Masters of Clinical Anatomy Projects
Document Type
Report
Publication Date
2016
Journal
Masters of Clinical Anatomy Projects
Abstract
Dental implants are commonly used to replace missing teeth in the anterior mandible. This area is vascularized by the sublingual artery, which can be damaged during the implant procedure. This investigation aims to determine the variation in the sublingual artery and its relevant lingual foramina, such that it can be avoided by dental surgeons in the future. Dry mandibles (n=43) were acquired and the distance from the internal superior border of the mandible to the lingual foramen was measured and compared to the total height of the anterior mandible. 67% of foramina were found at a distance greater than 50% below the internal superior border of the mandible, and there was a significant difference in the number of foramina on the left half of the anterointerior mandible (2.3 ± 1.1) compared to the right half (1.4 ± 1.1) (P=0.021). These results imply increased vascularization in the lower half of the anterior mandible as well as on the left half of the same area. Dental surgeons should take extra care when working in these areas in order to minimize risk of sublingual hemorrhaging