Dentistry

Abstract

Anatomical Variations and Biological Effects of Mental Foramen Position in Population of Saudi Arabia

Hassan H Abed, Abdulaziz A Bakhsh, Loai W Hazzazi, Nouran A Alzebiani, Fatma W Nazer, Ibrahim Yamany, Rayyan A Kayal, Dania F Bogari and Turki Y Alhazzazi

Background: Understanding the anatomical variations in the position of the mental foramen is significant for different dental procedures. This study identified the position of the mental foramen among a Saudi population in the western region of Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A total of 950 panoramic radiographs (PAN) were selected from a total of 1195 radiographs. The mental foramen location was determined by drawing imaginary lines parallel with the long access of the lower premolars and mesial root of the first molar on the same side. The mental foramen location was then classified into six classes (Class I-VI).

Results: In the Saudi population, more than half of the mental foramina were located between the lower premolars (Class III, 57.89%), followed by class IV (41.70%) of the mental foramen was located under the second premolar apex. None of the radiographs showed that the mental foramen was located in front of the first premolar (Class I).

Conclusion: For successful and secure mental nerve blocking, the anesthetic solution should be injected between the first and second premolars or under the lower 2nd premolar in the Saudi population. Additionally, caution should be taken when operating close to these areas to avoid mental nerve injury.