Using cone beam computed tomography to determine safe regions for implant placement

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• The mental interforaminal region of the mandible contains important neurovascular structures.
• Accurate identification of anatomical landmarks is essential for successful dental procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and trace the incisive canal in the anterior mandible.
• To describe other anatomical landmarks in this region.
• To assess the prevalence and characteristics of these landmarks using CBCT.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 40 Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans.
• Examination of axial, panoramic, and cross-sectional reconstructions.
• Inclusion of patients with edentulous, partially dentate, and completely dentate mandibles.

Main Results:

• The incisive canal was identified in 97.5% of the evaluated mandible CBCT scans.
• Multiple neurovascular canals and foramina were detected, including some distant from the midline.
• Various foramina were observed on the internal surface of the mandible.

Conclusions:

• CBCT is effective in visualizing the incisive canal and other anterior mandibular landmarks.
• Detailed preoperative assessment of these anatomical variations is critical.
• This knowledge aids in preventing complications during oral and maxillofacial surgery.