Prevalence of Nutrient Canals in Mandibular Anterior Periapical Radiographs and Their Relationship with Chronic Systemic Diseases and Periodontitis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18051259Keywords:
Nutrient Canal , Mandibular Anterior , Periapical Radiography, Systemic DiseasesAbstract
Aim: Nutrient canals are anatomical pathways within the jawbone containing small blood vessels and nerves that provide essential nutrients and oxygen to the bone. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of nutrient canals in mandibular anterior periapical radiographs and to assess their possible association with chronic systemic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and periodontitis. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted between July 2023 and August 2025 at the Faculty of Dentistry, Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University and included 105 patients with diabetes, hypertension, or periodontitis, as well as 35 healthy controls. The presence and number of nutrient canals were assessed on periapical radiographs of the mandibular anterior region. Results: The study found that nutrient canals were present in over half of the participants. Their occurrence was notably more common among individuals with diabetes, hypertension, and periodontitis compared to those without any systemic condition.(p:0,003)There was no meaningful difference between women and men(p:0,89), while the middle-aged group showed the highest frequency of these canals.(p:0,025) Conclusion: The increased presence of nutrient canals in individuals with diabetes, hypertension, and periodontitis suggests a potential link between these systemic diseases and jawbone microvascular changes. Detection of nutrient canals on periapical radiographs may aid in identifying early signs of undiagnosed systemic conditions.
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