Radiographic Assessment and Classification of Bifid Mandibular Canal Using Panoramic Imaging in South Sulawesi: A Descriptive Study

Background: The mandibular canal typically appears as a single structure on radiographic images. However, anatomical variations such as bifid mandibular canals (BMC) may occur, posing challenges for surgical and anesthetic procedures in dentistry. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and classification of BMCs using digital panoramic radiography in a South Sulawesi population. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted using 615 panoramic radiographs obtained between January and November 2024 at Hasanuddin University Dental Hospital. Eligible images were assessed for BMCs using the Freitas classification: Class A (inferior), B (mesial), C (alveolar), and D (retromolar). Data on canal type, laterality, gender, and age were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 20, with significance set at P < 0.05. Results: BMCs were identified in 66 of 615 cases, yielding a prevalence of 10.7%. The most frequent type was Class C (34.8%), followed by Class D (28.8%), Class A (22.7%), and Class B (13.6%). The right side was more commonly affected (50.0%), with bilateral occurrences in 31.8%. No statistically significant association was found between gender and BMC prevalence ( P = 0.429). Conclusion: BMCs were relatively common in the study population, with the alveolar (Class C) variant being the most prevalent. Digital panoramic radiography is a practical tool for the preliminary detection of BMCs, aiding in safe dental intervention planning.