The mental foramen: 3. Size and position on panoramic radiographs

Panoramic radiographs were made of 75 dry, adult human mandibles. The size and position of the mental foramen in relation to the second premolar was determined. The mental foramen on panographic radiographs was slightly larger than reported on periapical radiographs. The average position of the foramen was mesial and below the radiographic apex of the tooth. Panoramic radiography may account for a distal shift of the foramen and a 23% increase in size of the mandibles examined.