Orofacial Anatomy, Histology and Embryology Syllabus for 2026-2027
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Course

DHYG-1201-001 Orofacial Anatomy, Histology and Embryology

Prerequisites

Course Description

The histology and embryology of oral tissues, gross anatomy of the head and neck, tooth morphology and individual tooth identification.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

Hours

(2 sem hrs 1 lec 4 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Students are required to have the most current edition of textbooks and workbooks.

• Anatomy of Orofacial Structures. Richard W. Brand, Donald E. Isselhard; Elsevier Publishing Co., 9th Edition.
• Illustrated Dental Embryology, Histology, and Anatomy. Margaret J. Fehrenbach, Tracy Popowics; Elsevier Publishing Co., 6th Edition.
• Illustrated Dental Embrology, Histology, and Anatomy Student Workbook. Margaret J. Fehrenbach, Tracy Popowics; Elsevier Publishing Co., 6th Edition.
• Elsevier Evolve Adaptive Quizzing for Dental Hygiene - Next Generation - All students MUST have access to Anatomy Adaptive Quizzing modules for this course. Access codes for Adaptive Quizzing are included in the book bundle purchased from the Amarillo College Bookstore.

Recommended Course Resources:

Any dental hygiene national board review book or card set.  Examples are Mosby’s or Saunders comprehensive review books and dental hygiene review card decks.

Supplies

Technical Skills and Requirements

Students will need access to a laptop, computer, or tablet for quizzes, tests, and assignments.

Students are requires to have regular, reliable access to a stable internet connection. 

Students need to be proficient in sending and receiving emails with attachments, uploading documents, and participating on discussion boards.

Computers can break, servers can crash, and electric power can go out. It is your responsibility to identify solutions for unexpected catastrophes by thinking ahead about solutions to potential problems. Possible solutions for each of the above scenarios include using a friend or relative's computer and accessing a computer in one of the computer labs on campus. Students will be responsible for bringing their tablets or laptops to every class session. Please have the battery charged up and ready to go. Students will need to ensure that the Respondus Lockdown Browser has been installed on the computer.

Utilize CTL resources for technical help. CTL Student Help Center: (806) 371-5992 or ctlstudenthelp@actx.edu

Communication

The best way to contact me is through your student email in Blackboard. I will check my emails Monday-Friday first thing in the morning and throughout the day as time allows. I will respond to your email within 24 hours. I will answer emails sent over the weekend the following Monday morning. Please remember the use of netiquette when corresponding to faculty, staff, and peers.

Other Supplies

1. Library Card for AC and/or city library
2. Computer and Internet Access, Printer, Print Cartridges
3. Index cards, Paper, Pens, Markers
4. Additional Materials as Needed

Student Performance

Course Meeting Day and Time

        Wednesday     Lecture: 10:00 am - 11:00 pm (Jones Hall Room 110)

                                Lab: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm (Jones Hall Room 110 or 136)

Additional Laboratory Faculty:   

Dr. Dennis Plunk, D.D.S.                                                                                                                            

Dr. Folger Vallette, D.D.S.

Changes to the Syllabus and the Course

The instructor reserves the right to make changes to the Syllabus and the course as deemed necessary. Any and all changes will be posted on the Blackboard Announcements page of the course and students will also be notified by email.

End-of-Course Outcomes ( Workforce Education Course Manual WECM )

Identify the histological and embryological development of the orofacial structures; label the major structures of the head and neck; and compare and contrast various teeth including the crown and root morphology.

Course Outcomes (CODA-Aligned)

In alignment with the standards of Commission on Dental Accreditation, upon successful completion of this course, the student will demonstrate competency in orofacial anatomy, histology, and embryology through the following measurable outcomes:

1.     Apply dental, anatomical, histological, and embryological terminology accurately in clinical and professional communication.

2.     Identify and differentiate normal anatomical structures of the head, neck, oral cavity, dentition, and associated systems on diagrams, models, and patients.

3.     Analyze relationships between surface landmarks and underlying structures to support clinical procedures and assessments.

4.     Explain and correlate stages of prenatal, orofacial, and tooth development with normal anatomy and developmental abnormalities.

5.     Integrate principles of cell biology, histology, inflammation, and tissue repair into the assessment of oral and periodontal health.

6.     Evaluate oral mucosa, gingival tissues, and periodontal structures to distinguish normal conditions from pathology.

