CBCT assessment of gubernacular canals in relation to eruption disturbance and pathologic condition associated with impacted/unerupted teeth.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to demonstrate the imaging characteristics of gubernacular canals (GCs) in impacted/unerupted permanent teeth and to determine whether these characteristics differ as a result of the presence of eruption disturbances or pathologic conditions associated with impacted/unerupted teeth. STUDY DESIGN: GCs were retrospectively analyzed by using cone beam computed tomography in 250 patients with 753 impacted/unerupted permanent teeth (105 males, 145 females; mean age, 21.09 ± 14.45 years; range 6-70 years). RESULTS: The rate of detection of GCs was significantly lower in cases with eruption disturbances than in those without eruption disturbances. An inverse correlation was observed between age and detection of GCs. Similarly, root resorption of adjacent teeth and resorption of impacted/unerupted teeth were associated with lower rates of detection of GCs. However, no association was found for widening of the follicular space. Regression analysis determined disturbed eruption pattern as the most important factor for the absence of GCs. CONCLUSIONS: The absence of GC may indicate a disturbed eruption pattern of the tooth and may increase the risk of complications related to impaction resulting in a tooth that is more likely to remain unerupted.