Three-dimensional assessment of mandibular canal in different sagittal and growth patterns for safe placement of temporary skeletal anchorage devices: A prospective study

Introduction: The primary objective of this study was to assess the 3-dimensional position of the mandibular canal (MC) in different craniofacial patterns to know about the safe placement of temporary skeletal anchorage devices using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). The secondary objectives were to assess sex differences and correlate the MC position with various factors.

Methods: This prospective, observational study was conducted on 90 patients, divided into 3 groups based on the sagittal pattern: skeletal Class I, Class II, and Class III. Similarly, based on the growth pattern of the patients, the sample was divided into 3 groups: horizontal, average, and vertical growth pattern. The skeletal and growth patterns were assessed using lateral cephalograms, and the position of the MC was assessed using CBCT. The position of the MC was assessed in 3 regions: the distal surface of the second molar (region 1), the interdental area between the first and second molars (region 2), and the interdental area between the first molar and second premolar (region 3). Data were subjected to statistical analysis.

Results: The statistically significant differences were noticed in the buccolingual position of MC in regions 2 and 3 in different skeletal patterns, whereas no statistically significant differences were noticed for the superoinferior position. In region 1, the MC was positioned closest to the alveolar crest among vertical growers. No statistically significant sex differences were observed between groups. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between the buccolingual position of the MC and the skeletal pattern.

Conclusions: It is essential to know the 3-dimensional position of the MC in different craniofacial patterns using CBCT for safe placement of temporary skeletal anchorage devices.