7.     Classify and compare dentitions, tooth morphology, and occlusal relationships, including identification of malocclusion.

8.     Assess occlusion and mandibular function and document findings using appropriate clinical protocols.

9.     Explain and apply knowledge of head and neck anatomy, including neurovascular and muscular systems, to clinical care and pain/pathology interpretation.

10.   Apply anatomical knowledge to safely and effectively perform procedures related to local anesthesia.

11.   Analyze and interpret clinical findings to support patient-centered care, including risk assessment, referral, and treatment considerations. 

Participation and Instructor Help

Learning activities in this course are designed to enhance the understanding of concepts. As a student, you are expected to prepare in advance for these sessions and to participate in an appropriate manner.

Chapter Objectives

Book: Illustrated Dental Embryology, Histology, and Anatomy. Margaret J Fehrenbach, Tracy Popowics; Elsevier Publishing Co., 6th Edition.

Chapter 1: Face and Neck Regions

1. Define and pronounce all the key terms in this chapter.
2. Locate and identify the regions and associated surface landmarks of the face and neck on a diagram and on a patient.
3. Locate and identify the regions and associated surface landmarks of the neck on a diagram and a patient.
4. Integrate the clinical considerations for the surface anatomy of the face and neck into patient examination and care.

Chapter 2: Oral Cavity and Pharynx

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Locate and identify the divisions and associated surface landmarks of the oral cavity on a diagram and a patient. 
3. Integrate the clinical considerations for the surface anatomy of the oral cavity into patient examination and care.
4. Outline the divisions of the pharynx and identify them on a diagram.
5. Integrate the study of surface anatomy of the visible divisions of the pharynx into patient examination and care.

Chapter 3: Prenatal Development

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Outline the preimplantation period including the major events that occur during this first week of prenatal development.
3. Integrate a study of the preimplantation period of prenatal development into the development of the orofacial structures and the clinical considerations due to developmental disturbances associated with these structures.
4. Outline with main events of the second week of prenatal development during the embryonic period.
5. Outline with main events the third week of prenatal development during the embryonic period.
6. Outline with main events the fourth week of prenatal development during the embryonic period.
7. Integrate the study of the embryonic period of prenatal development into orofacial development and the clinical considerations due to developmental disturbances associated with these structures.
8. Outline the fetal period of prenatal development including the main events that occur after the eighth week until birth.
9. Identify the structures present during prenatal development on a diagram.
10. Integrate the study of the fetal period of prenatal development into orofacial development and the clinical considerations due to developmental disturbances associated with these structures.

Chapter 4: Face and Neck Development

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Outline the events that occur during facial development and describe each step.
3. Identify the structures present during facial development on a diagram.
4. Integrate the study of facial development into understanding the observed orofacial structures and the clinical considerations due to developmental disturbances of these structures.
5. Outline the main events that occur during neck development and describe each step.
6. Identify the structures present during neck development on a diagram.
7. Integrate the study of neck development into understanding the observed orofacial structures and the clinical considerations due to developmental disturbances of these structures.

Chapter 5: Orofacial Development

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Outline the events that occur during palatal development and describe each step.
3. Identify the structures present during palatal development on a diagram.
4. Integrate the study of palatal development into understanding the present structure and clinical considerations due to developmental disturbances involved in palatal development.
5. Outline the main events that occur during nasal cavity and nasal septum development.
6. Identify the structures present during nasal cavity and nasal septum development on a diagram.
7. Integrate the study of nasal cavity and nasal septum development into understanding the present structure. 
8. Outline the main events that occur during the tongue development and describe each step.
9. Identify the structures present during tongue development on a diagram.
10. Integrate the study of tongue development into understanding the present structure and the clinical considerations due to developmental disturbances involved in tongue development.

Chapter 6: Tooth Development and Eruption

1. Define and pronounce all the key terms in this chapter.
2. Outline the five stages of tooth development.
3. Integrate the study of tooth development into understanding the present tooth anatomy and the clinical considerations due to developmental disturbances. 
4. Outline the process of root development.
5. Integrate the study of root development into understanding the present tooth anatomy and the clinical considerations due to developmental disturbances.
6. Discuss periodontal ligament and alveolar process development.
7. Identify the structures present during tooth crown and root development as well as the periodontal ligament and alveolar process development on a diagram.
8. Outline the events that occur during tooth eruption.
9. Identify the structures present during tooth eruption on a diagram.
10. Integrate the study of tooth eruption into understanding the present tooth anatomy and the clinical considerations due to developmental disturbances. 

