Assessment of the Mandibular Canal and Mental Foramen Variations Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Statement of the Problem: It is crucial to have sufficient knowledge about inferior alveolar canal variations in mandibular surgeries. Anatomic imaging of the mandibular canal prior to surgical procedures such as implant placement and sagittal split osteotomy is essential for achieving the best results and confronting minimal complications. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine normal variations of the mandibular canal and mental foramen in a selected Iranian population. Material and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 334 cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) of patients , comprising of 119 males and 215 females , aged between 15-75 years (mean age, 45±7.5 years). The prevalence of anterior loop, the level of mandibular canal cortication, and mental foramen variations were recorded on CBCT images. Results: Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in the prevalence of the anterior loop and mental foramen variations in both sides regarding the age and gender (p>0.05). Anterior loop was detected in 90.5% of cases, while accessory mandibular canals were observed in 4.6% of the patients. More than one mental foramen was detected in 5 (4.2%) men and 17 (7.9%) women in the right side and in the left side; this was detected in 11(9.2%) men and 10 (4.7%) women. No significant differences were found in the number of mental foramen regarding to gender and age in both sides (p>0.05). A non-significant relationship was observed between the age groups, the gender, and the prevalence of accessory canals. Moreover, statistical analysis did not demonstrate a significant relationship between gender and mandibular canal cortication in both sides. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that there were numerous anatomical variations of the mandibular canal, mental foramen and, anterior loop.