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The Retromolar canal (RMC) is an anatomic variation, the identification of which has become a clinical obstacle as the demand for surgical procedures in the retromolar area of the mandible has increased. The inferior alveolar nerve innervates the third molar and some of the muscles around the posterior region of the mandible, making surgical treatments in the retromolar area more challenging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of RMC using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and to evaluate the prevalence, course, and pattern of occurrence of RMC. CBCT images of 160 patients were collected and screened in the three spatial planes on both right and left sides for the presence of RMC. The incidence rates were determined according to gender, location, and type of RMC. Obtained data were subjected to statistical analysis. Out of the 160 subjects examined, 116 (72.5%) subjects presented with RMCs. It was found that 44 out of 72 males (45%) and 72 of 88 (68%) females presented with retromolar canals. Type B was the most common type. Based on the results of this study, retromolar canal should be considered as a normal anatomical variation rather than a rare finding. CBCT is suggested for a detailed evaluation and identification of the course of RMC before any surgical procedures to avoid post-operative complications. Very few studies have been conducted in Indian population and this study analysed the incidence of the RMC using CBCT images of South Indian population.

Introduction: Dental Caries is primarily a disease of multifactorial origin. The streptococcus mutans the causative agent adheres to the tooth surface and breaks down the sugar to produce lactic acid as the by product which brings about demineralisation of tooth structure. There is a need to identify substance which prevents adhesion of the organism to the tooth surface thereby preventing colonisation. Aim: To assess conditioning of the tooth surface with butter prior to subjecting the tooth to demineralisation. Materials and Methods: An in vitro experimental trial was conducted on 45 non carious premolars. The teeth were divided in 3 groups of 15 each. Group I received no pretreatment. The group II and III received thin and thick layer of butter coating, respectively. The teeth were then immersed in demineralising solution and the effect of the of the same was assessed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Since the data obtained was qualitative, any statistical test were not applied. The observations recorded were based on the repetition of the similar findings in more than 50% of the samples. Results: The results of the study indicated the presence of islands of protected enamel and limited destruction in the prismatic pattern on the samples with thin coating of butter. Samples with thick butter coating showed presence of intact prismatic substance in contrast to the unprotected teeth which showed loss of prismatic substance. Conclusion: Pretreatment of the tooth surface with thin coating of butter prior to exposing the tooth to cariogenic environment protects the enamel from undergoing demineralisation.