Chapter 7: Basic Cell Properties and Processes

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Discuss cell properties and components, including the cell membrane, intercellular fluid, organelles, and inclusions.
3. Identify the components of the cell on a diagram.
4. Outline the cell cycle, describing the phases of mitosis that are involved.
5. Describe the extracellular matrix surrounding the cell and its intercellular junctions
6. Integrate the study of cell anatomy into the further study of dental histology.

Chapter 8: Basic Tissue Properties and Processes

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Discuss basic tissue properties.
3. Describe epithelium properties, including its histology, classification, regeneration, turnover, and repair.
4. Describe basement membrane properties, including its histology.
5. Integrate the study of the histology of both epithelium and the basement membrane into the further study of dental histology.
6. Discuss connective tissue properties, including its histology, classification, turnover, regeneration, and repair.
7. Integrate the study of the basic histology of connective tissue into understanding the clinical considerations of the orofacial region.
8. Describe specialized connective tissue properties.
9. Describe cartilage properties, histology, development, repair, and aging.
10. Describe bone properties, histology, development, remodeling, repair, and aging.
11. Describe blood properties, plasma, and blood components.
12. Outline main microscopic events and cellular involvement for both inflammation and immune response to injury while relating them to clinical signs for both processes as well as resolution.
13. Describe the role of biochemical mediators during both inflammation and immune response.
14. Outline the main microscopic events and cellular involvement in repair process within both skin and oral mucosa.
15. Discuss atypical responses to injury as well as factors that impair healing.
16. Integrate processes of inflammation, immune response, and repair into understanding the clinical considerations of the orofacial region.
17. Describe muscle properties, classifications, and histology.
18. Describe nerve properties and histology as well as the nervous system divisions.
19. Identify the components of each basic tissue on a diagram.
20. Integrate the study of the histology of both muscle and nerve tissue into the further study of dental histology. 

Chapter 9: Oral Mucosa

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. List and describe the types of oral mucosa, characterizing each type of epithelium associated with the oral cavity.
3. Discuss the clinical considerations for oral mucosal pathology, integrating it into patient care.
4. Identify the components of each type of oral mucosa on a diagram.
5. List and discuss the clinical correlations associated with the regional differences in the oral mucosa, integrating it into patient care.
6. Discuss tongue and lingual papillae properties as well as oral mucosa pigmentation and the clinical considerations for each.
7. Discuss the turnover times for regions of the oral cavity and associated clinical correlations as well as repair and aging considerations, integrating into patient care.

Chapter 10: Gingival and Dentogingival Junctional Tissue

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. List and describe the properties of each gingival tissue zone.
3. Describe the histologic features of each gingival tissue zone and the clinical considerations for gingival tissue esthetics, integrating it into patient care.
4. Identify the components of each type of gingival tissue zone on a diagram.
5. Describe dentogingival junction properties, development, and histology.
6. Identify the structure of the dentogingival junctional tissue on a diagram.
7. Discuss turnover of the dentogingival junctional tissue and its clinical implications.
8. Discuss the clinical considerations for gingival tissue architecture as well as periodontal disease, integrating it into patient care.

Chapter 11: Head and Neck Structures

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Discuss gland properties.
3. Discuss salivary gland properties, including its histologic features and development as well as the clinical considerations concerning salivary gland pathology, integrating it into patient care.
4. Discuss thyroid gland properties, including its histologic features and development as well as the clinical considerations concerning thyroid gland pathology, integrating it into patient care.
5. Discuss properties of lymphatics, including the lymph nodes and intraoral tonsillar tissue, and the clinical considerations concerning lymphoid tissue pathology, integrating it into patient care.
6. Discuss the properties of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses as well as clinical considerations concerning each of them. integrating it into patient care.
7. Identify the components of head and neck structures on a diagram.

