Retrospective cross-sectional study of the lingual concavity of the mandible using cone-beam computed tomography

Abstract

Introduction: The curved shape of the mandible, the lingual concavity and the inferior alveolar nerve are factors that make implant placement difficult in the posterior mandibular region. The knowledge of these structures can help avoid surgical complications. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze and correlate anatomical features of partially edentulous posterior mandibles using cone-beam computed tomography images of the hemimandibles at 5, 10, and 15mm posterior to the mental foramen. Material and method: A total of 39 hemimandible specimens from 12 male and 27 female patients were used. The factors analyzed were bone thickness 2mm above the inferior alveolar canal (Thickness A), bone thickness 2mm below the alveolar crest (Thickness B), angulation and depth of the lingual concavity, mandibular height, and mandibular shape (U, C, or P). Result: Thickness A (P = 0.5355), thickness B (P = 0.2353), concavity angle (P = 0.9806) and depth (P =0.4977) were similar in both sexes. Height showed higher and statistically significant values in male population (P = 0.0099). The C shape was the most frequent (55%), followed by U (25.0%) and P (20.0%). Conclusion: The U-shaped mandibular morphology was observed in 25% of the sample. Posterior mandibular height was greater in males. The thickness and depth of the posterior mandibular areas did not vary according to sex.