Radiographic evaluation of the incisive foramen position by Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in edentulous anterior maxilla regions and its relationship to dental implant placement of incisor teeth

Background: The implants with increasing dental implant placement of missing teeth haves already paid attention for its success and popularity of this treatment. However, dental implant placement in the anterior maxilla region regarding anatomic and beauty is limited. One of the main factors is structure limitations in incisive foramen area. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the position of the incisive foramen by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and its relation to dental implant placement of incisor teeth. Methods: This case-series study consisted of 64 women and 36 men. CBCT images for edentulous anterior maxilla were conducted by using a limited field of view (FOV) of 4*5. Reformatted sagittal and coronal slices were analyzed for dimensions of the incisive foramen, the incisive canal, and buccal bone wall. There were nine parameters measured regarding incisive foramen including the incisive canal length and buccal bone width (millimeters, [mm]). Results: The mean length of the incisive canal was 7.905±2.201 mm, width of incisive foramen (coronal view) 3.094±0.922 mm and 2.818±0.828 mm (sagittal view). The mean volume and length of the incisive canal were greater and significant (p 0.001) in men than women. However, the mean width of the incisive foramen, Stenson foramen, and incisive foramen distances to alveolar bone crest was greater and significant (p=0.001) in women than men. Conclusion: The width of the incisive foramen in 58% edentulous patients was more than 2.5 mm. In such cases, authors recommend replacing lateral incisors with dental implants instead of central incisors when possible.