Chapter 14: Periodontium: Cementum, Alveolar Process, and the Periodontal Ligament

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Give an overview of periodontium properties, including its components.
3. Identify each individual component of the periodon­tium on a diagram.
4. Discuss cementum properties, development, histology, types, and repair as well as the clinical con­siderations for cementum pathology, integrating it into patient care.
5. Discuss alveolar process properties, including jaw anatomy and histology.
6. Discuss the clinical considerations with the alveolar process pathology and dental procedures, integrating it into patient care.
7. Describe periodontal ligament properties.
8. Identify the fiber groups of the periodontal ligament on a diagram and discuss the functions assigned to each of them.
9. Discuss the clinical considerations for periodontal ligament pathology and repair, integrating it into patient care.

Chapter 15: Overview of Dentitions

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Describe the two dentitions and the relationship to each other.
3. Recognize tooth types and outline the tooth numbering systems.
4. Assign the correct universal or international number for a tooth and its correct dentition period on a diagram or a skull and for a tooth model or a patient.
5. Define each dentition period and discuss the clinical considerations concerning each dentition period, integrating it into patient care.
6. Use the correct dental anatomy terminology and discuss the clinical considerations concerning tooth anatomy, integrating it into patient care.
7. Use the correct orientational tooth terms and discuss the clinical considerations concerning tooth surfaces, integrating it into patient care.
8. Identify tooth forms and discuss the clinical considerations concerning them, integrating it into patient care.

Chapter 18: Primary Dentition

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Assign the correct name and universal number for each primary tooth on a diagram and a patient.
3. Demonstrate the correct location of each primary tooth on a diagram and a patient.
4. Discuss primary teeth properties and the clinical considerations for primary dentition, integrating it into patient care.
5. Describe the general features of primary teeth and each primary tooth type as well as the specific features of each primary tooth.
6. Discuss the clinical considerations concerning primary molars, integrating it into patient care.

Chapter 20: Occlusion

1. Define and pronounce the key terms in this chapter.
2. Discuss occlusion and centric occlusion and its relationship to functional movements and patterns of the mandible.
3. Discuss arch form and the phases of arch development.
4. Describe dental curvatures and angulations.
5. Discuss centric relation, lateral and protrusive occlusions, and the mandibular rest position and how to achieve each of them on a skull, a dentition model, and a patient.
6. Demonstrate the movements of the mandible related to occlusion.
7. Discuss primary occlusion and the clinical considerations concerning it, integrating it into patient care.
8. Identify the key concepts of occlusion on a diagram, a dentition model, and a patient.
9. Discuss malocclusion and outline Angle classification of malocclusion and how it relates to patient care, including clinical considerations concerning parafunctional habits.
10. Identify on dentition models each division of Angle classification of malocclusion.
11. Demonstrate an initial occlusal evaluation on a patient and record findings.

Book: Anatomy of Orofacial Structures. Richard W. Brand, Donald E. Isselhard; Elsevier Publishing Co., 9th Edition.

Chapter 1: Oral Cavity

1. To describe the boundaries and sub-boundaries of the oral cavity and the structures in each area.
2. To define the terms vestibule, oral cavity proper, mucobuccal fold, frenum, alveolar mucosa, gingiva, exostoses, torus palatinus, and torus mandibularis.
3. To define the landmarks in the floor of the mouth and the hard and soft palate and the structures that form them.
4. To differentiate normal from abnormal anatomy in the oral cavity and to ensure a follow-up examination.

Chapter 12: Incisors  

1. To identify the particular anatomic features of incisors.
2. To compare maxillary central incisors with maxillary lateral incisors.
3. To compare maxillary incisors with their mandibular counterparts.
4. To identify an extracted incisor.
5. To recognize the normal and deviated anatomic forms of incisors.

Chapter 13: Canines

1. To understand the function of a canine in relation to its shape.
2. To understand the calcification and root completion schedules in relation to the eruption dates of canines.
3. To recognize the resemblance of canines too other anterior teeth.
4. To understand how canines are different from other anterior teeth.
5. To recognize how canines are similar to some premolar teeth.
6. To recognize and identify the anatomic structure and landmarks of the canine.
7. To compare maxillary and mandibular canines and identify each.

Chapter 14: Premolars          

1. To understand how development occurs through the formation and fusion of lobes. 
2. To understand how the form of a tooth relates to its ultimate function.
3. To recognize and name the pertinent dental anatomic form of each tooth, such as cusps, ridges, developmental grooves, triangular grooves, pits, and developmental depressions.
4. To discuss the major differences and similarities between maxillary first and second premolars.
5. To identify an extracted premolar as maxillary or mandibular, first or second, right or left.
6. To make comparisons between maxillary and mandibular premolars.
7. To compare mandibular first premolars with mandibular second premolars (development, shape, and diversities of anatomic form).
8. To describe briefly the various occlusal forms possible for a mandibular second premolar.

