Prevalence and Length of the Mental Nerve Loop in an Indian Population Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to assess the prevalence and length of the mental nerve loop in a local Indian population using CBCT, providing essential data to guide safe surgical procedures in the interforaminal region. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 70 CBCT scans selected from a pool of 450 scans obtained between January 2024 and December 2024 from the Department of Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge at Adhiparasakthi Dental College and Hospital, Melmaruvathur, India. The CBCT images were evaluated using Bluesky Plan Software Version 4.13 to identify the presence and measure the length of the mental nerve loop. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. Results: The mental nerve loop was identified in 24.3% of the study population, with a higher prevalence on the left side (18.6%) than on the right (11.4%). The mean length of the anterior nerve loop was 1.90±0.731 on the left side and 1.66±0.434 on the right side, with notable variations between sexes. Only 5 participants exhibited bilateral nerve loops. Conclusion: The study highlights the variation in mental nerve loop prevalence, emphasizing the necessity of preoperative CBCT evaluation for implant planning and surgical procedures in the mandibular region. Given the potential for nerve injury, clinicians should consider these findings to optimize patient safety and treatment outcomes. Further research with a larger sample size is recommended to strengthen these findings