Purpose: The nasopalatine canal (NPC) is one of the most significant anatomical markers in the anterior maxillary region. Its location is quite important, especially for implant placement. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to use cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to evaluate the morphology, size, and anatomic variations of the NPC. Methods: A total of 150 individual CBCT images were assessed in various sections to evaluate the dimensions, morphology, and extent of the NPC. Reformatted sagittal images were chosen to classify the shape and course of the canal. The Student’s t-test, the χ 2 test, and Pearson correlation coefficients were used. Results: The NPC was longer in males than in females, and the mediolateral diameter of the canal was greater in older adults. In sagittal sections, the canal predominantly exhibits a cylindrical shape, while a spindle shape is the least common. In coronal sections, a single shape is most frequently observed, with a Y-shape being the least common. Regarding the orientation of the canal, slanted canals are more prevalent, whereas vertically curved canals are rare. Typically, 2 canal openings are observed, with 4 openings being the least common. Conclusion The current study highlights the challenges associated with identifying the anatomical appearance and variations of the NPC. Consequently, possessing a thorough understanding of this anatomy is essential before undertaking any surgical procedures, such as implant placement. This knowledge helps prevent complications such as nerve injuryrelated loss of sensation, bleeding due to blood vessel injury, and the development of a nasopalatine duct cyst following trauma to the canal during surgery.

COVID-19 ; Delivery of Health Care ; Humans ; Pakistan ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Telemedicine

PURPOSE: Radiographs is an integral part of patient management in dentistry, despite their detrimental effects. As the literature pertaining to radiation protection among Indian dental practitioners is sparse, exploring such protection is needed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All private dental practitioners in Mangalore, India were included in the study. A structured, pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire was employed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, practices, previous training, perceptions towards the need to spread awareness, and willingness to gain and implement knowledge about radiation hazards and protection. Information regarding each respondent's age, gender, education, and type and duration of practice was collected. RESULTS: Overall, 87 out of 120 practitioners participated in the study. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 9.54+/-2.54, 59.39+/-7.01, and 5.80+/-3.19, respectively. Overall, 25.3% of the respondents had undergone training in radiation protection, 98.9% perceived a need to spread awareness, and 94.3% were willing to improve their knowledge. Previous training showed a significant correlation with age, sex, and duration of practice; attitude was significantly correlated with education and type of practice; and knowledge scores showed a significant correlation with type of practice. CONCLUSION: Although the knowledge and practices of respondents were poor, they had a positive attitude and were willing to improve their knowledge. Age, sex, and duration of practice were associated with previous training; education and type of practice with attitude scores; and type of practice with knowledge scores. The findings of this study suggest a policy is needed to ensure the adherence of dental practitioners to radiation protection guidelines.
Demography ; Dentistry ; Education ; General Practice, Dental ; Humans ; India ; Radiation Protection* ; Surveys and Questionnaires