The morphological features of the mandibular canal position in relation to the third molars’ roots (a review of literature)

Abstract

A review of foreign and domestic literature is presented on the reliability of radiological signs of corticalization between the roots of the third molars and the mandibular canal on orthoradial panoramic zonography (Rogatskin D. V.) (orthopantomography, panoramic tomography of the dentition), and the presence or absence of “tight” contact of the same anatomical structures on cone – beam computed tomography. The study of the variation in the structure of the mandibular canal and its interaction with the third molars’ roots for a long time met with a serious obstacle due to the complexity of conducting a reliable diagnosis. In practical dentistry, knowing the location of the mandibular canal in relation to the roots of the third molars is very important, since the anatomy can be different: the canal can be located vestibularly, it can be lingual, and it can be covered by the roots of the third molars. In dentistry and maxillofacial surgery, the problems of diagnosing the anatomical and topographic location of the dystopian, retinated, semi-retinated third molars of the lower jaw are very relevant. Today, radiation diagnostics is an important method of examination. This examination can be considered one of the main methods today, since in most cases the final diagnosis is made on the basis of data from X-ray and computer studies. The correct determination of the topographic location of the mandibular canal at the planning stage of dental manipulations allows you to avoid complications both during and after the operation in the area of the third molars on the lower jaw.

Keywords

• mandibular nerve
• third mandibular molar
• cone-beam computed tomography