An Alternative Classification Scheme for Accessory Mental Foramen.

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• The mental foramen (MF) is a key mandibular landmark, with variations including accessory mental foramina (AMFs).
• Understanding AMF anatomy is crucial for preventing surgical complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significance of recognizing and classifying accessory mental foramina (AMFs).
• To propose a novel classification scheme for AMFs.

Main Methods:

• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of 593 patients were analyzed.
• A new classification system for AMFs was developed based on location, relation to tooth apices, and origin.
• Statistical analysis included chi-squared tests and descriptive statistics.

Main Results:

• Eighty accessory mental foramina (AMFs) were identified in 71 patients, with some exhibiting bilateral or double occurrences.
• The most frequent AMF location was posterior to the mental foramen (MF).
• A new AMF classification identified Type I (44.5%), Type II (48.6%), and Type III (6.7%) origins.

Conclusions:

• The study identified previously unclassified AMF locations, emphasizing their clinical importance.
• The proposed classification scheme can aid in recognizing AMFs and preventing surgical complications.
• This classification may serve as a foundation for future research on mandibular anatomy.