The Mandibular Incisive Canal (MIC): A Panoramic Radiographic Examination

The MIC describes anterior extension of the mandibular canal, which contains a neurovascular bundle. Its presence is of interest in patients who require surgical procedures in the chin region. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of a MIC based on panoramic radiographs. Methods: 1045 panoramic radiographs randomly chosen from the population treated in the Eastman Dental Center. The data collected included: patient characteristics and presence/absence of MIC. After the presence of a MIC was established, patients (mean age: 43 years old) were classified into following groups: Group 1: Edentulous; Group 2: Partially edentulous; Group 3: Patients with full dentition or restorations. Measurements (in mm) were performed evaluating the following parameters: (A) minimum distance from the alveolar ridge; (B) maximum distance from the alveolar ridge; (C) thickness of the canal; (D) length of the canal extending anterior to the mental foramen; (E) distance (in bilateral cases) between the canals. All measurements were calculated considering the magnification scale. Results: The MIC was found in 2.7% (7 male, 21 female). 67.9% were included in group 2; 32.1% in group 3, while no cases were found in group 1. A bilateral MIC was present in 6 patients. The MIC was present at the left side in 64.7% and right side in 35.3% of the total cases. The measurements in mm are: A: 16.06 (+/- 2.8); B: 18.24 (+/- 2.73); C: 1.48 (+/- 0.57); D: 10.7 (+/- 4.95) E: 27.07 (+/- 15.57). Conclusions: This study shows the MIC frequency in the anterior mandible in order to prevent nerve injury during surgery.