MERVE ÇAKIR MELTEM KARAMAN
Aydın Dental Journal - 2023;9(3):11-20
Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the compatibility of radiological markers of the impacted lower third molar (LTM) relationship to inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in panoramic radiographs (PR) with cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) images. Materials and Methods: PR and CBCT images of the patients who were referred for LTM removal between September-December 2021 were used. LTM were classified according to the Pederson Difficulty Index in PR. If relation between the teeth and IAN was detected, then CBCT images were investigated to verify the relation. Results: 52 LTM were included to the study because of having CBCT images. According to Pederson Index 14 teeth were classified as very difficult, 38 as moderately difficult. In PR examination a relationship with the IAN was observed in 44 teeth. When the CBCT images of 44 teeth were examined, 7 of these showed no relationship. On the other hand, when the CBCT images of the 8 teeth, which were classified as ’no relationship’ in PR images, were examined, it was determined that 4 of them had relationship. Thus, 41 of the 52 teeth were related to the IAN. The CBCT images of 41 of the 52 teeth confirmed for the proximity of the IAN, 14 of them were classified as very difficult, 27 of them were classified as moderately difficult. Conclusion: These findings indicate that if IAN-LTM relation is suspicious according to PR and teeth classified as difficult or very difficult according to Pederson’s Index, CBCT is necessary before the surgery.
