Key Terms
When learning about head and neck anatomy, it is essential to first look at the terminology to ensure that you understand everything clearly.
Term |
Definition |
| Anterior | Toward the front |
| Buccal | Region of the head that refers to structures closest to the inner cheek |
| Circumvallate Papillae | Large papillae (taste buds) located toward the very back of the tongue |
| Deep | Closer to the body’s core |
| Fossa | Hollow, grooved, or depressed area in a bone |
| Inferior | Structures that are closer to the feet |
| Lateral | Toward or from the side |
| Mental | Region of the head pertaining to or located near the chin |
| Occipital | Region of the head overlying the occipital bone and covered by the scalp |
| Oral | Region of the head pertaining to or located near the mouth |
| Orbital | Region of the head pertaining to or located around the eye |
| Parotid Duct | Duct associated with the parotid salivary gland, which opens into the oral cavity at the parotid papilla |
| Posterior | Toward the back |
| Sphenoid Sinuses | Sinuses that are located in the sphenoid bone |
| Superficial | On or near the surface |
| Zygomatic | Region of the head pertaining to or located near the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) |
