CBCT evaluation of anterior loop length and mental foramen position in Vietnamese Population (CBCT Evaluation of Anterior Loop Length)

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and length of anterior loop, and determine the accurate position of the mental foramen in Vietnamese population. Material and Methods: One hundred and twelve CBCT scans taken within July 2017 until February 2020 were used in this study. All images were evaluated using OsiriX DICOM Viewer. The loop length on both side of the mandible was assessed using oblique transverse method by one examiner based on a standardized procedure. The data collected were analyzed using SPSS ver.26.0. Results: The prevalence of the loop was 92.9% of the sample. The mean of anterior loop length was 1.72 ± 1.00mm. There was no significant difference between genders or sides of the mandible. The most common position of the mental foramen was in line with the axis of the second premolar and below the apices of the premolars. Conclusion: Cautions should be taken when placing implant in proximity to the mental foramen as anterior loop is present in most of the case. Based on this study, it is considered safer to place implant 5mm anterior to the mental foramen for Vietnamese population.