Precision mapping of mandibular canal dimensions: cone beam computed tomography insights

The purpose of this study was to provide detailed anatomical localization of the inferior alveolar canal (IAC) in the mandible area using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the Saudi population, with particular considerations including buccal cortex thickness (BCT), IAC diameter, mental foramen position (MF), and buccal shift patterns of the IAC.

This retrospective split-mouth study analyzed 126 CBCT scans of 63 males and 63 females between the age group of 18 to 65 years from the faculty of Dentistry, Taibah University, Saudi Arabia. Measurements included BCT at nine points between the first premolar and third molar area, IAC diameter, the closest point of IAC to the mandibular lower border, MF position in relation to premolar apices and mandibular border, and the location of buccal shifting of the IAC. Statistics were calculated with Student's t-test and paired t-test with the level of significance at p ≤ 0.05.

BCT showed a progressive increase from anterior to posterior regions in both genders, with the thickest measurements at the second and third molar regions (maximum: 6.05 ± 1.34 mm in females). The MF position showed considerable individual variation, with 10% of female subjects exhibiting a coronal position relative to premolar apices. The IAC diameter ranged from 2.43 to 3.80 mm. The closest position of the IAC to the lower border was mostly in the second molar area, with the shortest distances being 2.50-3.40 mm. The canal primarily exhibited a buccal shift in the second molar region in 60-81.8% of the subjects.

This study provides comprehensive anatomical mapping of the mandibular region, highlighting considerable individual variation in key anatomical parameters. The findings have significant clinical implications for various dental and maxillofacial procedures.