Mandibular Foramen Research Articles

Topography of the mandibular canal in male human skulls originating from different time periods.

Dynamic advances in dentistry, especially in implantology has inspired researchers to carry out many studies investigating the topography of the mandibular canal and its ethnic differences. The aim of the study was a comparative analysis of variations in the position and topography of the mandibular canal based on radiographic images of human mandibles originating from modern and medieval skulls. Morphometric examination of 126 radiographs of skulls (92 modern and 34 medieval skulls) was included. The age and sex of individuals were determined based on the morphology of the skull, the obliteration of cranial sutures, and the degree of tooth wear. To define the topography of the mandibular canal on X-ray images, we took 8 anthropometric measurements. We observed significant differences in several parameters. The distance between the base of the mandible and the bottom of the mandibular canal, the distance between the top of the mandibular canal and the crest of the alveolar arch, and the height of the mandibular body. Significant asymmetry was found for two parameters of mandibles from modern skulls: the distance between the top of the mandibular canal and the crest of the alveolar arch at the level of the second molar (p < 0.05), and the distance between the mandibular foramen and the margin of the anterior mandibular ramus (p < 0.007). There were no significant differences between measurements taken on the right and left sides of the medieval skulls. Our study revealed differences in the position of the mandibular canal between modern and medieval skulls, confirming the presence of geographical and chronological differences between populations. Knowledge of variability in the position of the mandibular canal between different local populations is fundamental for the correct interpretation of findings from diagnostic radiological studies used in dental practice and in forensic odontology or analysis of archaeological bone materials.

Position of the mandibular foramen in relation to the occlusal plane in children with skeletal class malocclusion

Frequently, practitioners use the inferior alveolar nerve block in the procedures desired on the teeth in the mandible and the surrounding tissues. This study aimed to reveal the position of the mandibular foramen (MF) according to the malocclusion types on panoramic radiographs of children aged 9-18 years living with malocclusion in Turkey. Panoramic and cephalometric radiographs of 330 patients between 9 and 18 years old were analyzed retrospectively. We grouped the skeletal malocclusion types as Class 1, 2, and Class 3 based on lateral cephalometric radiographs and evaluated the location of MF in malocclusion types according to age and gender. We observed that the distances to the occlusal plane, posterior edge, and gonion point increased with age while the distance to the anterior edge decreased. There was a significant difference according to age and gender in all malocclusion types (p&lt;0.05). We determined that the MF was positioned upward parallel to the increase in age and approached the midpoint of the ramus of the mandible from the posterior. The fact that MF is placed higher than the occlusal plane in Class 3 malocclusions compared to other types and differs by gender will guide clinicians in providing effective and safe inferior alveolar nerve block in pediatric malocclusions.

Topography and morphometry of the infraorbital and mandibular foramen of the common sloth (Bradypus variegatus) for use in the application of perineural anaesthesia.

A local anaesthetic block performed in cranial and mandibular foramina contributes towards analgesia and the reduction of systemic anaesthesia in procedures in the oral cavity. However, anatomical differences between in wild animals may require adaptations to the anaesthetic and surgical manoeuvres of the head used in domestic animals. With that in mind, we aimed to describe the topography and morphometry of the infraorbital and mandibular foramina in Bradypus variegatus, to support perineural anaesthetic approaches in the cranio-mandibular region of this species. We demonstrated that in B. variegatus there is no significant variability in the morphometric data, allowing access to the studied foramina to occur in a similar way in adult individuals. Finally, we understand that the techniques for the infraorbital and mandibular foramen needed to be adapted due to the anatomical singularities of the species, which culminated in new reference points for more assertive needle positioning.

Morphological and quantitative study of the inferior alveolar nerve canal in hemifacial microsomia.

This study aimed to probe into the anatomic course of inferior alveolar nerve canal (IANC) in hemifacial microsomia (HFM) on a large scale, morphological observations and further quantitative study were performed. Patients were classified by Pruzansky-Kaban classification. The anatomic course of IANC was analyzed morphologically with three-dimensional (3D) imaging software among 248 patients. Seven distances between fixed landmarks on both sides were measured for 236 patients. The differences between affected and unaffected sides were compared. Significant differences were found in the entrance (P < 0.001), route (P < 0.001), and exit (P < 0.05) of IANC in type IIb and III HFM. The higher the degree of mandibular deformity was, the higher the incidence of IANC variation was (P < 0.05). The distances in the horizontal aspect of IANC including from mandibular foramen to mental foramen (P < 0.05) and from mental foramen to gonion (P < 0.05) were significantly shorter on the affected side. Abnormalities of the anatomical course of IANC exist in patients with Pruzansky-Kaban type IIb and type III HFM. The reduction of IANC on the affected side in the horizontal distance is more obvious. Three-dimensional imaging assessment is recommended before surgery.

