Detection of Anatomical Discrepancy in Mandible by Digital Panoramic Radiography: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: The imaging modality that has been converted to a seldom-used in dental practice and can be appreciated diagnostic tools
in the dentist’s exploitation is panoramic radiography. It is a two-dimensional (2D) image that is steadily used for innumerable investigative
tenacities as it provides broad coverage of the maxillofacial region in a single image. To dodge injury to several vital structures in the
maxillofacial region, the precise locality of the structures should be recognized prior to any invasive surgical procedures expending apposite
radiographic technique.
Aim and objectives: The aims and objectives of this study were to assess the radiographic discrepancy of anatomical landmarks in the mandible
on digital radiographs and to define how frequently different maxillofacial structures are perceived on digital panoramic radiography.
Materials and methods: A total of 200 panoramic radiographs were studied for normal anatomical disparities, such as mandibular canal,
mental foramen, the anterior loop of mental nerve, and incisive canal. Two autonomous observers assessed the scores recorded and further
was tabulated according to the desired criteria.
Results: In the present study, with a trial size of 200, the mandibular canal was evident in 92%. In 3% of the cases, with poor perceptibility
anterior looping of the mental nerve was visible. The mental foramen showed good visibility in 77%. In 32% of the cases, the incisive canal was
witnessed. The Chi-square test applied displayed the statistical variance considering p value <0.05 as statistically significant value.
Conclusion: According to the results of the present study, it could be established that panoramic radiographs provided sufficient information
for mental foramen and mandibular canal. They remain the most essential tools used for assessment of anatomical landmarks and appear to
have the best fiscal, edifying process.
Keywords: Anatomical landmarks, Anterior loop of mental nerve, Incisive foramen, Mandibular canal, Mental foramen, Panoramic radiography.
Journal of Dental Sciences and Oral Rehabilitation (2019): 10.5005/jp-journals-10086-1223