Investigation of Accessory Foramina of the Mandible

Objectives: Buccal and lingual accessory foramina (AF) represent a rare anatomical peculiarity in the human mandible. In oral surgery, such as implantation or root amputation, these anatomical structures may be damaged. These injuries can cause complications such as sensory disturbances and bleeding.
The aim of this study was to detect buccal and lingual AF in the limited area between the right and left mental foramen, and to examine them in terms of size, location and occurrence.
Methods: N = 108 dental volume tomography images (male n = 60, female n = 48) were obtained from a patient collective of the University of Leipzig. Buccal and lingual AF were visualized and measured. Parameters including location, size, gender distribution, and frequency were evaluated using descriptive statistics. T-tests were used to assess statistical significance levels.
Results: A total of 62 accessory buccal foramina (ABF, mean cross-section = 0.687²) and 166 accessory lingual foramina (ALF, mean diameter = 0.894 mm) were identified in the 3D radiographs. There was no significant difference between the sexes and the incidence of AF. Similarly, there was no relationship between the occurrence of ABF and ALF.
Conclusions: AF represent important structures in the human mandible. Dental volume tomography currently offers the best possible radiological imaging procedure, even for the smallest anatomical structures in the lower jaw.
Therefore, for a holistic diagnosis and therapy through oral surgery, a detailed medical history, extra- and intraoral examination, as well as 3D imaging should take place.