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Background: In complex teeth like maxillary premolars, endodontic treatment success depends on a complete comprehension of root canal anatomy. The research on mandibular premolars' root canal anatomy has been extensive and well-documented in existing literature. However, there appears to be a notable gap in available data concerning the root canal anatomy of maxillary premolars. This study aimed to explore the root canal morphology of maxillary premolars using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging, considering age and gender variations. Methods: From 500 patient CBCT scans, 787 maxillary premolar teeth were evaluated. The sample was divided by gender and age (10–20, 21–30, 31–40, 41–50, 51–60, and 61 years and older). Ahmed et al. classification system was used to record root canal morphology. Results: The most frequent classifications for right maxillary 1st premolars were 2MPM1 B1 L1 (39.03%) and 1MPM1 (2.81%), while the most frequent classifications for right maxillary 2nd premolars were 2MPM1 B1 L1 (39.08%) and 1MPM1 (17.85%). Most of the premolars typically had two roots (left maxillary first premolars: 81.5%, left maxillary second premolars: 82.7%, right maxillary first premolars: 74.4%, right maxillary second premolars: 75.7%). Left and right maxillary 1st premolars for classes 1MPM1 and 1MPM1–2−1 showed significant gender differences. For classifications 1MPM1 and 1MPM1–2−1, age-related changes were seen in the left and right maxillary first premolars. Conclusion: This study provides novel insights into the root canal anatomy of maxillary premolars within the Saudi population, addressing a notable gap in the literature specific to this demographic. Through CBCT imaging and analysis of large sample sizes, the complex and diverse nature of root canal morphology in these teeth among Saudi individuals is elucidated. The findings underscore the importance of CBCT imaging in precise treatment planning and decision-making tailored to the Saudi population. Consideration of age and gender-related variations further enhances understanding and aids in personalized endodontic interventions within this demographic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) could be more beneficial in clinical situations that involve the determination of root canal morphology. AIM: The aim of the study was to ascertain the prevalence of radix molaris (paramolaris-RP and entomolaris-RE) in a subpopulation of Saudi Arabia using CBCT. METHOD: A total of 700 CBCT scans of mandibular permanent first molars were included in this study. All CBCT scans were interpreted by two trained dentists and an endodontist. Mandibular permanent first molars with fully developed roots and closed apices were only included. Computed Tomography scans were obtained from the dental college record. The anatomic characteristics which were checked included: the prevalence of radix molaris in both RE and RP and the prevalence of radix molaris according to the patient's gender and age. All CBCT images were processed and reconstructed using OnDemand3D TM imaging software. RESULTS: Of the 700 patients included, 651 (93.0%) did not have radix molaris, 46 (6.6%) had radix entomolaris and 3 (0.4%) had radix paramolaris in the study group. There was no statistically significant difference between the genders and age in the incidence of RE and RP (P -value < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The study showed that RE prevalence is more compared to RP in the first lower molars in the population studied. It is important to identify extra roots and associated canals to perform successful root canal treatment and avoid failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to look at the variations in chest computed tomography (CT) use, radiation dose and image quality in the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pneumonia patients in Saudi Arabia. This is a retrospective study of 402 patients with COVID-19, who were treated between February and October 2021. Radiation dose was estimated using metrics of volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE). The imaging performance of the CT scanners was evaluated by measuring different parameters, such as resolution and CT number uniformity, with an ACR-CT accreditation phantom. Expert radiologists assessed the diagnostic quality and occurrence of artefacts. For all of the image quality parameters tested, the majority of the scanner sites (80%) were found to be within the suggested acceptance limits. Ground-glass opacities were the most common finding in our patient sample (54%). On chest CT exams with typical appearance of COVID-19 pneumonia, the most respiratory motion artefacts (56.3%) were present, followed by those with indeterminate appearance (32.2%). There were significant differences in CT utilization, CTDIvol and SSDE across the collaborated sites. The use of CT scans and radiation doses varied in the COVID-19 patients, highlighting the optimizations of CT protocols at participating sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Labial alveolar bone thickness in the maxillary anterior region is the key factor in the placement of implants. Differences in the thickness of the bone are reported among different ethnic groups. Thus, the present study was aimed at assessing labial alveolar bone thickness in the maxillary anterior region in the population of the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: The six anterior teeth in each of the 186 CBCT sagittal images were analyzed at three points: Point A from the facial plate at the level of the bone crest to the coronal root third, Point B to the mid-root surface, and Point C to the apical third. Crest height (Point D) was measured as the distance from the CEJ to the alveolar bone crest. The analysis was done using SPSS version 20. