Morphometric Evaluation of Mental Foramen of Dry Adult Human Mandibles of South Indian Population and Their Clinical Correlation

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Morphometric assessment of mental foramina (MF) of the mandible for its variable position is considered to be helpful for the surgeons and dentists for the localized surgical procedures and for the anesthetists to execute nerve block practices. Hence the objective of the present study is to establish the morphometric variability in the position of MF in terms of gender in the mandibles of Southern Indian origin with possible clinical implications. Methods: The shape, size, and location of MF were measured on both sides of the mandible (n=92). Location of MF was established by measuring the distance from MF to the [1] mental symphysis [2] alveolar crest, [3] the base of the mandible, and [4] posterior border of the ramus of the mandible. All the morphometric data were analyzed statistically with a significance level of p<0.05. Results: The higher incidence (58.7%) of rounded MF was recorded. There were no cases of MF anterior to the first pre-molar and below the 1st molar. Most of them (45.7%) were below the 2nd premolar. There was a significant association between gender and the position of the MF (p=0.011). But, no association between gender and side as well as the shape was noted. Significant associations were found between gender and the distance from mental foramen to the posterior border of the ramus and also to the alveolar crest. A significant association between the gender and the positions of the MF was noted. Conclusion: The variations observed from previous studies might be related to the feeding habits of different regions which may ultimately, affect the development of mandibles. Prior knowledge regarding the common positions of MF in local populations is helpful in effective nerve blocks and maxillofacial surgeries.