Evaluation of position of the mental foramen using panoramic radiograph in north indian population

Introduction: Mental foramen is an important anatomical landmark situated on the antero-lateral aspect of the body of the mandible and transmits mental nerves and vessels. Knowledge regarding the position of the mental foramen is important when administering regional anaesthesia, performing periapical surgery, dental implant surgery and open reduction of the mandible fractures as the mental nerve bundle can be traumatized during surgical procedures resulting in the paresthesia/ anesthesia in the area innervated by the mental nerve. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the position of the mental foramen using panoramic radiograph. Material and method: This study was undertaken using panoramic radiograph of 200 patients who reported to the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The location of the mental foramen was recorded with respect to the longitudinal axis of the mandibular premolar and evaluated on the basis of gender and symmetry. Results: The most common location of the mental foramen was observed between the first and second premolar followed by that in line with the second premolar. Conclusion: It was concluded that since the position of mental foramen is variable hence it should always be assessed radiographically before the surgical procedure so as to reduce unwanted surgical sequel.