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The bone thickness at any given point (Point A, Point B, or Point C) was less than the preferred bone thickness of 2 mm in all six teeth. The thickness was minimum at Point B, maximum at Point C, and intermediate at Point A. This difference was found to be statistically significant (p-value < 0.05). The crestal height (Point D) was less than 3 mm, and it was not statistically significant. Comparison of bone thickness on the right and left sides for any given point was not statistically significant except at Point A in the central incisor, where it was statistically significant (p-value = 0.035). Gender comparison of bone thickness showed no difference at Point A; however, at Points B and C, it showed statistical significance (p-value < 0.05). Conclusions: The alveolar bone thickness being <2 mm in the labial anterior region warns of the importance of the proper assessment of bone during implant placement to have a predictable outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Third molar teeth have the highest incidence among all impacted teeth in oral cavity. This study is to evaluate Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for the Status of maxillary and mandibular third molar position based on winter, Pell & Gregory classification systems. In addition, association of mandibular third molar with the inferior alveolar nerve(IAN). Third molar teeth have the highest incidence among all impacted teeth in oral cavity. This study is to evaluate Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for the Status of maxillary and mandibular third molar position based on winter, Pell & Gregory classification systems. In addition, association of mandibular third molar with the inferior alveolar nerve(IAN). Among 500 individuals, 285 were male and 215 were female patients. Of the 500 CBCT images evaluated, 431 third molars were noticed impacted, 794 erupted and 775 third molars were missing. The most common angulation of impaction in the mandible was mesioangular position 55.5% followed by vertical impaction 22.4% and the most common angulation of impaction in the maxilla was the vertical 80.8% followed by mesioangular impaction 9.6%. The level of eruption of mandibular third molar was found to be 118 (46.5%) at position A, 60 (23.6%) at position B and 76(29.9%) at position C. Association of mandibular third molars with inferior alveolar nerve was found in 29.53% of teeth. The level of eruption of maxillary third molars found to be 6(3.4%) teeth with position A, 20(11.3%) teeth were in position B followed by 151(85.3%) teeth in position C. The status of third molar in the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia within the study sample was characterized by 21.6% impactions which were more commonly in the mandible. The most common angulation was mesioangular in the mandible, vertical in the maxilla. The most common level of impaction in mandible was position A and Position C was the most common in maxilla. 29.53% of mandibular third molars associated with inferior alveolar nerve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic search was conducted to explore the literature on the existing diagnostic reference level (DRL) of radiographic and computed tomography (CT) examinations in Saudi Arabia. The search was performed using Web of Science, Scopus and EBSCO. The search identified 19 studies that reported DRL values for radiographic and CT examinations in Saudi Arabia. Six of those studies reported DRL values for projection radiography, and the remaining studies reported DRL values for CT examinations (n  = 13). The entrance surface dose, volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) and dose-length product (DLP) were the most common methods used for establishing the DRLs. Variations were observed in the Saudi DRL values, and this is consistent with the DRL values reported in the literature. Educating and training radiographers to better understand dose minimizing techniques may result in lower patient doses and lower variances in DRL values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cranial base has a crucial effect on the position of the maxilla and mandible. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the cranial base sagittal and transverse dimensions in different skeletal patterns. This is a retrospective study of pre-existing CBCT images of 132 subjects (60 males and 72 females) from Saudi Arabia with a mean age of 35 years old. The grouping of the subjects was based on the ANB angle of Steiner's analysis. One-way ANOVA was used to compare the means of the sagittal and transverse dimensions between different skeletal patterns, followed by a post hoc test for individual comparisons. Logistic regression analysis was performed to test the relationship between gender, age, and cephalometric values between the three groups. The significance level was 0.05. One-way ANOVA revealed a statistically significant difference in posterior cranial base length (p < 0.05) and total cranial base length (p < 0.05) among different skeletal patterns. Tukey's post hoc analysis showed that skeletal class II had a smaller posterior cranial base and total cranial base length when compared to the other groups. The class II skeletal pattern has a smaller posterior cranial base and total cranial base when compared to skeletal class I and class III skeletal patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Size-specific dose estimate (SSDE), which can be calculated by measuring the effective diameter (D e) or water equivalent diameter (D w) of the patient, is one of the recent approaches for verifying the individual doses during computer tomography (CT) examinations. This work aimed to compare the D w estimated by the AutoWED tool and IndoseCT software and to investigate CT axial (ARH) and paediatric head (PH) protocols used in southern Saudi Arabia to calculate the dose received by paediatric patients using metrics of volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) and SSDE. The distribution between the ARH and PH protocols was 57.8 and 