The final step in the oral exam is to inspect and palpate the major anatomic divisions of the neck
- The anterior triangle is defined by the mandible superiorly and the sternocleidomastoid posteriorly.
- The posterior triangle is bounded by the sternocleidomastoid anteriorly, the trapezius posteriorly, and the clavicle inferiorly.
- The submandibular area is bounded by the mandible laterally and anteriorly. The floor of the mouth bounds submandibular area superiorly.