A cone-beam computed tomography study of the anatomical relationships between mandibular teeth and the mandibular canal, with a review of the current literature

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate age- and sex-related changes in the anatomical relationships between the roots of the molars and premolars and the mandibular canal using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. A total of 243 patients (116 males, 127 females) aged 16-83 years for whom previous CBCT scans were available were enrolled in this study. The patients were subcategorized by sex and age (Group I, <21 years; Group II, 21-40 years; and Group III, >40 years). The distances between the mandibular canal and the molars and premolars were measured. The mandibular canal was significantly closer to the root apices of the second and third molars than to the apices of other evaluated teeth (p < 0.05). All measurements were significantly higher in male than in female subjects (p < 0.05). Group I subjects exhibited significantly shorter distances between the mandibular canal and root apices of the first and second premolars, and the molars, than those of Group II and III subjects (p < 0.05). Direct contact relationships were found in 1.6%, 3.3%, 3.3%, 16%, and 32.2% of teeth (running from the first premolar to the third molar, respectively). Age and sex influenced the anatomical relationships between mandibular teeth and the mandibular canal, and these should be considered when planning endodontic and surgical procedures to avoid potential nerve injury.

Keywords: cone-beam computed tomography; inferior alveolar nerve; mandibular canal.