Trigeminal neuropathy: Improved imaging with a dental computed tomography software program

Purpose: This study evaluated the use of images obtained by a dental computed tomography (CT) software program in the diagnosis and treatment of trigeminal neuropathy associated with jaw abnormality. Patients and Methods: Twelve patients with jaw abnormality associated with trigeminal neuropathy as the presenting symptom were studied by plain film radiography (PFR) and by a dental CT software program (DS) that displays multiple panoramic and cross-sectional views of the mandible and maxilla. The two modalities were compared for delineation of the integrity of mandibular foramen, mandibular canal, mental foramen, incisive foramen, and incisive canal. Also, displacement of the neurovascular bundle was evaluated and scored. Results: The DS was superior to PFR in showing the bony integrity of the foramina and canals in the jaws, as well as the degree of displacement of the neurovascular bundle. Conclusion: DS should be the study of choice for evaluating trigeminal neuropathy associated with abnormalities of the jaws.