Incidence and classification of bifid mandibular canals using cone beam computed tomography

Aim: To determine the prevalence and classification of bifid mandibular canals using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: The sample comprised 300 CBCT scans obtained from the Radiology and Imaging Department database at São Leopoldo Mandic Dental School, Campinas, SP, Brazil. All images were performed on Classic I-Cat® CBCT scanner, with standardized voxel at 0.25 mm and 13 cm FOV (field of view). From an axial slice (0.25 mm) a guiding plane was drawn along the alveolar ridge in order to obtain a cross-section. Results: Among 300 patients, 188 (62.7%) were female and 112 (37.3%) were male, aged between 13 to 87 years. Changes in the mandibular canal were observed in 90 patients, 30.0% of the sample, 51 women (56.7%) and 39 men (43.3%). Regarding affected sides, 32.2% were on the right and 24.5% on the left, with 43.3% bilateral cases. Conclusions: According to the results obtained in this study, a prevalence of 30% of bifid mandibular canals was found, with the most prevalent types classified as B (mesial direction) and bilateral.

Evaluation of hemosponge in promoting dental socket healing after 3rd mandibular premolar extraction in a feline model

Aim: To investigate the healing process following use of collagen sponges in the dental socket after extraction. Wound complications during the study were also evaluated. Methods: 32 cats were included in this study. IV administration of the combination of diazepam (0.22 mg/kg) and ketamine (10 mg/kg) was used to induce general anesthesia. Surgical extraction of both 3rd mandibular premolars was performed. The open dental sockets were divided in two groups. In Group A, the open dental socket on the left side was closed using 4-0 Monocryl in simple interrupted pattern. In Group B, the right dental socket was filled with lyophilized hydrolyzed collagen and the buccal and lingual flaps were sutured using 4-0 Monocryl and simple interrupted pattern. Meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg) was used to manage the post-extraction pain in all cats. Ampicilline 20 mg/kg was used as prophylaxis. The wounds were observed during the study to evaluate any signs of inflammation or dehiscence. Radiographs were taken to compare healing of the socket 3 weeks after the procedure. A 1 mm biopsy punch sample was taken from sockets in all cats for comparison of the healing in both groups. Results: Hemorrhage occurred only in the sockets of Group A. Remission of radiolucent area occurred in both groups. Mean score of inflammation was lower and mean scores of fibrotic reaction and fibroplasia were higher in Group B (p<0.05). Conclusions: Use of hemosponge in alveolar socket may accelerate fibroplasia and formation of the connective tissue and reduce inflammation after tooth extraction. Therefore, post-extraction use of the hemostatic agent in the dental socket is recommended.