Radiographic Assessment of the Relationship between Lower Third Molar and the Inferior Alveolar Canal
Many complications have been reported following the removal of lower third molars. Inferior alveolar nerve injury is one of those, and symptoms may range from temporary sensory alterations to paresthesia. To prevent this damage, pre-operative localization of the inferior alveolar nerve is necessary, and a radiographic examination is known as a modality to reveal how close of the inferior alveolar canal to the root of the lower third molar impaction. Various radiographic techniques have been applied for investigation. This article reviews radiographic features of the inferior alveolar canal and the use of panoramic and tomography in assessing the relationship between the inferior alveolar canal and the roots of third molars. Prescription of radiographic techniques in clinical use is also discussed.
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