Canalis sinuosus mimicking root resorption: a case report

The clinical significance of an anatomical structure called the canalis sinuosus, which carries the anterior superior alveolar nerve, is evident in studies highlighting its potential to mimic a root lesion, leading to the possibility of inappropriate endodontic treatments, as well as the possibility of damage to undetected nerve branches during dental implant placement and even postsurgical paresthesia. When a radiographic examination was conducted prior to surgical extraction of impacted third molars in a 23-year-old woman, panoramic radiography showed a radiolucent image resembling resorption at the middle root third of the maxillary left lateral incisor. Following pulpal sensitivity tests, additional radiography, and cone beam computed tomography, it was determined that the radiolucency was a canalis sinuosus masquerading as an inflammatory root lesion. This case underscores the critical importance of anatomical knowledge during diagnosis, as familiarity helps to prevent errors in radiographic interpretation and avoid inappropriate treatment.