Cone-beam computed tomography evaluation of bifid mandibular canal in a Turkish population

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to examine the prevalence of bifid mandibular canals (BMC) in a Turkish population, using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methodology: The CBCT images of 350 untreated patients (178 male, 172 female ranging in age between 18 and 65,) were included in this study. The presence or absence of BMC was determined in axial, sagittal, and coronal planes by considering gender and side. For statistical evaluation, a chi‑square test was used to determine any differences in the prevalence of BMC with significance set at 5%. Results: BMCs were observed in 129 out of 700 sides (18.42%) and 97 out of 350 patients (27.71%), of which, 55 were in males and 42 in females. Regardless of gender, the right side was more frequently affected (73%). Male patients showed higher prevalence (15.71%) than the female patients (12%). Conclusion: BMC was observed in 27.71% of examined Turkish subjects and detected more frequently in males and on the right side.