Mandibular foramen in young children is.. Above the level of occlusal plane

Mandibular foramen in young children is:

• a. At level of occlusal plane.
• b. Above the level of occlusal plane.
• c. Anterior the level of occlusal plane.
• d. Below the level of occlusal plane.

The mandibular foramen was located 4.12 mm below the occlusal plane at the age of 3. It subsequently moved upward with age. By the age of 9, it had reached approximately the same level as the occlusal plane. The foramen continued to move upward to 4.16 mm above the occlusal plane in the adult group.

The location of the mandibular foramen in young children is: b. Above the level of the occlusal plane.

Here's a breakdown of the options with an image for better understanding:

a. At the level of the occlusal plane:

This is not accurate. In young children, the mandibular foramen is still developing and lies above the occlusal plane.

b. Above the level of the occlusal plane:

This is the correct answer. The mandibular foramen typically sits about 2-3 millimeters above the occlusal plane in children aged 7-8 years, gradually ascending with age.

c. Anterior to the level of the occlusal plane:

This is not a valid direction in this context. The mandibular foramen is located on the medial surface of the mandibular ramus, not anterior to it.

d. Below the level of the occlusal plane:

This is inaccurate. The mandibular foramen starts below the occlusal plane in infants but gradually moves upward as the jaw develops.

It's important to note that the exact location of the mandibular foramen can vary slightly depending on individual anatomy and age. However, understanding its general position above the occlusal plane in young children is crucial for various dental procedures, particularly anesthesia administration.