Incidence of mandibular nutrient canals in hypertensive patients: a radiographic study

Hypertension, also called a 'silent killer,' is one of the most common medical problems seen in our profession. A prospective study was conducted in the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology to determine the incidence of the appearance of nutrient canals in the periapical radiographs of the mandibular anterior region of patients with high blood pressure. A total of 100 patients, between 10-80 years, were examined. After taking a proper history, systemic and oral examinations were done and the findings were recorded under two categories, hypertensive patients and normotensive patients. They were further subdivided according to their periodontal status. Intraoral periapical radiographs of the lower anterior region were then taken. Radiographs were interpreted with a good X-ray viewer and the use of a magnifying glass. Findings were recorded on a prepared format.