CBCT ANALYSIS OF MANDIBULAR FIRST AND SECOND MOLAR ROOT APEX PROXIMITY TO THE MANDIBULAR CANAL IN A PAKISTANI POPULATION

Abstract

College (Aug 2024–Feb 2025), evaluated the mean proximity of mandibular first and second molar root apices to the mandibular canal in 120 Pakistani participants using CBCT. Scans were acquired with standardized settings, and measurements were analyzed via specialized software. Results showed mean distances of 5.43 ± 1.41 mm for first molars and 4.13 ± 1.19 mm for second molars, with males exhibiting greater distances for second molars than females (3.86 mm vs. 4.30 mm). The difference between first and second molar distances was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Findings indicate that second molar roots lie closer to the mandibular canal, especially in females, posing a higher risk of nerve injury. Age had no significant effect. CBCT is crucial for preoperative planning to reduce nerve damage risks during dental procedures.