Aim: To assess the accuracy of panoramic radiography and spiral or computed tomography for the localisation of the mental foramen. Materials and methods: The distance from the alveolar crest to the mental foramen was measured from panoramic radiographs, spiral tomograms and CT scans. The same distance was measured during implant surgery using a specially designed caliper. Results: Panoramic radiography showed more deviation (+0.6 mm) from the perioperative measurements than either spiral or computed tomography (+0.4 and 70.3 mm respectively). The dierence was signi®cant (P50.05). In general, distances were overestimated on the panoramic radiographs. Conclusions: Cross-sectional imaging techniques are recommended for the pre-operative planning of implants in the posterior mandible.
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