Prevalence, Location, and Variations of the Posterior Superior Alveolar Canal With Age and Gender in the Indian Population: A Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)-Based Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Enhancing the availability of bone in the vertical dimension for implant insertion is thought to be possible through implant site preparation using direct or indirect sinus lift. The posterior superior alveolar (PSA) canal is extremely vulnerable to trauma during this procedure. The anatomy of this region should be thoroughly evaluated to prevent traumatizing this artery and eventual perioperative bleeding. Due to a lack of relevant knowledge and the clinical importance of this problem, the position, diameter, detectability, and proximity of this canal to the alveolar ridge were assessed on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans which were the main objectives of this study. METHODOLOGY: A total of 240 CBCT scans were examined, and the position of the PSA canal, its diameter, the perpendicular distance from the inferior border of the PSA canal to the alveolar crest, and the perpendicular distance from the inferior border of the canal to the maxillary sinus floor was measured. RESULTS: Intraosseous PSA canals were the most prevalent, followed by intrasinusal and extraosseous canals. Males had larger canal diameters and greater distances between the maxillary sinus floor and alveolar crest and the canal (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: CBCT was proven to be a useful method for assessing and localizing the PSA artery to prevent intraoperative bleeding and further complications.

Severe Chronic Gingivitis in Association With Hypothyroidism and Grade 2 Adenoid Hypertrophy: A Case Report.

Hypothyroidism is the second-commonest endocrine disorder in the world. Similarly, gingivitis is also a highly prevalent oral condition in every population globally. Adenoid hypertrophy and associated mouth breathing may aggravate preexisting gingival inflammation. Here, we are presenting the case of a 22-year-old female gingivitis patient with bleeding from gums on the slightest provocation and with a two-year history of preexisting hypothyroidism. Thorough systemic examinations and investigations ruled out the presence of hematological and/or coagulation disorders. However, she was found to have grade 2 adenoid hypertrophy along with a habit of mouth breathing. Periodontal and systemic management of the patient has resolved her gingival bleeding to a greater extent. Still, there remain a lot of ambiguity and a lack of clarity about the exact etiology and mechanism of pathogenesis behind her oral and general health status. Cases like these pose a diagnostic challenge for the treating dentist or periodontist and thus require a coordinated and collaborative effort of multiple health specialties.