The evaluation of mandibular anatomical structures by retrospective cone beam computed tomography in children by gender and age

Aim In this study, by using conical beam computed tomography images in individuals aged 7-18 years according to gender and age; was carried out retrospectively in order to obtain more detailed data about mandibular canal, mental and mandibular foramen localization differences and to guide the dentistry applications such as endodontic treatment, surgical procedures, dental anesthesia and prevent complications. Material and method In our study, tomography images of 120 individuals in accordance with the research criteria were divided into 6 groups according to age and measurements were carried out in 240 hemi-mandibula.An equal distribution of patients was made according to gender in each group. Measurements of mandibular foramen, mental foramen and mandibular canal localization were evaluated on 3D volumetric images obtained by CBCT and RadiAnt DICOM Viewer program.While analyzing the differences between the groups, Mann Whitney U test was used in groups of two, and Kruskal Wallis-H and Post-Hoc Multiple Comparison facilities were used in more than two groups. Results Statistically significant differences were found between gender and age groups in many parameters related to mandibular foramen, mental foramen and mandibular canal localization (p<0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between the sex and age groups in the measurement of mandibular canal diameter (p>0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between the right and left sides of the individual in all measurements (p>0.05). When the measurement values related to the localization of anatomical points of boys and girls in the same group were compared, significant differences were found between the genders in many parameters. Conclusion In our study, the average values of the measured anatomical points were determined; we think that these values can be a guide in pediatric and general dentistry practices. We think that the localization of anatomic points in terms of sexual dimorphism should be examined in different sections and in a larger sample group.