IADR Abstract Archives
Characterization of Accessory Mental Foramen in an Adults Chilean Population
Objectives: The recognition of key anatomical structures is decisive to avoid complications in the dental clinical practice. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is a complementary exam recommended for the planning of different procedures in dentistry. With this exam, anatomical variants can be identified, such as the Accessory Mental Foramen (AMF). The objective was to determine the frequency and characteristics of AMF in an adult Chilean population from Valdivia city, Chile.
Methods: This is an observational study that included 247 CBCT exams from different radiological centers from Valdivia. According to the selection criteria, 143 CBCT exams were included. This study was approved by the Scientific Ethics Committee of the Valdivia Health Service.
Results: AMF was identified in 25 patients representing 17.48%. From this result, 80% were found in females. AMF was most frequently identified in patients from 18 to 39 years old. The average distance between AMF and Mental Foramen (MF) was 5.76 mm, which corresponds to 2 mm the minimum distance and 11.5 mm the maximum distance. The average distance between AMF and the nearest dental apex was 5.36 mm, and the minimum and maximum distance were 0.8 mm and 10.2 mm, respectively. The root apex of the second premolar was most frequently associated with the AMF, representing 60% (n=15).
Conclusions: This study confirms the importance of the correct evaluation of the mental region before initiating procedures in the area, which is vital to prevent injuries associated with this anatomical variant.
Methods: This is an observational study that included 247 CBCT exams from different radiological centers from Valdivia. According to the selection criteria, 143 CBCT exams were included. This study was approved by the Scientific Ethics Committee of the Valdivia Health Service.
Results: AMF was identified in 25 patients representing 17.48%. From this result, 80% were found in females. AMF was most frequently identified in patients from 18 to 39 years old. The average distance between AMF and Mental Foramen (MF) was 5.76 mm, which corresponds to 2 mm the minimum distance and 11.5 mm the maximum distance. The average distance between AMF and the nearest dental apex was 5.36 mm, and the minimum and maximum distance were 0.8 mm and 10.2 mm, respectively. The root apex of the second premolar was most frequently associated with the AMF, representing 60% (n=15).
Conclusions: This study confirms the importance of the correct evaluation of the mental region before initiating procedures in the area, which is vital to prevent injuries associated with this anatomical variant.