42.2%, respectively. There was no significant difference in D w values between the AutoWED tool and the IndoseCT program (0.13%). Including CT table or other objects during estimation of D w can lead to variation up to 11.4%. The impact of selecting IndoseCT options to identify the border of the patient may be part of the explanation for these variations. A strong linear relationship was obtained between D e and D w in paediatric head size (R 2 = 0.96). Using IndoseCT, for 0–1.5, 1.5–5 and 5.0–18 age groups (years), the D w was found to be 13.2, 15.3 and 16.8 cm, respectively. The SSDE for the PH protocol was substantially lower than that of the ARH protocol. As a result, education of the individuals engaging in paediatric CT examinations is necessary for dose optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate knowledge of root canal morphology along with its probable variations is imperative to acquire successful endodontic treatment. This retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the root canal configuration of maxillary and mandibular first molar using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) among patients in Al-Ahsa region, Saudi Arabia. A total of 377 samples were included, out of which 123 CBCT (I-CAT Vision QTM) scans with intact all first permanent molars were selected in this study and scanned in sagittal, axial, and coronal views by using BlueSkyPlan software. The number of canals in each root and their configuration according to the Vertucci classification system was evaluated. Statistical analysis was analyzed using SPSS version 21 (IBM). Chi-square test was applied to evaluate the association of root canal morphology and mandibular and maxillary first molars with respect to gender. Out of 123 CBCT scans, 59 (48.0%) were males and 64 (52.0%) were females; the mean age was 26.95 ± 10.65 years. The mesiobuccal root of bilateral maxillary first molar had Type-I (87.0%) of Vertucci classification followed by Type-IV (9.8%). Additionally, all mesiobuccal roots (100%) of the left mandibular first molar had Type-I of Vertucci's classification. A significant association has been observed between gender and a number of canals in bilateral maxillary first molars. Females showed a significantly higher prevalence of three-root canal configuration in maxillary first molars of both sides compared four canals found most commonly in males (p = 0.004). This study concluded that the majority of maxillary and mandibular permanent first molars had three roots and three canals with Type-I Vertucci's classification in patients belonging to the Al-Ahsa region of the Saudi Arabia. It was also proved that gender is significantly associated with the number of canals in a bilateral maxillary molar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Because of the close contact between maxillary sinus and maxillary posterior teeth, procedural errors such as perforation of the sinus may occur during surgical intervention resulting in oroantral communication, which if not corrected, would develop into a fistula. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between maxillary posterior teeth and maxillary sinus floor in a population of the western area of Saudi Arabia, and if age, gender, and size may affect such distance. Materials and Methods. This retrospective study evaluated 539 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiographs of patients over 20 years of age. Patients were divided into four groups according to age: group I (20–30 years), group II (31–40 years), group III (41–50 years), and group IV (more than 50 years). From coronal and sagittal images of CBCT, the vertical distance between the posterior maxillary root and the maxillary sinus was measured and classified according to its proximity to the maxillary sinus. Results. Gender and size did not significantly affect the distance between maxillary posterior root and maxillary sinus. However, there was a significant increase in this distance with increased age. Mesiobuccal root of the second molar was the nearest root to the maxillary sinus (0.8 ± 1.62, p < 0.001), while the buccal root of the first premolar was the farthest root (5.39 ± 3.26, p < 0.001). Conclusion. Regarding the population of this study, the buccal roots of the second molars are the closest to the sinus floor. Complications associated with maxillary molar extraction and implantation are greater at a younger age. Because the distance between posterior maxillary teeth and maxillary sinus was mostly type 1 (0–2 mm), clinicians are advised to perform CBCT to get a better understanding of the relationship between maxillary posterior roots and maxillary sinus before surgical intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Identification of sex of unknown people becomes important in situations of mass disaster. Previous studies have shown that morphological characteristic of frontal sinus is distinctive to particular individual and hence, literature suggests that it can be used in establishing identification of a person. However, few researches have concluded that, its use in determining sexual dimorphism is limited. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate frontal sinus index using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and differentiate sex dimorphism based on the index obtained. