of care to determine
improved health and modifications.
DH.2.5.3 Modify dental hygiene care plans as necessary to meet goals of patient and
clinician.
DH.2.5.4 Identify necessary referrals for success of the treatment outcomes, including
intraprofessional and interprofessional health care providers, supporting professions and
patient advocates.
DH.2.5.5 Accurately document assessment findings and data, dental hygiene diagnosis
and care plan, implementation, outcome evaluation and any communication between
professionals and patient and anyone else in the circle of care.
Course Texts and/or Other Study Materials:
Fehrenbach, M.J. Illustrated Anatomy of the Head and Neck. 7th edition. Elsevier. 2026.
(abbreviated as AHN in the course readings)
ISBN: 9780443124426
Fehrenbach, M.J. and Popowics, T. Illustrated Dental Embryology, Histology, and
Anatomy. 6thedition. Elsevier. 2026. (abbreviated as DEHA in the course readings)
ISBN: 9780443104244
Grading Policy:
Examinations (4) Average 60 %
Laboratory Quizzes (2) Average 20 %
Dental Anatomy Project 10%
Laboratory Assignments 5 %
Total Grade 100%
Examinations and quizzes will cover material from the lectures, laboratory exercises, and
reading assignments. Refer to the course outline section for the topics that will be included
in each examination. Students are expected to take the examinations when scheduled.
Make-up examinations may not be presented in the same format as the original
examination and will be administered during the last week of the semester.
Grading Scale
92-100 A
89-91 B+
83-88 B
80-82 C+
75-79 C
Below 75 R
Incomplete (Not all requirements fulfilled) N
A cumulative average of 75 must be achieved in each of the didactical and clinical
portions of the course. When a student has not been able to earn a “C” grade or
better, in either category, the student will be required to repeat the course. Some
clinical items will carry a higher weight based on semester. (Clinical
Competencies). *Time frame provided to complete requirements to achieve Pass
Grade
A grade of C or better in all DHY courses must be maintained for progression to
the next Dental Hygiene course.
ATTENDANCE POLICY:
https://catalog.bergen.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=666&hl=%22instructor%22&r
eturnto=search
• All students are expected to attend punctually every scheduled meeting of each
course in which they are registered.
• Attendance and lateness policies and sanctions are to be determined by the
instructor for each section of each course.
• These will be established in writing on the individual course outline.
Attendance will be kept by the instructor for administrative and counseling
purposes.
The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) requires that students complete a
minimum number of clinical and didactic hours in the program; therefore, students are
expected to attend all class/lab sessions.
Attendance is critical to the successful completion of the program. All program classes
and activities must be prioritized. Scheduling conflicts must be resolved by the student so
that program classes and activities are met.
It is the student’s responsibility to be on time for all classes, labs, and clinical sessions.
Attendance, lateness policies, and sanctions are to be determined by the instructor of
each course. These will be established in writing on the individual course outline.
The penalty for more than two (2) unexcused absences (i.e., a doctor’s note) will be a
loss of credit in this course and will result in the student repeating the entire course.
NOTE: Two (2) tardies will equal one (1) absence.
Consequently, excessive absenteeism and tardiness may impact work ethics and course
grades. Therefore, it may become necessary to withdraw from a course due to excessive
absenteeism.
Other College, Divisional, and/or Departmental Policy Statements:
DRESS CODE
Students are expected to exhibit a professional appearance as noted in the Student
Handbook.
ACADEMIC CONDUCT
The Dental Hygiene faculty adheres to the policy statement governing academic conduct
as outlined in the Bergen Community College Catalog.
https://catalog.bergen.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=671&hl=%22conduct%22&re
turnto=search#procedure-thecode
Faculty reserve the right to delay the return of exam grades until all students have taken
the exam and faculty review of the exam has been completed.
Cheating, plagiarism, and unethical behavior will not be tolerated. Any student who has
demonstrated any of the above behaviors will be disciplined according to college
procedures.
*Note: An instructor may establish other guidelines regarding academic integrity
consistent with the College policy.
https://catalog.bergen.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=666&hl=%22plagiarism%2
2&returnto=search
Cheating, plagiarism, and unethical behavior will not be tolerated. Any student who has
demonstrated any of the above behaviors will be disciplined according to college
procedures.
Cell phones are not permitted in classrooms, laboratories or clinics unless they are part
of the learning activity.
Students are not permitted to use any type of recording device to tape lectures or clinical
sessions.
Children are not permitted in classrooms and/or laboratories.
