A Retrospective Evaluation of Mental Nerve, Mental Loop, and Incisive Canal in Turkish Population

Abstract

Objective: 3-dimensional radiographic evaluation of the intraforaminal area are crucial to prevent complications during surgical procedures. This study aimed retrospectively to determine incidence of different shapes of the foramen, and presence of the anterior loop with aid cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was performed on 176 patients whose CBCT images indicated were used. The shape and location of the mental foramen; distance between the mental foramen (MF) and mandibular incisive canal (MIC); length of the alveolar crest, basis, buccal, and lingual sides; and MIC length were evaluated based on the images. Results: The anterior loop was observed in 42.2% of patients. No significant sex dependence was found in terms of MF localization status and MF shape (P > 0.05). The mean distance of the anterior loop was 4.8±1.4 mm on the right side and 4.5±1.2 mm on the left side. The MIC was observed in all images. The mean length of MIC was 6.3±3.8 mm on the right side and 6±3.4 mm on the left side. Conclusion: Clinicians should be aware of the importance of preoperative evaluation of the intraforaminal area. Therefore, it is beneficial to use CBCT imaging techniques for preoperative planning.