Year : 2018

Volume : Volume 8

Issue : Issue 2

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Niharika S Rathore.
niharikaratnaut@gmail.com

Abstract

Aim:  This was conducted to visualize lingual foramen using CBCT. Material & Method: A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 100 patients who attended the department for various imaging purposes.  The examinations were taken using the carestream 9300 machine CBCT unit, applying a standardized exposure protocol. Image reconstruction from the raw data was performed using the  CS 3D imaging software.  Result: We studies 100 scans out of which in 92 lingual foramen was visible. Conclusion: Lingual foramen transmits neurovascular bundles to surrounding structures, hence any damage to the lingual foramen during surgical procedures can result in haemorrhage and/or neurosensory disturbances. It is therefore beneficial for the dentist to be aware of the structures present in the anterior mandible when considering any surgical procedures or implant planning. Hence, CBCT plays an important role during implant planning and surgical procedures in dentistry.

Keywords: Lingual foramen, CBCT, neurovascular bundle.