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was undertaken using three-dimensional-CBCT scans. By simple random sampling method, 150 scans were selected, out of which 74 were of male and 76 were of female within the age group of 20-64 years. The frontal sinus width and the height were measured, and the ratio was taken as frontal sinus index. This index was correlated to the differentiation of sex. Data were analyzed using SPSS, and sex dimorphism was assessed using discriminant function analysis. Results: The mean height of the frontal sinus in both males and females was 30.12 ± 7.6 mm and 30.14 ± 7.8 mm, respectively. The mean width of frontal sinus in males (13.39 ± 3.6 mm) was slightly more than that of females (12.06 ± 3 mm). Conclusion: The parameter frontal sinus index measured using CBCT was found to be a contributing factor in sex determination in forensic identification within the sample population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CBCT (Cone-beam computed tomography) is used for diagnosis, planning of treatment, and research. However, there are doubts and opinions regarding the use of CBCT for children and in pediatric dentistry. The knowledge about using this technique for pediatric patients is not clear to the dentists and some dental situations are still debated, therefore this study was done to understand the awareness and knowledge among dental practitioners and students across Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional and descriptive survey was done on 464 dental practitioners and students, and 21 questions were put forward to assess the knowledge and awareness. All questions were then critically analyzed individually and descriptively concluded with appropriate references. Our study revealed that still very few dental practitioners are aware about the latest advances and use of this technique in pediatric dentistry, and more awareness needs to be created. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify the location of root resorption in relation to an impacted maxillary canine and grade its severity using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the Saudi Arabian population. Materials and Methods: CBCT scans of 169 patients with maxillary canine impaction were evaluated. The location and the severity of root resorption of the affected tooth in relation to the impacted maxillary canine were recorded for each patient. Results: a total 204 impacted maxillary canines caused root resorption in 218 adjacent teeth. Maximum root resorption was present in 63.3% of the apical one-third of the root and 37.6% of the palatal surfaces. There was mild root resorption in 55%, moderate in 10% and severe in 35%. There was no statistically significant difference between the gender, age, type of impaction, side of impaction, and the number, location, or degree of root resorption. Multiple logistic regression models showed significant association (p = 0.024) between gender, type of impaction, and root resorption. A significant correlation was found between the level and the surface of the root resorption (p = 0.018). Conclusion: In the Saudi population, apical one-third root levels and palatal surfaces were primarily involved in root resorption caused by impacted canines. The females with bilateral canine impaction were more likely affected by root resorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT) imaging technique can be used for identifying the root canal anatomy and its use in determining sexual dimorphism. The aim of current study was to identify the commonly found root canal morphology and gender dimorphism for mandibular pre-molars in Western Asia population according to Vertucci's classification using CBCT 3D imaging technique. On ethical approval 470 patients from Western Asia population with intact healthy mandibular first and second premolars were included in the study. The selected patients were sent to radiology department of Riyadh Elm University, Saudi Arabia for CBCT images. The observations recorded included: i) number of roots; and ii) type of root canal morphology based on Vertucci's classification. All the mandibular first and second pre-molars had single root both in males and females. The type of Vertucci's classification commonly observed was Type I both in males (88.94 %) and females (100 %) in mandibular first pre-molars. Similarly Type I was identified as a common root canal configuration in mandibular second pre-molars for males (82.77 %) and females (100 %). The two canal configurations Type IV and V were only observed in the males. It can be concluded from the results mandibular first and second pre-molars in the Western Asia population are single rooted with common Vertucci's Type I canal configuration in the females with rare evidence of two canals in males. Additionally CBCT is an effective technique and should be used for detection of root canals in the mandibular pre-molars which can aid dentists in providing a successful endodontic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to facilitate a surgeon's preoperative assessment by detecting the prevalence, location, and course of the mandibular incisive canal (MIC) in our population. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective study was conducted at King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A total of 93 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of patients aged 18-50 years were taken. The images were reformatted from the sagittal sections to para-sagittal sections at premolars, canines, lateral incisors, and central incisors measured to the distance of MIC to the tooth apex, to the inferior border of the mandible, to the buccal cortex, and to the lingual cortex. RESULTS: MIC among the patients was found to be present in 96.8% of the total subjects. Prevalence between genders showed that it was present in 97.9% of the male patients and 95.5% of the female patients. The average distance from the buccal cortex is 4.88, the lingual cortex is 5.54, inferior border is 9.94, and root apices is 7.67. The age-wise and gender-wise comparison of a mean distance of MIC to the different surfaces in the different cross-sections showed that there is no correlation, and there is a significant correlation, respectively. CONCLUSION: The detection of the MIC presence and location using CBCT should be earnestly considered for surgical procedures that are intended to be done in the interforaminal region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective of this study was to use CBCT to look into the root canal morphology of maxillary premolars in a Saudi Arabian subpopulation and