Characteristics of anatomical landmarks in the mandibular interforaminal region: A cone-beam computed tomography study

OBJECTIVES This study was conducted to assess appearance, visibility, location and course of anatomical landmarks in mandibular interforaminal region using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). STUDY DESIGN A total of 96 CBCT examinations was re-evaluated to exploit anatomical landmarks. The examinations used the Promax 3D CBCT unit. A sole examiner carried out all the measurements. Visibilities of the anatomical landmarks were scored using a four-point rating scale. RESULTS The mandibular foramen, anterior loop, incisive canal and lingual foramen were observed in 100, 84, 83, 49% of the images, respectively. The mean size, diameter and width of anterior loop, incisive canal and lingual foramen were obtained 3.54 ± 1.41, 1.47 ± 0.50 and 0.8 ± 0.09 mm, respectively. CONCLUSION It is not safe to recommend any definite distance mesially from the mental foramen. The diameter of the canals and foramens should be determined on a case-by-case basis to exploit the appropriate location for each individual.