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The incidence and assessment of multiple mandibular canals prior to implant placement
Author(s) -
Wright S.
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
oral surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.156
H-Index - 11
eISSN - 1752-248X
pISSN - 1752-2471
DOI - 10.1111/ors.12258
Subject(s) - medicine , mandibular canal , dentistry , mandible (arthropod mouthpart) , orthodontics , dental alveolus , radiation treatment planning , surgery , molar , botany , biology , genus , radiation therapy
Dental implants are increasingly being used to replace missing teeth, not just in the aesthetic zone, but posteriorly to increase function, preserve alveolar bone and provide posterior support. During the surgical placement of dental implants in this region, it is essential that the location and configuration of the mandibular canal is assessed to avoid serious complications. However, few dentists are aware of the differing configurations of this structure, and the incidence of multiple canals, often relying on ‘imaging centres’ to highlight the its position. Aim The purpose of this study is to investigate the incidence of multiple mandible canals, and then to use a case report to demonstrate the dangers of relying on a third party to highlight the mandibular canal. Results The incidence of multiple mandibular canals is not uncommon (3.24% of OPT 's and 31.31% of CBCT 's). Conclusions It is essential that screening for bifid and trifid canals form part of the pre‐surgical assessment. An OPT is not sufficient for this purpose and therefore it is recommended that a CBCT is used for treatment planning in the posterior mandible. It is also imperative that dentists when placing dental implants in posterior mandible should be aware of the variations of the mandibular canal and do not rely on a third party to highlight the canal structure.