associate the results to existing canal morphology classifications. Methods: The sample size for this analysis was 500 right and left untreated maxillary first and second premolars with fully formed roots from 250 Saudi residents (125 male and 125 female). The following observations were made using CBCT on the teeth related: (1) The number and morphology of roots; (2) The canal morphology for each root according to Vertucci's classification. The frequency and similarities between the right and left sides, as well as between females and males, were studied. The Chi-square test was used to assess the results. Results: Of the 500 maxillary first premolars studied, 199 teeth had one root (39.8%), whilst 293 (58.6%) were two-rooted. Three-rooted maxillary first premolars were found in 8 (1.6%). For maxillary second premolars, 416 premolars had one root (83.2%), whilst 79 (15.8%) had two roots and the rest 5 (1.0%) were three roots. There were significant differences of number of root were found between groups (p > 0.05). For maxillary first premolar, Type IV was the most frequent, accounting for 57.8% of the sample (n = 289), followed by type II (32.8%, n = 164). For maxillary second premolar, Type I was mainly occurrence 302 (60.4%), followed by Type II (16.4%, n = 82). Conclusions: The majority of maxillary first premolars had two roots and two root canals, while one root and one root canal was the most common anatomical configuration for maxillary second premolars. Additional canal forms do occur on occasion, and clinicians should pay close attention to them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computed tomography (CT) is a widely utilized imaging technique in various medical applications due to the advanced technology that allows the diagnosis of diseases efficiently. The aims of this study were (1) to assess the radiation dose and the probability of cancer incidence for pediatric head CT scans, and (2) to analyze the influence of age and other scanning parameters on radiation dose. A total of 224 pediatric patients, ranging in age from newborn to 18 years, were collected from three main hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The patient data were divided into four age groups: Group 1 (0 to < 1 year old), Group 2 (1 to < 5 years old), Group 3 (5 to < 10 years old), and Group 4 (10 to < 18 years old). Initially, descriptive statistics were conducted for the values of volume CT dose index (CTDI vol), dose-length product (DLP), effective dose, and probability of lifetime cancer risk. This was followed by applying the Kruskal-Wallis H and the Mann-Whitney U tests to investigate the influence of age and other scanning parameters, namely tube voltage, slice thickness, and the use of automatic tube current modulation (ATCM), on radiation dose. It has been found that as the age of patients increased, there was a corresponding increase in CTDI vol and DLP values and a decrease in effective doses and lifetime cancer risk. The patient's age accounted for 33.4% and 34.9% of the variations in CTDI vol and DLP, respectively, while tube voltage (kVp) settings accounted for 25.8% and 24.9%, respectively. There was an increase of 22.3% in CTDI vol reported for patients scanned with a slice thickness of 2 mm compared to those scanned at 2.5 mm, and a 2.2% dose increase between slice thicknesses of 2.5 mm and 5 mm. Radiation doses in the surveyed hospitals fall within acceptable limits. Further studies in Saudi Arabia should focus on evaluating patient doses based on the actual sizes, which determine radiation doses for pediatric CT imaging more accurately. • A total of 225 routine head CT scans were collected from three main hospitals. • Patient dose increased with age, but effective dose and cancer risk decreased. • The patient's age and tube voltage accounted for 33–35% and 25–26% of the dose variations, respectively. • The use of a thinner slice thickness led to a dose increase of 2.2–22.3%. • No statistically significant difference was found between scans acquired with and without ATCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives : An understanding of the anatomical complexity of teeth is a significant factor for a successful endodontic treatment outcome. The aim of this study was to explore the frequency and pattern of distribution of radix entomolaris (RE) in mandibular first molars (MFMs) of a Saudi Arabian subpopulation using CBCT scans. Materials and Methods : This study was conducted at dental clinics of Qassim University from February to May 2023 by evaluating CBCT scans that were previously obtained for diagnostic purposes. Scans of Saudi national patients with bilaterally present MFMs and fully formed root apices were included. Conversely, scans with one/or two missing MFMs, MFMs with incomplete root apices, full- or partial-coverage prosthesis, endodontic treatment, and associated radicular resorption were excluded from study. A total of 303 CBCT scans with 606 bilateral MFMs were analyzed by two calibrated evaluators for the presence of, and type according to Song's typolgy of RE. The data were analyzed using SPPS-24. The descriptive variables were documented as frequencies and percentages. The chi-square test was used to determine the association between the prevalence of RE with the gender, jaw side and age group. Both inter-rater and intra-rater agreements were estimated for detecting and classifying RE using Cohen's kappa test. Results : The sample had 63.7% males and 36.3% females. The prevalence of RE was 6.6%, with Song's type III (57.5%) as the most common variant. Absolute agreement was noted between the raters about the presence of RE and very strong agreement was noted for the classification of the RE. Conclusions : RE is an uncommon finding among the mandibular first molars of the Saudi population without any gender and quadrant predilection. The clinicians' knowledge of the presence and Song's type of RE may contribute towards the enhancement of endodontic treatment outcomes.

