Abstract
Introduction: Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) offers an accurate and minimal radiation exposure technique in assessing mandibular morphological structures such as lingual concavity during implant planning and placement, which if not adequately taken care of can result in lingual plate perforation and subsequent complications. Aim: The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence and degree of lingual concavities in the first molar region in mandibular arch to decrease chance of lingual cortical bone perforation while placement of dental implants. Methodology: A descriptive, cross sectional study was conducted on 165 CBCT images (86 males & 79 females). Mandibular morphological parameter such as ridge types, ridge width and height, angle between lingual surface and line drawn above the canal were assessed. The prevalence of each ridge typeswas determined. Analysis of variance and chi square tests were employed to detect any significant differences between genders. A p value of lesser than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: A total of 165 scans were evaluated with a mean age of 46.34 +/- 16.55 years. The prevalence of U type mandibular ridge was 58.8%, P type at 24.2% and C type 17%. No significant relation was found in any morphological parameters between genders except Concavity angle. Conclusion: Type U ridge morphology had the highest prevalence. Mandibular lingual concavity must be taken into account during implant placement to prevent accidental perforation of lingual plate. The CBCT provide an accurate assessment of lingual concavities.