Evaluation of mandibular incisive canal and its relationship to adjacent anatomical landmarks using cone-beam computed tomography

Abstract

Introduction: One of the most common accidental complications that occur during surgical procedures in the mandibular interforaminal region is the numbness of the chin and lower lip. This happens when vital structures such as the mental foramen, the mandibular incisive canal (MIC) and the anterior loop of the inferior alveolar nerve are not properly identified and protected. orthopantomogram has the least accuracy in identifying this structure. Hence, a better image such as computed tomography or cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) should be used in the inter-mental foramen area. Aim: The aim is to assess the presence, position, and dimensions of MIC and its relationship to adjacent anatomical landmarks using CBCT. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 patients with 100 MICs of age 20–70 years are studied, and the collected data were subjected to statistical analysis. Results: Statistically significant result was obtained with the MIC to root tip of canine, MIC to lower cortex, MIC to buccal cortical plate, and diameter of MIC with regard to gender, which is more in males. MIC is more toward the buccal plate, and there is no statistically significant difference between the right and left sides. The diameter of MIC is larger in males compared to females and larger on left side compared to right side. Conclusion: Analyzing MIC using CBCT scans can be a useful tool in avoiding implant surgical complications in the anterior mandible.