Chapter 15: Molars       

1. To understand the lobe formations of the crowns of molars.
2. To compare the formations of first, second, and third molars.
3. To understand the anchorage of the roots as resistance to forces of displacement.
4. To describe the details of the various molars.
5. To make comparisons among the various molars: maxillary and mandibular molars, as well as first, second, and third molars.
6. To identify each molar.

Chapter 20: Enamel, Dentin, and Pulp

1. To discuss the changes in the cells of the inner enamel epithelium (IEE) that allows them to become enamel forming cells.
2. To discuss the reciprocal relationship between enamel formation and dentin formation.
3. To describe the role of the dental papilla in the formation of the enamel organ and the shaping of the crown.
4. To describe the properties of enamel and the makeup of the enamel rod.
5. To understand the keyhole shape of the enamel rod and the direction of the hydroxyapatite crystals in different areas of the cross section of the rod.
6. To define the following terms: striae of Retzius, hypoplastic enamel, hypocalcified enamel, enamel lamellae, enamel tuft, and enamel spindle.
7. To describe the properties and components of dentin.
8. To differentiate between primary, secondary, and reparative dentin.
9. To define the following terms: interglobular dentin, dead tracts, sclerotic dentin.
10. To describe the components and aging changes of the pulp.
11. To describe and classify pulp stones.

Chapter 26: Osteology of the Skull

1. To name the bones of the neurocranium and viscerocranium.
2. To identify the various bones and sutures as seen from the anterior, lateral, posterior, inferior, and interior views of the skull.
3. To name the openings, foramina, and canals as seen from the aforementioned views.
4. To describe the boundaries of the three canal fossae and what lies within them.
5. To describe the pterygoid processes of the sphenoid bone and their components.
6. To describe in detail the various parts and landmarks of the maxillae.
7. To describe in detail the various parts and landmarks of the mandible.
8. To describe where growth takes place in the maxillae and the mandible to allow for increase in arch length.

Chapter 28: Muscles of Mastication, Hyoid Muscles, and Sternocleidomastoid and Trapezius Muscles

1. To describe the origin, insertion, action, and nerve and blood supply of the muscles of mastication.
2. To categorize the muscles according to their roles in elevation, depression, protrusion, retrusion, and lateral excursion of the mandible.
3. To describe the functions of the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles and their roles in referred pain to various areas, including the temporomandibular joint.
4. To name the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles and their roles in mandibular movement, swallowing, and phonation.

Chapter 29: Temporomandibular Joint

1. To diagram and label a sagittal section of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
2. To define the role of a synovial cavity.
3. To describe the two movements of the TMJ as the mouth opens and know where these movements take place.
4. To describe the role of the superior posterior elastic lamina, the inferior posterior collagenous lamina, and the superior and inferior heads of the lateral pterygoid muscle as the jaw goes through its various functional movements.
5. To define disc derangement, subluxation, bruxism, and TMJ sounds.
6. To discuss probable causes of TMJ pain.

Chapter 30: Muscles of Facial Expression

1. To name the various groupings or locations of the muscles of facial expression and their nerve innervations.
2. To describe the muscles of facial expression and their origins, insertions, and actions (not including the mouth).
3. To name all of the muscles surrounding the mouth and their origins, insertions, and actions.
4. To discuss the role of the buccinator muscle in mastication.

Chapter 32: Arterial Supply and Venous Drainage  

1. To trace blood from the time it returns from the vena cava to the heart, out, and back until it returns again from the entire body.
2. To trace blood supply from the heart to all areas of the oral cavity, including teeth.
3. To trace venous drainage from teeth and oral cavity back to the heart.
4. To define hematoma.
5. To discuss the possible problems associated with a posterior superior alveolar injection. 

