Evaluation of Inferior Alveolar Nerve Position using Cone Beam CT

Abstract

The introduction of foreign material placed near or into the inferior alveolar nerve during implant placement or root canal therapy can result in altered nerve sensation (paresthesia) or continual pain (dysesthesia). The inferior alveolar nerve is housed in the mandibular canal of the lower jaw (mandible) providing innervations to the lower teeth, and is sensitive to changes in the enviroment. The aim of our study is to measure the distance between the inferior alveolar nerve and the apical root/s of the second premolar, first molar and second molar, and compare the results amongst three age groups: young, middle-age, and older patients. Distances were measured using cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) radiographs. Cross-sectional images allow visualization of a third dimension, thus providing a more accurate measurement than a two-dimensional radiograph. This data will help dentists avoid surgical complications and better prepare for dental procedures.