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Objectives: To evaluate the relationship of the first and second mandibular molar roots to the inferior alveolar canal (IAC) and cortical plates using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the Saudi population. Methods: Scans of 60 patients were collected retrospectively from the dental hospital database in King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Measurements of the right and left first and second mandibular molars for each dental root and the mandibular bone thickness were determined. The position of the IAC was estimated using axial, coronal, and sagittal views. Three examiners performed the measurements independently. Results: The mean distance between the root apices of the mandibular molars and the IAC ranged from 1.68-4.79 mm, whereas the mean distance from the outer surface of the buccal cortical plate to the buccal root surface ranged from 2.33-6.72 mm. Similarly, the mean distance from the outer surface of the lingual cortical plate to the lingual root surface ranged from 2.62-4.80 mm. Finally, the mean distance from the outer surface of the lingual cortical plate to the outer surface of the buccal cortical plate was 11.93-13.19 mm. Conclusion: The measurements reported in this study may be of value to practitioners treating Saudi patients, as they need to be familiar with the distance of the mandibular first and second molars in relation to the IAC and surrounding cortical plates to accurately assess and plan endodontic surgeries, surgical extractions, and implant placements.

Objectives: To evaluate the horizontal and vertical location of the mental foramen (MF), as well as the relationship of lower premolars to buccal and lingual cortical plates using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study conducted using CBCT scans that were obtained between early 2014 and late 2016 from King Saud University Dental hospital database in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 94 patients (53 males and 41 females) were included. Three examiners independently performed one-sided measurements for each patient. Data analyzed statistically and a p <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean distances from the outer boundary of the buccal cortex to the first and second premolars (R1) were 1.55 mm and 1.98 mm. The mean distances from the outer boundary of the lingual cortical plate to the first and second premolars (R2) were 4.06 mm and 4.73 mm. The respective mean total bone thicknesses, including the roots of the first and second premolars (R3), were 9.32 mm and 10.08 mm. The mean distance between the MF and the mandibular second premolar apex was 3.13 mm. Conclusion: Mandibular premolars are in close proximity to MF especially mandibular second premolar. Presurgical assessment is essential when surgical treatment is planned at this area.

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