Purpose: To assess the prevalence and distribution of pulp stones in a Saudi population., Methods: A cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) analysis of 150 upper and 150 lower dental arches was performed. The relationships between pulp stones and age, sex, tooth type, dental arch, orthodontic treatment, caries, and restoration were statistically examined (P < 0.05)., Results: A total of 295 dental arches (98.3%) had at least one pulp stone, and the prevalence was higher in the maxillary teeth (56.2%) than in the mandibular teeth (48.1%) (P = 0.0003). Men were more likely to have pulp stones than women (P = 0.011 for the maxilla, P < 0.0001 for the mandible). Furthermore, age and orthodontic treatment had no significant effects on the incidence of pulp stones (P > 0.05). A higher occurrence of pulp stones was observed in the first molars (>91%), and in carious and restored teeth when compared to intact teeth (P < 0.05)., Conclusion: Pulp stones were more prevalent in the upper dental arches, first molars, and carious and restored teeth, as well as in the male population, and were not associated with age or orthodontic treatment.

Objectives: To evaluate the horizontal and vertical location of the mental foramen (MF), as well as the relationship of lower premolars to buccal and lingual cortical plates using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study conducted using CBCT scans that were obtained between early 2014 and late 2016 from King Saud University Dental hospital database in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 94 patients (53 males and 41 females) were included. Three examiners independently performed one-sided measurements for each patient. Data analyzed statistically and a p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean distances from the outer boundary of the buccal cortex to the first and second premolars (R1) were 1.55 mm and 1.98 mm. The mean distances from the outer boundary of the lingual cortical plate to the first and second premolars (R2) were 4.06 mm and 4.73 mm. The respective mean total bone thicknesses, including the roots of the first and second premolars (R3), were 9.32 mm and 10.08 mm. The mean distance between the MF and the mandibular second premolar apex was 3.13 mm. Conclusion: Mandibular premolars are in close proximity to MF especially mandibular second premolar. Presurgical assessment is essential when surgical treatment is planned at this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The aim of this study was to investigate the root canal morphology of maxillary first premolars in Saudi Arabian subpopulation by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods. One hundred maxillary first premolars were collected from the College of Dentistry at Jazan University and different dental centers in the southern region of Saudi Arabia. These teeth were cleaned thoroughly and were mounted in a plastic artificial mandible jaw to mimic soft tissue which was then placed in a water container. The 3D scan images were obtained with CBCT imaging (3D Accuitomo170) and evaluated on the basis of the number of roots, number of canals, and root canal configuration using Vertucci's classification. Results. Out of the 100 maxillary first premolars, the majority of teeth had 2 roots (61%) followed by (36%) one root. Two canals were the most predominant with 97% and then 3% three canals, and no tooth presented with one canal. Type IV canal configuration was most prevalent (75%) followed by Type V (13%). Conclusions. The CBCT provides enhanced and accurate information of root morphology, canal configuration, and its variations, thereby constituting an excellent alternative for radiographic diagnosis tool in the dental practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Recent advancements in clinical dentistry have increased the possibilities of surgical procedures in the mental region. A detailed knowledge of mental foramen (MF) morphometry is significant to preserve integrity of the mental nerve trunk in surgical interventions such as orthognathic surgery, implant placement and anaesthetic block.Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the most accurate position of the mental foramen by using new assessment approach in a sample of dental patients presenting to the specialist dental clinic, College of Dentistry, Al Jouf University, Saudi Arabia.Study Design: A retrospective study was performed using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) of 600 patients (40.1 ± 11.78 years old). Following inclusion and exclusion criteria, 395 CBCT were finally obtained and analyzed for the most accurate position of the mental foramen (MF) by OnDemand 3D software (Seoul, Korea). Prevalence of shape of MF and accessory MF were also assessed. Pearson chi-square test was employed to test significant differences between genders and races.Results: The most common horizontal and vertical position of the mental foramen was in line with the long axis of 2nd premolar (41.3%) and below the root apex level (93.2%), respectively. The most