Assessment of Anatomical Variations in the Anterior Loop of the Mental Nerve in the Northeast Population to Estimate a Safe Zone for Implant Prosthesis: An Institution-Based Study.

BACKGROUND

The precise location of the anterior loop is of utmost importance during implant surgery to avoid any postoperative complications. The aim of the institution-based study was to determine the prevalence of the anterior loop with respect to age and gender in the northeast population.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Sixty outpatients opting for implant prostheses in the interforaminal region of the mandible were enrolled in this study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

The anterior loop was identified in 18.3% of the total subjects, and the mean length of the anterior loop was found to be 3.37 ± 0.53 mm. Planning for prosthetic-driven the implant placement was possible in 54.5% of the subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Proper treatment planning using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) with a radiographic stent is paramount important for the safe placement of implant in the presence of the anterior loop of the mental nerve.