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Bifid Mandibular Canals: A Pediatric Case Series with Clinical Implications
Chaitanya P Puranik1, Rita Chandki2, Rasa Mladenovic3
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States.
Aim:
The aim of this case series is to provide a detailed account of pediatric cases with bifid mandibular canal (BMC) along with clinical implications.
Background:
The prevalence of BMC on panoramic radiographs has been reported to be 0.03-1.90% in adults. Only one study reported prevalence of BMC in children based on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. As CBCT images are not routinely prescribed in children, it is important to understand if panoramic radiographs provide a valuable tool to diagnose BMC in children.
Case Description:
This case series provides a review of three cases of nonsyndromic, bilateral BMC, and associated radiculomegaly affecting mandibular permanent first molars in children during the mixed dentition stage. An overview of clinical implications of BMC in children is also discussed to help clinicians provide appropriate dental care and anticipatory guidance.
Conclusion:
Bifid mandibular canal (BMC) has never been reported in children during mixed dentition stage based on panoramic radiographs. This is the first case series reporting BMC and associated dental anomalies in children.
Clinical Significance:
This case series will help clinicians in diagnosing BMC during mixed dentition stage and understand its clinical implications. Additionally, this case series will help define future cross-sectional studies evaluating BMC and associated dental anomalies in children.
How To Cite This Article:
Puranik CP, Chandki R, Mladenovic R, et al. Bifid Mandibular Canals: A Pediatric Case Series with Clinical Implications. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(3):547-549.
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