Chapter 34: Nervous System    

1. To name the basic components of the nervous system.
2. To describe the general makeup of a spinal nerve.
3. To describe how a sensory impulse causes a motor response.
4. To name the 12 cranial nerves and their general function.
5. To describe the components and general function of the autonomic nervous system.
6. To name the specific branches of the trigeminal nerve and which areas of the face, teeth, and oral cavity  each branch supplies.
7. To describe the nerves and areas involved in general and special sensation of the tongue.
8. To discuss the nerves and pathways involved in parasympathic innervation to major salivary glands.

Chapter 36: Anatomic Considerations of Local Anesthesia

1. To understand the anatomy of the maxillary nerve as it relates to administration of local anesthesia.
2. To understand the anatomy associated with mandibular blocks.
3. To understand the different areas anesthetized by the maxillary and mandibular nerve blocks.
4. To understand the major concerns associated with different local anesthetic nerve blocks.
5. To understand the anatomic considerations during administration of local anesthesia.
6. To understand the anatomy involved in infiltration and nerve block injections.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

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If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

The Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program has specific policies that apply to student conduct within the program. These policies may be implied or written. The course syllabi and the program manual are sources for specific student conduct policies for dental hygiene students at Amarillo College.

Your professionalism will be observed continuously while you are in the program.

Expected Student Behavior

The Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program requires all students to consistently demonstrate professionalism in every aspect of their education. These expectations apply throughout your time in the program and are detailed in the course syllabi and the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Manual. Policies may be written or implied and are essential for preparing students for clinical and professional success.

Professional Standards and Expectations

As a dental hygiene student, you are expected to maintain professional conduct at all times. This includes how you present yourself, look, speak, and act with classmates, instructors, and staff. Your professionalism is continuously observed and evaluated throughout the program.

Professional Appearance

As a representative of the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program, your appearance must reflect professionalism at all times. This includes:

• Wearing clean, well-fitting attire that complies with the program dress code
• Maintaining personal hygiene and a polished, professional presentation                                        

• House shoes, slippers, or inappropriate footwear
• Bare midriffs, low-cut tops, or revealing clothing
• Torn, stained, or excessively casual clothing such as hoodies and pajamas
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Hair must be neat, well-groomed, and a natural human hair color (no bright or unnatural shades)

• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally in all situations - whether with classmates, faculty, or staff.
• Manage disagreements and conflicts calmly and maturely.
• Use professional language in all verbal and written communication.

• Take responsibility for your actions, clinical outcomes, academic performance, and professional growth.

• Strive for excellence, going beyond the minimum requirements.
• Support a positive, collaborative learning environment.
• Maintain composure and professionalism under pressure, during conflicts, or when receiving constructive feedback.

• Follow the official grievance procedure in the program manual and course syllabus.
• Maintain professionalism throughout the appeals process, including in all related communications. 

• Consistently following the program's appearance and hygiene standards.
• Communicating respectfully and clearly with all individuals.
• Accepting feedback and taking accountability for your performance and decisions.
• Demonstrating resilience, professionalism, and maturity when facing challenges.
• Appropriately addressing grade concerns or program issues by following the formal grievance process as outlined in the program manual and course syllabus.

• Repeated misconduct, such as chronic lateness, poor attitude, or failure to follow program rules.
• Any behavior that jeopardizes the health and safety of others.
• Failure to maintain appropriate hygiene or dress code.
• Disrespectful, unprofessional, or inappropriate communication in any form.
• Violating ethical guidelines.

Grading Criteria

Grading Criteria

The final course grade will be computed as follows:

30%  Chapter Tests

15%  Quizzes, Projects, Homework, and Group Lab Assignments

15%  Dental Anatomy Exam

20%  Midterm Exam

20%  Final Exam

The following grade scale applies through this course:

A = 93-100%

B = 83-92%

C = 75-82%

F = Below 75%                    

Note:  A grade of "D" is not possible in this course.

In order to pass the course, a student must achieve a final grade of 75% and meet all requirements for the course.

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy

The Tutoring for Success Policy applies to any student whose grade performance falls below a minimum of 75% on any assigned assessment. The student will be required to complete mandatory remediation assigned by the course instructor. A student will receive a remediation ticket with the instructor keeping the duplicate copy. Students will be required to complete a hand-written adaptive quiz assignment or other assignment and turn it in the following week after being assigned. Remediation will not change the student's grade. The initial grade will stand. The purpose of remediation is to strengthen the content area the student failed.

Course Requirements and Learning Activities

The due date and time for all assignments are indicated in the course calendar and related handouts. Students need to make note of these dates and times with consideration that late assignments will not be accepted and a zero will be issued for a late submission.

