Análise da posição de localização do forame mentual em adultos

Abstract

The mental foramen (MF) is a stable anatomical landmark at the level of the root apex of the lower teeth into mandible, and the neurovascular branch exits from it. It is very difficult to locate the forame trough clinical exam, however it is clearly seen by imaging exams. The purpose here is to identify the mental foramen relative to lower premolar root by panoramic radiographs. Therefore, the position of MF was observed in 100 panoramic radiographs of adults, such as (I) anterior to the first lower premolar, (II) first lower premolar, (III) between the first and second lower premolars, (IV) second premolar, and (V) posterior to the second lower premolar. The results revealed a higher ocurrence of the MF at the position III (49.5%), followed by the position IV (46%), II (2.5%), V (1.5%), and I (0.5%), with a higher prevalence in bilateral symmetry (79.5%). The prevalence of the positions III (25.31%) and IV (22.78%) was higher in the mandibles with assymmetry (42.85%) of MF location. We concluded that the mandibular regions, such as that the between lower premolars and the second lower premolar, are totally safe to the clinical approach, wether anesthesia for mental nerve block or surgical procedure, reducing the risk of injuries to this nerve. The mandible side is not a relevant feature to determine the MF position.