Implications of impacted mandibular cuspids on mental foramen position

Area of Science:

• Dental Anatomy
• Oral Radiology
• 3D Imaging Analysis

Background:

• The mental foramen (MF) is a critical anatomical landmark in the mandible.
• Understanding its precise location is vital for surgical procedures and implantology.
• Impacted mandibular cuspids (IMC) may influence MF positioning, but data is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the precise horizontal and vertical locations and dimensions of the mental foramen (MF) using digital panoramic images (DPI).
• To evaluate the specific influence of impacted mandibular cuspids (IMC) on the positional characteristics of the MF.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 236 digital panoramic images (DPI) selected from a larger dataset.
• A single specialist investigator assessed MF horizontal location, average position, and vertical location on a computer screen.
• Measurements included distance from the mandibular lower border (DLM) and alveolar crest (DAC).

Main Results:

• The most common horizontal MF location varied between non-impacted (NIG: c=64.70%) and impacted groups (IG: d=47.10%).
• Average MF position relative to the second bicuspid apex shifted from mesial (NIG: 47.10%) to distal (IG: 44.10%).
• Vertical distances showed differences: DLM was 14.13 mm (NIG) vs. 16.85 mm (IG); DAC was 6.56 mm (NIG) vs. 6.67 mm (IG).

Conclusions:

• The presence of impacted mandibular cuspids demonstrably affects the location and position of the mental foramen.
• These findings have implications for surgical planning in the mandibular region.