common shape of MF was round type (72.66%). The prevalence of accessory 2MF and 3MF was 2.28% and 0.25%, respectively.Conclusion: New information about MF presented in this article can help anatomists, prosthodontists, orthodontists, surgeons, forensic odontologists and paleoanthropologists to predict the position of the MF and perform safer surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study measures the CT dose of the abdomen and pelvic examinations for adult patients, as well as establishes the provincial diagnostic reference level (DRL) for hospitals in Taif city, Saudi Arabia. A total of 200 patients who underwent pelvis and abdomen examinations in two main hospitals in Taif city were selected for this study. The data were collected in a spreadsheet that records patients' demographic data, exposure parameters and dose indicators such as dose length product (DLP) and volume computed tomography dose index (CTDIvol) for each examination. The patients' average age and BMI were 37.3 years and 25.5 kg/m2, respectively. The mean DLP and CTDIvol for the pelvis were found to be 379.6 mGy-cm and 10.8 mGy, respectively, whereas the corresponding mean values for the abdomen were 369.5 mGy-cm and 11.5 mGy, respectively. The average effective dosages for the abdomen and pelvis in both hospitals were estimated to be 5.6 and 7.2 mSv, respectively. Based on the third quartile data of DLP and CTDIvol, this study suggests DRL for pelvic DLP and CTDIw are 402.5 mGy-cm and 21.8 mGy, respectively, whereas the respective values are 407.5 mGy-cm and 18.4 mGy for CT abdominal DLP and CTDIw. The present study reports lower values for effective dose and DRL when compared with earlier data available in the literature. However, this work suggests further studies with different kV stations on pediatric patients in the future. • Radiation dose for adult CT abdomen and pelvis were assessed. • Average DLP and CTDIw for adult CT abdomen and pelvis were evaluated. • Average patient effective dose for CT abdomen and pelvis were estimated to be 5.6 and 7.2 mSv. • Third quartile of DLP and CTDIw was used to establish provincial DRL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study's goal was to use Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to assess the root and root canal anatomy of mandibular second molars with C-shaped root canal configurations in residents of the Hail district. The impact of gender and side on the frequency of root canal morphology was considered., Methods: The sample size for this study was 304 untreated mandibular second molars with completely developed roots on the right and left sides. Using CBCT on the teeth, the root form and canal morphology for each root are based on Vertucci's classification. The occurrence of canals in the shape of a C. The prevalence and resemblance of the left and right sides or men and females were investigated. The Chi-square test was performed to evaluate the findings., Results: Of the 304 mandibular second molars studied, 286 teeth had two roots (94.1%), whilst 13 (4.3%) were C-shaped root canal systems. 77 molars (25.3%) had two canal orifices, 219 (72.0%) had three canal orifices, and six (2.0%) and one (0.3%) had four and five root canal orifices, respectively. Type IV was the most common for mesial root, accounting for 57.7% of the sample (n = 176). For distal root, the most common occurrence was type I, which occurred 282 times (96.60%). The most prevalent root canal morphology was the presence of two canals in the mesial root and one canal in the distal root of teeth with two distinct roots (variant 3). (69.4%). The overall prevalence of C-shaped root canal systems is (4.3%) (n = 13)., Conclusions: The patient's race is an undeniable factor that influences root canal anatomy. The root canal morphology of mandibular second molars revealed significant differences between Saudi subpopulations. The majority of mandibular second molars had two roots and three root canals. When treating these molars, the presence of a C-shaped root canal system must be taken into account., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

To understand the limitations of laboratory measurements in evaluating the rock properties of bioturbated reservoirs, this study integrates field investigations, computed tomography (CT) scanning, image analysis, spot permeability measurements and geostatistical modeling with previously published porosity and permeability results of Upper Jurassic bioturbated carbonate strata in central Saudi Arabia (Upper Jubaila Member). The porosity and permeability measurements from previous studies have indicated that the studied strata are very tight, with porosity ranging from 0.3 to 4.8% (mean [μ] = 1.2 ± 1.4) and permeability ranging from 0.0 to 2.0 mD (μ = 0.01 ± 0.03 mD). The field investigation results from this study showed that these strata were extensively bioturbated (10% to 50% burrow intensity) and dominated by Thalassinoides burrows. These Thalassinoides burrows had either open or partially filled shafts with diameters ranging from 2 to 5 cm in 2D outcrop