A novel extraoral ultrasound-guided approach for mandibular nerve block in Rahmani sheep

BackgroundRegional anesthesia is the favored choice in ruminant animals compared to general anesthesia, primarily due to its high safety margin and reduced demand for cost-intensive equipment in addition to its field applicability. Ultrasound-guided nerve block has gained significant attention in the field of veterinary medicine. This study utilized twenty-seven sheep of the native Rahmani breed to both demonstrate and evaluate the effectiveness of the ultrasound guided inferior alveolar nerve block technique.MethodsThe research comprised three phases: Phase 1 involved an anatomical examination of mandibles and sheep heads to locate the mandibular foramen and delineate the mandibular nerve course. Phase 2 included ultrasound-guided injection of methylene blue dye at specific sites along the mandibular nerve in cadaveric sheep heads. In Phase 3, clinical implementation of ultrasound-guided inferior alveolar nerve blocks was conducted in 27 live sheep, assessing efficacy, onset, and duration.ResultsVertical extraoral ultrasound-guided nerve block was achieved successfully in 25 sheep (98%). A preliminary cadaveric study showed good distribution of the injectate at the mandibular nerve site. The mean onset time was 138 ± 18 s, and the mean duration time was 54 ± 4.1 min. Prominent analgesia of the ipsilateral mandible, medial surface of the cheek, and lateral border of the tongue was observed.ConclusionsUltrasound-guided mandibular nerve block holds promise as a technique for providing effective and safe anesthesia in sheep undergoing mandibular procedures.

Introducing a novel intraoral mandibular nerve block technique for loco-regional analgesia in camels (Camelus dromedarius): a cadaveric study using computed tomography

The aim of this study was to introduce a novel intraoral technique for performing mandibular nerve blocks in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius). In this study, 18 adult camel skulls of varying ages and breeds were examined to determine the position of the mandibular foramen. Using a Vernier caliper, three dimensions in millimeters were measured: (1) the distance between the mandibular foramen (MF) and the caudal edge of the third molar tooth at the occlusal surface level, (2) the distance between the MF and the rostral edge border of the mandible’s ramus (RER) at the occlusal surface level, and (3) the distance between the MF and the ventral margin border of the mandible (VM). The technique was evaluated using five intact camel cadaver heads (n = 5), and a total of ten mandibular nerve blocks were described. An 18-gauge 80-mm Tuohy needle was inserted into the mouth commissure and advanced caudally while injecting a saline-methylene blue solution. The accuracy of the injection was confirmed through the infiltration of the contrast dye into the target area using computed tomography (CT) and post procedural dissection. Anatomical study of the mandibular nerve site was performed to aid the blind insertion of the needle. The findings contribute to the development of veterinary anesthesia techniques and provide anatomical considerations for clinicians performing oral surgeries in sedated camels. The results demonstrated the successful implementation of the intraoral technique, highlighting its efficacy and reliability in achieving local anesthesia for oral surgeries involving the lower jaw and teeth in sedated camels. Further research studies are needed to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of the technique and to compare it with existing approaches.

ASSESSMENT OF LOCATION AND COURSE OF INFERIOR ALVEOLAR CANAL USING CONE BEAM COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY

