CBCT assessment of gubernacular canals in relation to eruption disturbance and pathological condition associated with impacted/unerupted teeth

Publication date: Available online 26 September 2018

Source: Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology

Author(s): Nagihan Koc, Hatice Boyacioglu Dogru, L. Berna Cagirankaya, Sema Dural, Paul F. van der Stelt

Abstract

Objectives

To demonstrate the imaging characteristics of gubernacular canals (GCs) in impacted/unerupted permanent teeth and to determine whether these characteristics differ by the presence of eruption disturbances or pathological conditions associated with impacted/unerupted teeth.

Study Design

GCs were retrospectively analyzed by using cone beam computed tomography in 250 patients with 753 impacted/unerupted permanent teeth (105 male, 145 female; mean age, 21.09 ± 14.45 years; range, 6 to 70 years).

Results

The detection rate of GCs was significantly lower in cases with eruption disturbances than in those without eruption disturbances. An inverse correlation was observed between age and detection of GC. Similarly, root resorption of the adjacent teeth and resorption of the impacted/unerupted teeth were associated with lower detection rates of GCs. However, no association was found for widening of the follicular space. Regression analysis determined disturbed eruption pattern as the most important factor for the absence of GCs.

Conclusions

The absence of GC may indicate a disturbed eruption pattern of the tooth and may increase the risk of complications related to impaction resulting in a tooth that is more likely to remain unerupted.

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