Radiological Assessment of Egyptian Mandible Morphometric Parameters Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Abstract

Introduction: Accurate appraisal of bone dimensions and morphology is essential for preoperative planning.The present study was conducted to estimate the different morphometric parameters and to determine the mandibular canal and mental foramen location using CBCT.Material and Methods: CBCT imaging of 48 Egyptians was performed.The mandibles were investigated around the 1st molar, for total height (TH), upper distance (UD), lower distance (LD), total thickness (TT), buccal cortical bone thickness (BCB), lingual cortical bone thickness (LCB) and cancellous bone thickness (CAB), diameter of the mandibular canal (DOM) and gonial angle (GA).Variations in mandible shape and mental foremen sites were also assessed.Results: A significant difference between the mean TH in both groups was detected, while the mean UD and LD showed insignificant differences.The mean values of TT and CAB were greater in males however the mean BCB and LCB were greater in females.DOM was greater in males but statistically insignificant.Statistically insignificant differences between the mean GA in females (greater) and males were observed.The TH, LD, TT and CAB, DOM showed positive correlations to the age in both groups however the UD, BCB, LCB and GA showed negative correlations.The commonest position of the mental foramen was opposite the apex of the fifth tooth (54.2%).The shape of the mandible were categorized into type A (83.3%), B (0%), C (10.4%) and straight (6.3%).Conclusion: Mandibular measurements and morphology are unique and their assessment by CBCT becomes crucial before any dental implant.