Background and Rationale:Forensic radiology is an evolving integral branch of forensic medicine. The most challenging tasks for forensic dentists and anthropologists has been identification and determination of sex of unknown human skeletal remains. Morphological and morphometric analysis of course and relationship with adjacent structures of mandibular canal can be useful in determining gender. CBCT being very useful in forensic contexts offering several advantages for postmortem forensic imaging including good resolution for skeletal imaging, relatively low cost, portability, and simplicity. Aim and objectives:To determine the sexual dimorphism of mandibular canal using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Materials and Methods:Course of mandibular canal classified into types based on considerable distance between the mandibular canal and the root apexes of premolars and molars, A) Catenary, B) Progressive descending, C) Straight. Location of mandibular canal was evaluated in 4 different points. Comparison of length and width of mandibular canal, prevalence of anterior loop, bifid mandibular canal, accessory mental and mandibular canal among genders. Comparison of continuous variables such as distance, length and width of canal with gender and side was done using unpaired t-test. Comparison of categorical variables with gender and side was performed using Chi-square test. The level of significant was 5%. Results:The prevalence of type of canal was highest in straight canals 53.9% followed by progressive descending and catenary canals 23.7% and 22.4% respectively. Measuring the length of canal showed statically significant result as mean length of IAC was 68.36 ± 5.24, 64.10 ± 3.18 in males and females respectively. Width and distance to adjacent structures had no significant result but dimensions were slightly lesser in females. Prevalence of anterior loop was found to be 57.9%.The most frequently observed type of bifid canal was retromolar42.9% followed by forward 28.6%, dental 19%and buccolingual 9.5%. There was no significant difference of assessing prevalence of anterior loop, accessory mental and mandibular foramen in relation to gender and side. Conclusion:Sex determination becomes one of the first priorities in the process of identification by a forensic investigator in the case of mishaps, chemical and nuclear bomb explosions, natural disasters, crime investigations, and ethnic studies.Advanced cross-sectional imaging modalities especially CBCT is a suitable tool for observing anatomic characteristics of mandibular canal in forensic odontology. In the current study we found significant result on type of course and length of canal for gender determination.

Automated localization of mandibular landmarks in the construction of mandibular median sagittal plane

ObjectiveTo use deep learning to segment the mandible and identify three-dimensional (3D) anatomical landmarks from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images, the planes constructed from the mandibular midline landmarks were compared and analyzed to find the best mandibular midsagittal plane (MMSP).MethodsA total of 400 participants were randomly divided into a training group (n = 360) and a validation group (n = 40). Normal individuals were used as the test group (n = 50). The PointRend deep learning mechanism segmented the mandible from CBCT images and accurately identified 27 anatomic landmarks via PoseNet. 3D coordinates of 5 central landmarks and 2 pairs of side landmarks were obtained for the test group. Every 35 combinations of 3 midline landmarks were screened using the template mapping technique. The asymmetry index (AI) was calculated for each of the 35 mirror planes. The template mapping technique plane was used as the reference plane; the top four planes with the smallest AIs were compared through distance, volume difference, and similarity index to find the plane with the fewest errors.ResultsThe mandible was segmented automatically in 10 ± 1.5 s with a 0.98 Dice similarity coefficient. The mean landmark localization error for the 27 landmarks was 1.04 ± 0.28 mm. MMSP should use the plane made by B (supramentale), Gn (gnathion), and F (mandibular foramen). The average AI grade was 1.6 (min–max: 0.59–3.61). There was no significant difference in distance or volume (P > 0.05); however, the similarity index was significantly different (P < 0.01).ConclusionDeep learning can automatically segment the mandible, identify anatomic landmarks, and address medicinal demands in people without mandibular deformities. The most accurate MMSP was the B-Gn-F plane.

The Maxillary Artery Loops Dangerously Approaching the Mandible's Lingula and Inferior Orbital Fissure.

The maxillary artery (MA) leaves from the external carotid artery and further courses through the infratemporal fossa to reach the pterygopalatine fossa. It typically has an ascending course either on the lateral or on the medial side of the inferior bundle of the lateral pterygoid muscle. While studying retrospectively, the computed tomography angiogram of an adult male case with peculiar tortuosities of the MA was documented. The left MA described a large inferior sagittal loop applied on the mandible's ramus's inner cortical in the pterygomandibular space's upper part. That loop reached 1.66 cm inferior to the mandible's notch and 0.5 cm superior to the mandibular foramen and was applied on the mandible's lingula (spine of Spix). That MA continued to the pterygomaxillary suture, and a second superior coronal loop was found applied on the posterior wall of the maxillary sinus, reaching the inferior orbital fissure. It is therefore mandatory to take good care in the decortication of the mandibular ramus or during osteotomies of the ramus. When an inferior loop of the MA approaches the spine of Spix, bleeding when an inferior alveolar nerve block is performed seems hardly avoidable.

Three-dimensional evaluation of mandibular lingula: Comparisons of skeletal angle classifications and growth patterns.