Food is not permitted in classrooms, laboratories, clinic reception area or clinical areas.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY
Dental hygienists are health care professionals who ‘focus on preventing and treating oral
diseases.’ They play an important role in society by providing services that contribute to
the health and well-being of individuals and their communities and must always display
ethical behavior. This obligation begins in dental hygiene school and continues
throughout one’s professional career. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association’s
Code of Ethics establishes behavioral standards to guide the public’s expectations of trust
and accountability. These ethical standards include a commitment to honesty,
truthfulness, full disclosure, accuracy, fairness, and integrity. You are expected to be
guided by these standards and follow the Dental Hygiene Department rules of conduct
during any testing situation. All students are expected to pass examinations on their own
merit without assistance and are expected to maintain confidentiality with respect to
examination content. Behavior that results in misconduct or irregularity in the examination
process is a very serious matter. Violation of the rules of conduct or examination
regulations may result in the voiding of examination results or other appropriate
penalties.
The Dental Hygiene Program will adhere to the Academic Integrity Policy of Bergen
Community College, which is stated in the College Catalog. Violation of academic
integrity may be defined to include, but not limited to cheating, plagiarism, falsification
and fabrication, abuse of academic materials, complicity in academic dishonesty, and
personal misrepresentation. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of the behaviors
that constitute academic dishonesty. Please refer to the Bergen Community College
Catalog for more information.
COURSE ISSUES
If a problem arises with any aspect of this course, it is the responsibility of the student
to bring the problem to the attention of the primary faculty member. If the issue
involves any other faculty member, the student will be referred to discuss the problem
with the faculty member that is involved. The primary faculty member will not change
any evaluation grade issued by clinical faculty members.
To facilitate resolution of any issues that may arise, students must follow this protocol.
Students should not make appointments with the Dental Hygiene Department
Academic Department Chairperson, other faculty members or administration without
first addressing the issue with the primary faculty member.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
Students who require accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) can request these services from the Office of Specialized Services. To learn
more about how to apply for services, please visit them at: https://bergen.edu/current-
students/student-services-departments/disability-services-office-of-specialized-services/
ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT
Bergen Community College is committed to ensuring the full participation of all students
in its programs. If you have a documented disability (or think you may have a disability)
and, as a result, need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this class, complete
course requirements, or benefit from the College’s programs or services, contact the
Office of Special Services (OSS) as soon as possible at 201-612-5270
or www.bergen.edu/oss
To receive any academic accommodation, you must be appropriately registered with
OSS. The OSS works with students confidentially and does not disclose any disability-
related information without their permission. The OSS serves as a clearinghouse on
disability issues and works in partnership with faculty and all other student service
offices.
SERIOUS ILLNESS, INJURY/PREGNANCY
Overall good health is essential to the practice of dental hygiene. To successfully
complete the program, full participation in all areas of practice is required, regardless of
medical conditions.
A student in the Dental Hygiene Program who sustains a serious illness or injury or
becomes pregnant must present written medical permission to attend classes and
clinical practice at the time of resuming studies.
The pregnant student needs to be aware of the risks of working in the dental field for the
unborn child. Occupational risks include heavy lifting, radiation, chemical, drug, and
toxins exposures, exposure to blood and airborne pathogens.
Pregnant students must provide the Dental Hygiene Department Chair and Clinical
Coordinator with written permission to participate in radiology and clinical courses. The
Health Services and the course instructor must also receive copies of this medical
clearance.
Pregnant students must wear a fetal monitor badge in addition to a radiology badge
during all clinical and laboratory sessions (second, summer, third, and fourth semesters).
A due date must be noted in writing by the attending physician. Please consult with the
Department Chair or Clinical Coordinator for more information and necessary forms.
PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT
This course uses Canvas and follows institutional and legal guidelines to ensure the
privacy and confidentiality of all students. Processes and systems used in this course—
including online learning platforms, assessments, and communications—are designed to
protect student information in accordance with FERPA (Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act) and institutional policies.
Any submitted assignments, discussions, or evaluations are handled securely and are
accessible only to authorized individuals. Students are encouraged to refrain from sharing
personal health or academic information in public forums and to contact the instructor
directly with any sensitive concerns.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT STATEMENT
HR-003-001.2018-Policy-Prohibiting-Sexual-Harassment.pdf (bergen.edu)
https://bergen.edu/wp-content/uploads/HR-008-001-2023-Title-IX-Policy-and-
Procedures-Updated-11.2025.pdf
STATEMENT ON ACCEPTABLE USE OF BCC TECHNOLOGY:
Acceptable-Use-Policy.pdf (bergen.edu)
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Bergen Community College provides exemplary support to its students and offers
a wide variety of opportunities and services. A comprehensive array of student
support services, including advising, tutoring, academic coaching, and more, is
available online at https://bergen.edu/currentstudents/.
SIDNEY SILVERMAN LIBRARY ONLINE RESOURCES:
https://bergen.libguides.com/dental
COURSE OUTLINE, READING ASSIGNMENTS, COMPETENCIES and CALENDAR
This course outline and calendar is subject to change depending on the progress of the
class. Due to the amount of material to be covered in this course, it is recommended that
you read your textbook chapter(s) before the lecture or laboratory to familiarize yourself
with the material that will be covered in the lecture or laboratory session. You are
responsible for the information covered in assigned readings, materials covered in lecture
and lab, course goals, and supporting core competencies. Following each session, you
should re-read the required reading assignment, complete any identification exercises,
and review any lecture notes.