Assignments and Examinations

Each student is expected to be prepared for each class session by completing reading assignments so that he or she will have a broad understanding of the material prior to class. Students will be expected to participate in discussions pertaining to topics covered during class time. The classroom setting will include various teaching and learning methods to form a collaborative learning environment which will include some group work. Students will be called on to share their understanding of class session topics.

Class preparation assignments or homework assignments are to be completed before class. These class preparation assignments will assist the student to understand the subject of the class session and will allow the information to be processed at a deeper level of memory. 

The course will also consist of chapter tests, an examination on dental anatomy, reading quizzes, laboratory exercises, a midterm examination, a group project, and a comprehensive final examination. Changes in the schedule of chapter tests will be announced approximately one week in advance. Quizzes may or may not be announced in advance. Refer to the course calendar, class preparation assignments, and other uploaded materials to be covered in each class or lab period and the tentative examination dates. Also, please note the provisions of the Make-up Policy in this syllabus for missed examinations. Chapter tests and quizzes will be objective in nature (true/false, matching, and multiple-choice) with a few questions being subjective in nature (short answer, essay, and fill in the blank). The midterm examination will test information covered during the first 8 weeks of the course. The final examination will be entirely objective in nature and will test information for the entire course.

Faculty Assistance

All students are considered mature enough to seek assistance from the course director and to monitor their progress in meeting course requirements. If you have any questions concerning assignments, content, etc., or if a problem arises that warrants instructor help, please do not hesitate to call or email me to schedule an appointment. I prefer to work with a scheduled appointment to devote the time and attention necessary to meet each student's needs.

Missed Examination and Make-Up Exam Policy

Students who miss an examination must contact the instructor within two (2) business days of the scheduled exam date to request a make-up examination. Approval of a make-up exam is at the instructor's discretion. 

If approved, the make-up examination may differ in format, content, and scheduling from the original examination. A 10-point deduction will be applied to the student's exam score for any approved make-up examination, regardless of the reason for the absence. 

Failure to contact the instructor within two (2) business days may result in a grade of zero for the missed examination unless extenuating circumstances are documented and approved by the instructor.

Electronic Testing Procedures: In this course, all tests will be administered electronically through the Blackboard platform. To facilitate a smooth testing process, students are required to bring their own fully charged tablets or laptops to each scheduled test. Testing will utilize the Respondus LockDown Browser, so please ensure it is installed on your device beforehand. It is imperative that all students submit their completed tests on Blackboard before closing their laptops and/or leaving the classroom. Failure to submit within the designated timeframe may result in a grade penalty. Upholding academic integrity is paramount in this course, and any form of cheating, plagiarism, or unauthorized collaboration during tests will be strictly addressed in accordance with the AC Rights and Responsibilities policies. By participating in electronic testing, students acknowledge and agree to comply with these procedures.

Attendance

"Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class in accordance with the requirements of the course as established by the instructor." (Amarillo College Student's Rights and Responsibilities Publication). 

Absences will be monitored and evaluated to determine the student's final course grade. A student with less than 90% attendance in class or lab may fail the course. Student absenteeism jeopardizes the completion of the course. The instructor will take roll for each class and note absences for each student. Students who are not present for roll call are counted absent. Students must report any anticipated class/lab absence to the instructor. A student who leaves class or lab early is counted absent. A student will receive ONE bonus point to the final grade for perfect attendance with a prior passing minimum average of 75%.

Classroom Remediation Policy

To support student success and ensure mastery of course material, any student scoring below 75% on a test (excluding the final exam) must complete a remediation process.

Within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the grade, the student must schedule and attend a tutoring session with the program tutor. The course instructor will provide a targeted remediation assignment by email.

The remediation assignment must be completed and submitted to the instructor before the next scheduled test. Failure to complete any part of the remediation process, including timely tutoring and assignment submission, will result in a 10% deduction from the total possible points on the next test.

Repeated non-compliance within a semester will result in a meeting with the Program Director and may lead to further academic action. This policy is designed to provide timely support and promote ongoing success in the Dental Hygiene Program.

Calendar

Additional Information

The Amarillo College Catalog

The Amarillo College Academic Catalog can be viewed at:  http://catalog.actx.edu.

https://www.actx.edu/resources/