This study aimed to evaluate the position of the mandibular lingula (ML) in adult patients (aged between 18 and 35 years old) with different skeletal and growth patterns using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Cross-sectional. Dentistry department of University. Subjects comprised CBCT images of 150 adult patients, including 300 rami. In total, 150 CBCT aged between 18 and 35 were selected and divided into three main groups of 50 samples based on their skeletal relationships (classes I, II and III). Patients were subdivided based on their growth pattern (vertical vs. horizontal), resulting in 25 samples per subgroup. Distances between the mandibular lingula and occlusal plane (ML-OP), sigmoid notch (ML-SN), external oblique ridge (ML-EOR), internal oblique ridge (ML-IOR), posterior border of the ramus (ML-PBR), inferior border of the ramus (ML-IBR), and horizontal and vertical distances to the mandibular foramen (ML-hMF and ML-vMF). One-way ANOVA variance analysis was employed to compare different angle classifications, and Bonferroni analysis was used for multiple comparisons. The Student's t-test was also used to compare growth patterns within each main group and genders within the subgroup. The study revealed statistically significant differences in the position of the mandibular lingula between different angle classifications, growth patterns, and genders. Class II samples showed a more anterior position of the ML, whereas Class III samples displayed a more posterior position of the ML. Patients with horizontal growth patterns and Angle Class III had a more posteriorly positioned ML. Gender differences were observed, particularly in Class I and Class III classifications, suggesting that gender may influence the variability of ML position in these specific classifications. The position of the mandibular lingula showed high variability among individuals with different angle classifications, growth patterns and genders.

Evaluation of Mandibular Lingual and Foramen Location in Class I, Class II, and Class III Patients and its Significance in Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy

The precise location of the mandibular lingual (ML) and foramen (MF) is clinically significant because they are crucial anatomic markers for the inferior alveolar nerve protection in sagittal split ramus osteotomy. To determine the position of the ML and MF among subjects with class I, class II, and class III skeletal patterns to obtain information that could be useful for interventions in mandibular ramus. A retrospective study of 324 mandibular ramus from 162 patients was performed to evaluate the distance from the MF to the occlusal plane (OP) and the distance of the ML to the MF, OP, and the margin of the mandible ramus. The MF was more often located below the OP in class III (55.1%), compared with class I (29.0%) and class II (45.3%) patients (P&lt;0.05). The distance from the ML to the MF in skeletal Class III patients (10.15 ± 1.56 mm) was found to be greater than class I (9.25 ± 1.52 mm) and class II (8.34 ± 1.79 mm) patients (P&lt;0.001). And the distance from the ML to the OP was shown to be longer in class III (9.40 ± 2.53 mm) than in class I (6.85 ± 2.55 mm) and class II (6.99 ± 2.53 mm) patients (P&lt;0.001). Therefore, we believe that a low medial horizontal cut at the height of OP is dangerous for Class III patients. And the safe zone for the high medial horizontal cut over the ML should be determined according to the patient’s skeletal patterns.

A tradeoff evolution between acoustic fat bodies and skull muscles in toothed whales

Toothed whales have developed specialized echolocation abilities that are crucial for underwater activities. Acoustic fat bodies, including the melon, extramandibular fat body, and intramandibular fat body, are vital for echolocation. This study explores the transcriptome of acoustic fat bodies in toothed whales, revealing some insight into their evolutionary origins and ecological significance. Comparative transcriptome analysis of acoustic fat bodies and related tissues in a harbor porpoise and a Pacific white-sided dolphin reveals that acoustic fat bodies possess characteristics of both muscle and adipose tissue, occupying an intermediate position. The melon and extramandibular fat body exhibit specific muscle-related functions, implying an evolutionary connection between acoustic fat bodies and muscle tissue. Furthermore, we suggested that the melon and extramandibular fat body originate from intramuscular adipose tissue, a component of white adipose tissue. The extramandibular fat body has been identified as an evolutionary homolog of the masseter muscle, supported by the specific expression of MYH16, a pivotal protein in masticatory muscles. The intramandibular fat body, located within the mandibular foramen, shows possibilities of the presence of several immune-related functions, likely due to its proximity to bone marrow. Furthermore, this study sheds light on leucine modification in the catabolic pathway, which leads to the accumulation of isovaleric acid in acoustic fat bodies. Swallowing without chewing, a major toothed whale feeding ecology adaptation, makes the masticatory muscle redundant and leads to the formation of the extramandibular fat body. We propose that the intramuscular fat enlargement in facial muscles, which influences acoustic fat body development, is potentially related to the substantial reorganization of head morphology in toothed whales during aquatic adaptation.

Variations in the Position of Mandibular Foramen in Temporomandibular Ankylosis Patients.

