Classification of bifid mandibular canals using cone beam computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• The mandibular canal is a critical anatomical structure in the mandible.
• Variations in mandibular canal morphology, such as bifid canals, can impact surgical procedures.
• Understanding the relationship between bifid canals and third molars is essential for dental practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To classify the morphology of bifid mandibular canals.
• To evaluate the spatial relationship between bifid mandibular canals and the roots of third molars.
• To utilize cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) for detailed analysis.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of CBCT scans from 75 patients.
• Classification of bifid canals based on the Langlais et al. (1985) system.
• Categorization of the relationship between bifid canals and third molars (Class A-D).

Main Results:

• The most common bifid canal type was unilateral Type 1 (72.6%).
• The most frequent relationship with third molars was Class D (absence of third molars) at 57.33%.
• A significant percentage of cases (21.33%) showed an intimate relationship (Class C) between the canal and third molar roots.

Conclusions:

• Unilateral bifid mandibular canals are prevalent and often extend towards or involve the third molar region.
• In cases with third molars, their roots frequently appear as a direct continuation of the bifid mandibular canal.
• CBCT imaging is effective for classifying bifid mandibular canal morphology and its relationship with adjacent structures.