Analysis of accessory canals as important anatomical structures in the anterior maxilla with cone beam computed tomography

The aim of this study is to analyze the diameter and localization of terminal part CS to prevent its damage during implant placement in the anterior maxilla. 150 CBCT scans of 61 males and 89 females in the age span of 24 to 80 years using 8 x 8 field of view. were analyzed in Ez3D2009 (Vatech) software on panoramic and cross-sectional views with 0.5mm, 1mm, 3 mm and 10 mm slice thickness. The CS visualization was graded with the four-point rating scale and the localization was distributed according to Oliveira-Santos. Evaluating CBCT scans with 0.5 mm slice thickness the alveolar process part of CS was evident in 101 of 150 patients (67% of total patients). 22 of these 101 patients (21.7%) presented with CS on the right side, 32 (31.6%) patients on the left side and 47 (46.7%) patients on both sides. Most frequently CS was localized in the lateral incisor region (33.5%, n=50). Analyzing CBCT scans with 0.5 mm and 1 mm slice thickness on both sides CS was visualized in 49%, with 3 mm slice thickness in 40% and with 10 mm slice thickness in 18%. Mean diameter and length of terminal part CS were 0,95 ± 0,24 and 11,78 ± 3,32 consequently. CS was located palatally in 76% (n=113), centrally in 12% (n=18) and buccally in 12% (n=18). It is important to plan dental implant placement with CBCT and by not neglecting the use of surgical guides. © 2020 University of Dicle.