Comparative evaluation between the vertical tube shift technique and cone-beam computed tomography for the assessment of the relationship between the inferior alveolar canal and impacted mandibular third molar root apex

Background: Radiographic assessment of the inferior alveolar canal (IAC) location is an essential step before third molar extractions. This study compares intraoral periapical radiographs (vertical tube shift technique) and cone-beam computed tomography to assess the relationship between the impacted mandibular third molar (IMTM) root apex and IAC. Objectives: To evaluate the accuracy of two different radiographic techniques for the assessment of the IAC location in relation to the IMTM root apex. Method: Our study involved 40 patients with IMTM. Two IOPARs were made for the patients using Richard's vertical tube shift technique at vertical angulations of 0° and -10°. A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scan was performed for the same IMTMs. The accuracy of the two methods was compared using statistical analysis with a confidence interval of 95%. Results: The accuracy of IOPARs for the detection of IAC locations placed either buccally or lingually in relation to the IMTM root apex was found to be 85.0% and 100%, respectively, in comparison to CBCT. Conclusion: The vertical tube shift technique is an essential method for detecting the buccal and lingual locations of the IAC, as it was found to be highly significant as compared to Cone-Beam Computed Tomography.