WEEK
TOPIC/ACTIVITY
READING
ASSIGNMENTS
DH AND AH
CORE
COMPETENCIES
1
Lecture
Review Course Syllabus
Laboratory
The Dentitions
Dentition Periods
(Chapter 15) 197-201
(DEHA)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
2
Lecture
Overview of the Dentitions
Dental Anatomy Terminology
Considerations for Tooth Study
Laboratory
Permanent Anterior Teeth
Incisors
(Chapter 15) 201-210
(DEHA)
(Chapter 16) 210-224
(DEHA)
DH.
1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
3
Lecture
Oral Cavity and Pharynx
Jaws, Alveolar Processes, and
Teeth
Oral Cavity Proper
Surface Anatomy
Oral Region
Laboratory
Permanent Anterior Teeth
Incisors (continued)
(Chapter 2) 9-18
(DEHA)
(Chapter 2) 9-20
(AHN)
(Chapter 16) 200-224
(DEHA)
DH.
1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
Examination 1 (weeks 1-3)
4
Lecture
Examination #1
Laboratory
Permanent Anterior Teeth
Canines
(Chapter 16) 224-230
(DEHA)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
5
Lecture
Skeletal System
Skeletal System Overview
Bones of Head and Neck
Laboratory
Permanent Posterior Teeth
Premolars
Skeletal System (continued)
(Chapter 3) 20-71
(AHN)
(Chapter 17) 231-247
(DEHA)
(Chapter 3) 20-71
(AHN)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
DH. 2.1.3
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
6
Lecture
Occlusion
Laboratory
Occlusion (continued)
Permanent Posterior Teeth
Premolars (continued)
(Chapter 20) 285-302
(DEHA)
(Chapter 20) 285-302
(DEHA)
(Chapter 17) 231-247
(DEHA)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
DH. 2.1.3
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
Examination 2 (weeks 4-6)
7
Lecture
Examination #2
Laboratory
Permanent Posterior Teeth
Molars
(Chapter 17) 247-264
(DEHA)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
8
Lecture
Muscular System
Cervical Muscles
Muscles of Facial Expression
Laboratory
Permanent Posterior Teeth
Molars
(Chapter 4) 72-84
(AHN)
(Chapter 17) 247-264
(DEHA)
DH.
1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
9
Lecture
Muscular System
Muscles of Mastication
Hyoid Muscles
(Chapter 4) 84-96
(AHN)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
Muscles of the Tongue
Muscles of the Pharynx
Laboratory
Primary Dentition
(Chapter 18) 265-274
(DEHA)
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
10
Lecture
Temporomandibular Joint
Temporomandibular Joint
Overview
Jaw Movements with Muscle
Relationships
Laboratory
Primary Dentition (continued)
(Chapter 5) 97-105
(AHN)
(Chapter 19) 275-284
(DEHA)
(Chapter 18) 265-274
(DEHA)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
DH. 2.1.3
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
Examination 3 (weeks 7-10)
11
Lecture
Examination #3
Laboratory
Primary Dentition (continued)
(Chapter 18) 265-274
(DEHA)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
12
Lecture
Nervous System
Nervous System Overview
Central Nervous System
Peripheral Nervous System
Nerves to Head and Neck and
Associated Structures
Laboratory
Permanent and Primary
Dentition
Review
(Chapter 8) 134-159
(AHN)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
13
Lecture
Vascular System
Vascular System Overview
Arterial Blood Supply to Head
and Neck
Venous Drainage to Head and
Neck
Glandular Tissue
Glandular Tissue Overview
Salivary, Thyroid, Parathyroid,
Thymus Glands
Laboratory
Permanent and Primary
Dentition
Review
(Chapter 6) 106-124
(AHN)
(Chapter 7) 125-133
(AHN)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
14
Lecture
Lymphatic System
Lymphatic System Overview
Lymph Nodes of Head
Fasciae and Spaces
Fasciae and Spaces Overview
Spread of Infection
Infection Process Overview
Laboratory
Permanent and Primary
Dentition
Review
(Chapter 10) 201-214
(AHN)
(Chapter 11) 215-228
(AHN)
(Chapter 12) 229-238
(AHN)
DH.1.1
DH. 1.2
DH. 2.1.1
CC 1.1
CC 1.2
CC 1.3
CC 1.4
Examination 4 (weeks 11-14)
15
Lecture
Examination #4
Laboratory
Make-up Quizzes/Examinations
This Course Outline and Calendar are tentative and subject to change, depending upon
the progress of the class