Canal Localization in Dry Mandibles: Two-Dimensional versus Three-Dimensional Imaging

Abstract

Context and Aim: Dental implants are widely used for the rehabilitation of edentulous arches. Yet, placement of oral implants in the mandible is associated with numerous complications, including hemorrhage and neurosensory disturbances. Enumerating precise information concerning the vital structures of the mandible, thus, becomes all the more important before the placement of implants. The aim of the present study was to determine the efficiency and accuracy of digital orthopantomography (OPG) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in determining the location of mandibular canal in preoperative assessment of the mandibles for implant placement. Materials and Methods: Ten dry edentulous mandibles of adult humans were selected for this study which comprised two phases, namely a radiographic phase and an in vitro phase. The radiographic phase was based on the obtaining digital orthopantomographs and cone-beam computed tomograms. During the in vitro phase, all the mandibles were sectioned at an angle of 90° to the inferior border of the mandible, and in vitro measurements were obtained. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS statistics 20 (Chicago, IL, USA). Paired and unpaired t-tests were used to do a comparative analysis of the two modalities used. P