Localización de la Língula Mandibular en Pacientes Pediátricos Mediante Radiografía Panorámica

The mandibular lingula (ML) is described as a triangular bony prominence located on the medial surface of the mandibular ramus. However, its specific location varies during each individual’s development and growth, which must be considered in clinical procedures involving this area. The aim of this study was to determine the anatomical location of the lingula through panoramic radiographs (PR) in patients aged 5 to 12 years, identifying its topographical changes over time. In this cross-sectional observational study, 407 PRs were obtained from the imaging service of the Universidad Andrés Bello, Viña del Mar, Chile. The position of the ML was assessed concerning three specific reference points: (a) the lower occlusal plane, (b) the anterior margin of the ramus, and (c) the distal surface of the most posterior tooth in the hemi-maxilla. Statistical analysis was conducted, with a confidence level of p<0.05 to evaluate statistical significance according to eruption stages. This study was approved by the Research and Ethics Committee of the School of Dentistry of Universidad Andrés Bello. The position of the lingula relative to the occlusal plane shifts cranially as the patient grows (1.7 mm at 5 years and 4.2 mm at 12 years). Its distance from the anterior margin of the mandibular ramus ranged from 14.3 mm (6 years) to 15.2 mm (10 years). The distance to the distal surface of the most posterior erupted tooth varies depending on the patient’s eruption stage. No significant differences were found related to the stages of eruption, except for the lingula’s position relative to the occlusal plane. The mandibular lingula is an anatomical landmark whose location changes as the patient grows, which must be considered by clinicians.