Evaluation of the appearence of mandibular incisive canal by panoramic radiographs

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the visibility of mandibular incisive canal in the mental interforaminal region on panoramic radiographs.
Materials and Methods: 1000 panoramic radiographs of the patients were obtained retrospectively from the archieved records of our radiology department.The images were evaluated by a single radiologist and the presence of mandibular incisive canal were recorded.
Results: Mandibular incisive canal was observed in 180 radiographs at least one side and account for 18%. Bilateral mandibular incisive canals were observed more frequent (61,1%).
Conclusions: The presence of mandibular incisive canal is not a rare finding and should be considered in surgical planning involving the anterior mandible so as to prevent complications.