To evaluate the variation in the position of the mandibular foramen and mandibular canal in patients with and without temporomandibular joint ankylosis. 100 temporomandibular joints were evaluated of which 50 joints were ankylosed joints (Group A) and the rest 50 were normal joints (Group B) without ankylosis. These groups were further divided into those with growing potential (less than 18years) and those without growing potential (above 18years). The position of the mandibular foramen was measured from its center to the glenoid fossa, sigmoid notch, coronoid notch, gonion and posterior border on CBCT scans. The position of the mandibular canal was measured from the outer aspect of the canal to the lower border of the mandible, buccal and lingual cortical plates and the alveolus in the region of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd molars. The mean distance of the foramen from the base of the skull in Group A was 19.01mm while the same for Group B was 31.26mm. The mandibular foramen was found to be closer to the occlusal plane (5.43mm) in Group A as compared to the mean distance of 6.21mm reported in Group B. There was no significant difference in the position of the foramen from the posterior border, gonion and sigmoid notch between the groups. The mental foramen wasseen more commonly posterior to the 2nd premolar and closer to the first molar region in Group A while in Group B it was seen anterior or near the 2nd premolar. In Group A, the mean distance of the canal to the buccal cortical plate in the 1st and 2nd molar regions was 3.65mm and 5.76mm, respectively, while in Group B it was 6.09mm and 6.59mm. The canal was further away from the lower border in ankylosis cases (8.79mm) than the control group (7.41mm). On comparing the unaffected side in unilateral cases with the normal mandible, the canal and the foramen location were similar to that of a normal mandible with the values in the lower range that is usually seen in normal mandibles. Ankylosis of the mandible is a debilitating condition especially when it develops in an individual prior completion of growth as it can affect the mandibular anatomy. Understanding the variations that accompany a deranged mandible can assist the surgeon in planning of surgical procedures in a manner that limits the possible complications resulting from surgery.

Measurement of the mandibular canal and mandibular incisive canal using cone beam tomography in adults from South Brazil.

To identify and measure the distance from the dental apices to the mandibular (MC) and mandibular incisive (MIC) canals, the diameter of the MC and the distances of the mental foramen (MF). In this retrospective study, cone-beam computed tomography scans of 144 adult patients (males and females) from a dental school in South Brazil were evaluated. Cross-sections were selected on the MC and the MIC paths, perpendicular to the mandibular base, and measurements were taken from the dental apices to the mandibular cortices. The measurement and location of the mandibular and mental foramen on both sides were compared. Paired t-tests compared sides, while Student's t-tests compared sexes (P < 0.05). The distance from the dental apices to the upper wall of the MC was closest in the third molar and farthest in the central incisor region. In both sexes and sides, the path of the MC is in most cases lingually in the molar regions and moves to the buccal region from the second premolar. The MF emerges in the regions between the premolars or near the second premolar. The results of this study highlight the importance of evaluating specific individual characteristics of a given population.

Anatomical variations of mandibular lingual foramen and its bony canals in Turkish Cypriot population: a cone-beam computed tomography study

Anatomical variations of mandibular lingual foramen and its bony canals in Turkish Cypriot population: a cone-beam computed tomography study

Role of Age, Gender and Vertical Facial Type on Anatomical Location of Mandibular Foramen in Paediatric Population: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Pain management is paramount in paediatric dental care, influencing patient cooperation and future perceptions of dental treatment. The widely used Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block (IANB) anaesthesia faces challenges in children due to anatomical variations. The position of the mandibular foramen, which evolves with age, growth patterns, and facial types, necessitates customised approaches for effective paediatric pain management. Aim: To identify the position of the mandibular foramen amongst children aged 7-14 years with respect to age, gender, and facial types. Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional study conducted in West Bengal, India, 126 children aged 7-14 were investigated from March 2021 to August 2022. The Orthopantomograms (OPG) and lateral cephalograms were assessed for the location of the mandibular foramen with respect to age, sex, and facial type in clear radiographs with normal growth. Statistical analysis encompassed descriptive statistics, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and multiple linear regression analysis. Results: A total of 126 x-rays were analysed across age, gender, and facial types, showing a mean age of 10.78 years. There were 52 (41.3%) males and 74 (58.7%) females. The distribution of subjects according to facial types was as follows: short (n=33, 26.2%), normal (n=19, 15.1%), and long (n=74, 58.7%). The vertical position of the mandibular foramen increased with age. No significant gender difference was observed regarding the vertical position of the mandibular foramen. However, a significant variation across facial types was observed, with individuals with normal faces exhibiting a greater vertical position. Conclusion: This study revealed that the vertical position of the mandibular foramen increases with age. There was no significant difference found between males and females in the location of the mandibular foramen; however, individuals with normal faces exhibited a greater vertical position of the same

The relative location of mandibular foramen to occlusal plane: A cone-beam computed tomography study

The relative location of mandibular foramen to occlusal plane: A cone-beam computed tomography study

Use of Adult Dry Human Mandibles to Study of Mandibular Foramen from Various Bony Landmarks.

