Anatomy of the Mental Foramen: Relationship among Different Metrical Parameters for Accurate Localization

Abstract

Featured Application: The anatomical position of the mental foramen, as visualized on CBCT scans, has several potential applications in various fields. Its precise location can be useful for Dental Implant Placement, as implants need to be positioned carefully to avoid damaging important structures like nerves and blood vessels. Anatomical details of the mental foramen help in determining the appropriate implant length and angulation, reducing the risk of complications. The mental foramen is the exit point of the mental nerve. By identifying the mental foramen’s position, dental professionals can avoid damaging the nerve during certain procedures, such as extractions or surgical interventions. Other applications include local anesthesia, endodontic and orthodontic treatments and maxillofacial surgeries involving the anterior mandible. Purpose: The mental foramen (MF) is important in dental surgery procedures for preventing possible iatrogenic lesions and for anesthetic procedures. This paper aims at expanding knowledge on the metrical characteristics that are useful for the correct anatomical assessment of the MF. Materials and Methods: On 100 CBCT scans (50 males and 50 females), height, width, depth, linear distance from the inferior and superior mandibular edge and position according to teeth and dental apices were analyzed. Differences according to sex and the side for each metrical measurement and for teeth and dental apices were assessed through a two-way ANOVA test and Chi-square test, respectively. Pearson’s test and a one-way ANOVA test were used to test correlations among the chosen parameters (p < 0.01). Results: The depth and distance from the inferior and superior mandibular edges showed sexual dimorphism (p < 0.01). Height and width were positively related, as well as depth and distance from the inferior mandibular edge in females (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Novel data about the anatomical position of the mental foramen are described, which are useful for the management of surgical procedures.