Surgical Tip of the Week #1
How To Avoid IAN InjuryA quality panoramic x-ray is sufficient when assessing possible IAN injury while removing third molars. Nine panoramic radiographic markers can reliably predict IAN injury. ACT is recommended when injury is likely.

SUPERIMPOSITION
Third molar roots are usually buccal or lingual to the IAN canal. This is termed radiographic “superimposition”. A quality digital panoramic x-ray can show you superimposition and at least 10 other indicators for intimate root contact with the inferior alveolar nerve.
Superimposition – The IAN canal “white lines” are continuous and uninterrupted indicating buccal or lingual root position and no intimate contact with the IAN. The root is not radiolucent near the canal.
- Flap
- Trough
- Section
- Split
- Remove
- Debride & Irrigate
- Close