Precise knowledge of the mandibular foramen's location is essential for clinical and surgical procedures, especially the inferior alveolar nerve block. Variability in its position concerning different bony landmarks can significantly impact clinical outcomes. This study examined 30 Adult dry human mandibles to determine the mandibular foramen's positions in relation to specific bony landmarks: the occlusal plane, posterior border of the ramus, and lingula. Measurements were obtained using a calibrated digital caliper, and statistical analysis was performed. The study revealed significant variations in the position of the mandibular foramen. In relation to the occlusal plane, the mandibular foramen was found at an average height of approximately 15.2 mm (±2.1 mm). Regarding the posterior border of the ramus, it was situated at an average distance of about 18.5 mm (±3.4 mm). In relation to the lingula, the average distance was approximately 21.8 mm (±4.0 mm). These results underscore the considerable individual differences and anatomical variations in the mandibular foramen's location among the studied specimens. The observed variations in the position of the mandibular foramen emphasize the need for clinicians and surgeons to be cognizant of these differences when performing procedures involving the inferior alveolar nerve block. Understanding these anatomical variations is crucial for enhancing clinical precision, reducing complications, and ensuring optimal outcomes.

Topographical anatomy of the mandibular foramen in the dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius): an extraoral approach for the inferior alveolar nerve blocks.

Understanding the clinical anatomy of the head is essential for performing proper inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) block anesthesia to facilitate invasive dental procedures in camels. However, osteometric data related to the IAN in camels are lacking. This study was carried out to accurately locate the mandibular foramen (MF) and the course of the IAN in the camel head and to establish an approach for its localization in clinical practice. To achieve these aims, eight osteometric measurements were used to determine the location of the MF in relation to its surrounding structures in six cadaveric skulls of adult camels. Four camel heads were dissected, and the course of the IAN inside the mandibular canal was studied. In addition, four heads were used as a trial for the extraoral approach to the IAN block using contrast radiographs based on established metric indices. Dissection of the four camel heads revealed that the MF was located near the intersection of two lines passing through the occlusal surface of the mandibular cheek teeth and at the midpoint of the zygomatic process of the temporal bone. Significant differences were not observed between the right and left mandibles. Successful deposition of the contrast medium near the MF was observed in all examined specimens. This study reports a new, simple approach to reaching the IAN at the MF. However, further clinical validation of the proposed technique is required.

Comparison of Elongation and Calcification Patterns of Styloid Process on Panoramic and Cone Beam Computed Tomography Images

Purpose: The styloid process (SP) is part of the temporal bone that is a cylindric bony projection located immediately in front of the stylomastoid foramen. The normal reported length of the SP ranges from 20 to 32 mm and longer than 30 mm was considered to be elongated SP. The aim of this study was to compare the SP findings (length, type, and calcification pattern) on panoramic and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: 163 patients who had panoramic and CBCT images in the same year were included to the study. On panoramic images calcifications beyond the mandibular foramen were classified as elongated SP while on CBCT images SP which had measured more than 30mm were accepted as elongated. Varying SP calcification classifications were reported by different researchers and in this study Langlais classification (Type 1 Elongated, Type 2 Pseudoarticulated, and Type 3 Segmented), the most accepted classification, was used. Calcification pattern were classified as calcified outlined, partially calcified, nodular, and completely calcified. &#x0D; Results: This study included 35 (21.5%) men, 128 (78.5%) women, 163 patients with mean age 46.13 ± 0.91 (21-65) years. On panoramic images 101 (62%) normal, 45 (27.6%) bilateral and 17 (10.4) unilateral elongated SP were detected. On CBCT images 85 (52.1%) normal, 56 (34.4%) bilateral and 22 (13.4%) unilateral elongated SP were detected. The agreement of the two imaging modalities was calculated as moderate (58.4%). Type 1 SP and partially calcified were the most common features of SP in both imaging modalities. &#x0D; Conclusion: Some SP cases, which are evaluated as not elongated in panoramic images, can be detected as elongated in CBCT images. Therefore, it is recommended to evaluate SP with CBCT in prevalence studies and cases where length is critical.