Clinical implications of the styloid process elongation: what the dental practitioner should know

Abstract

The styloid process (SP) is a subtle osseous projection that arises from the undersurface of the temporal bone. It forms, with the styloid ligament and the lesser cornu of the hyoid bone, the stylohyoid chain. SP offers attachment to different muscles and ligaments and is surrounded by major nerves and vessels. Elongation of the SP is an uncommon condition. Some patients with elongated SP may experience a set of symptoms referred to as Eagle syndrome. The latter symptoms develop as a consequence of an aberrant SP irritating nearby anatomic structures. Eagle syndrome diagnosis is challenging; various imaging techniques are helpful in identifying the SP elongation, among them panoramic radiographs and three-dimensional images like CT and CBCT scans, which allow for better visualization. Depending on the severity, surgical or conservative treatment options are available for Eagle syndrome. However, it is advised to start out conservatively.