faces. The results from CT scanning of a boulder-sized rock sample (~68 cm × 27 cm × 15 cm) with 20% bioturbated intensity from the studied strata showed that the Thalassinoides burrows developed a connected burrow porosity network within a tight matrix (spot permeabilities of the matrix ranging from 0.05 to 0.22 mD with μ = 0.07 ± 0.05 mD). Interestingly, however, in cropped volumes of the CT scans (with core plug and whole core sizes), the entire connected pore network of the Thalassinoides burrows is not represented. Instead, these volumes show isolated pores, erroneously indicating the absence of a connected permeability pathway for Thalassinoides burrows in the CT scanned sample. In 2D slices of the CT scans, however, Thalassinoides burrows show connected porous pore network from one end to the opposite end, suggesting a permeable pathway. The visual porosity estimated from these 2D slices has a μ value of 18 ± 4.8%, which is significantly larger than what was estimated for the Upper Jubaila strata in previous studies. Geostatistical models of the CT scanned sample estimated that the bulk permeability (permeability of a homogenized sample with a steady-state flow) was at least 1200 mD; this value is also significantly higher than previous estimates for the studied strata. This study highlights the inability of core plugs and full-diameter cores to capture the complete burrow porosity network, a limitation that can be problematic in the characterization of rock properties of bioturbated hydrocarbon reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is currently being used as the most common diagnostic method to evaluate the bone density of the maxilla and the mandible for planning dental implant. Aim: The aim of the study is to check the quantitative alveolar bone density in complete or partial edentulous and dentulous male and female patients among Riyadh sample population in Saudi Arabia., Materials and Methods: The study involved a cross-sectional analysis of 231 consecutive CBCT images of 231 different patients (115 males and 116 females). The scans were of Saudi National patients who were partially or completely edentulous without any bone infections in the maxilla and the mandible. The findings are presented as descriptive statistics and inferential statistics: student -t-test for two group means, ANOVA for three groups, Post-hoc LSD test for multiple comparisons, Levene statistics for testing the homogeneity of variances and a statistical significance at 5% level., Results: Comparison of mean alveolar bone density in maxillae of dentulous male smokers showed a statistically significant difference for bucco-cortical plate and cancellous bone among different regions. In dentulous male nonsmokers, no significant difference was observed for maxillary regions, while in mandibular areas, a statistically significant difference was seen for buccal cortex, palatal cortex, and cancellous bone among different regions. While studying the scans of female dentulous patients, a statistically significant difference was observed in alveolar bone density for all the areas., Conclusion: Evaluation of bone density is an important step in treatment planning and this study was aimed to provide insight into bone density patterns of population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Further similar studies in different populations can help in planning for more efficient treatment outcomes., Competing Interests: None

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of the C-shaped root canal configuration, location of the longitudinal groove, sex differences, and unilateral/bilateral presence in mandibular first and second molars in a Saudi population using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)., Materials and Methods: CBCT images for the mandibular first and second molars of 487 patients (a total of 529 first molars and 681 s molars) were evaluated. The teeth were assessed for the presence of C-shaped root canals according to Fan criteria. Subdivisions were also made according to sex, direction of the longitudinal groove, and unilateral/bilateral presence., Results: Only one C-shaped mandibular first molar was observed (0.19%), whereas 62 second molars (9.1%) exhibited C-shaped anatomy. Unilateral presence of the C-shaped root canal system was more common (53.85%). Female patients had a higher prevalence than males. Longitudinal grooves were most commonly found on the root lingual surface (58.1%)., Conclusions: The prevalence of the C-shaped canal configuration in a Saudi Arabian population was 0.19% in the mandibular first molar and 9.1% in the mandibular second molar. Longitudinal groove prevalence was highest on the lingual surface. Women had a significantly higher prevalence of the C-shaped canal configuration than men. Patients with unilateral presence of the C-shaped canal configuration were more common than those with bilateral presence., Clinical Relevance: Tooth type, patient sex, and ethnicity can help clinicians predict the prevalence of the C-shaped canal system in mandibular molars.