The problem with “borrowed” anatomy faculty:why medical anatomy isn’t enough for dental education
10.5115/acb.25.166
- Author:
Joe IWANAGA
;
Norio KITAGAWA
;
R. Shane TUBBS
- Publication Type:Review Article
- From:Anatomy & Cell Biology
2025;58(4):501-503
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
As dental schools increasingly share anatomy curricula with medical programs, a growing mismatch is emerging between what dental students need and receive. While head and neck anatomy is essential for all health professionals, dental students require significantly more detailed, region-specific anatomical knowledge, especially regarding the oral cavity, neurovascular structures, and surgical landmarks. Yet, this level of instruction is often delivered by medical school faculty unfamiliar with the unique clinical demands of dentistry. This commentary highlights the limitations of the “borrowed” faculty model and argues for dedicated, dental-aware anatomy educators actively engaged in anatomical research to ensure competent, confident clinical performance by future dentists.
