Mandibular incisive canal-related prevalence, morphometric parameters, and implant placement implications: a multicenter study of 847 CBCT scans.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the epidemiological and morphological features of the mandibular incisive canal (MIC) using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in a significant sample of subjects in Brazil. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective, multicenter study assessed 847 CBCT scans performed at four oral imaging centers. The sample comprised CBCT images acquired from dentate individuals who presented at least from tooth 35 to tooth 45 in the anterior mandible region. Data regarding patient sex and age, and MIC linear measurements (length and diameter in mm), anatomical distances (to the alveolar, buccal and lingual cortexes, inferior border of the mandible, and adjacent teeth apexes), and location were obtained. RESULTS: The MIC was more prevalent in women (76.3% [p<0.001]) between the fourth and sixth decades of life (p<0.001). It was present bilaterally (p<0.001) and exhibited a mean length of 7.7 mm (standard deviation [SD]=3.7 mm). Spearman correlation and logistic regression analysis revealed collinearity between age and linear measurements (p<0.05). The mean distances varied from the initial to the final portion of the MIC, respectively, in relation to the buccal cortex (mean=2.6 mm, SD=1.27; mean=3.96 mm; SD=1.43), to lingual cortex (mean=5.13 mm; SD=1.7; mean=4.61 mm, SD = 1.65), and to the inferior mandibular border (mean = 9.32 mm, SD=1.92; mean=8.76 mm, SD=2.07 mm). The difference in the proximity of the MIC to the apex of the inferior lateral incisor was statistically significant (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Results of this study revealed a high prevalence of MIC with a bilateral pattern in women who were between the fourth and sixth decades of life. Both the distance between the MIC and the lingual cortex of the mandibular alveolar bone, and the diameter of the MIC, decreased as its trajectory assumed a more anterior position.

Prevalence of carotid artery calcifications among 2,500 digital panoramic radiographs of an adult Brazilian population.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study was to analyze the epidemiological data of digital panoramic radiographs revealing suggestive images of carotid artery calcifications (CAC) from a Northeast Brazilian population. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted with 2,500 digital panoramic radiographs obtained from a single imaging reference center in Northeast Brazil. Images from individuals of both sexes and older than 18 years were included and those that did not cover the region of cervical vertebrae or presented low radiographic quality were excluded. Data were analyzed regarding prevalence, location (bilateral, right or left), sex, and age using the Chi-square test at the significance level of 5%. RESULTS: An amount of 96 (4%) patients presented suggestive images of CAC. The female sex (p=0.003) and individuals aged up to 70 years (p=0.002) were statically significant. 40.4% were found bilaterally, 37.6% on the right side (p<0.001) and 22% on the left side. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, this study showed a low prevalence of suggestive images of CAC in digital panoramic radiographs from a Northeast Brazilian population. It was observed a higher prevalence of CAC associated with female sex, older patients, and right side location.

The prevalence of bifid mandibular condyle detected in a Brazilian population.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of bifid mandibular condyle (BMC) detected on panoramic radiographs in a Brazilian population. METHODS: The panoramic radiographs of 50 080 radiographs taken from 1999 to 2006 were retrospectively reviewed in order to identify BMC cases. RESULTS: 9 (0.018%) of the 50 080 patients, 2 men and 7 women, with age ranging from 20 years to 74 years, had BMC. These conditions were unilateral in 7 (78%) subjects and bilateral in 2 (22%) subjects. All patients denied a history of any previous trauma or fracture of the mandible, pain, or trismus. CONCLUSIONS: BMC is an uncommon finding in a group of Brazilian subjects and, although it is rare, dentists should be aware of this condition on routine panoramic radiographs and its implications for function and appropriate treatment modalities.