Canalis Sinuosus Awareness and CBCT Recognition Among Saudi Dental Students and Dentists: A Cross-Sectional Study

The canalis sinuosus (CS) may be overlooked during cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) interpretation, yet little is known about awareness of this anatomic structure. This study evaluated awareness of the CS and its recognition on CBCT images among dental students and dentists in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among dental students and dentists. Participants completed questions on previous knowledge of the CS and interpreted 2 CBCT cases demonstrating the CS. Associations between participant characteristics and previous knowledge or correct identification were analyzed using the Fisher exact test. A total of 477 participants were included. Previous knowledge of the CS was reported by 81 participants (17.0%). Approximately 60% recognized that the CBCT cases required additional surgical caution, although only 8 participants (1.7%) correctly identified the CS in at least 1 case. Undergraduate courses were the most commonly reported source of previous knowledge. Correct identification was significantly associated with previous knowledge (P<0.001) and clinical rank (P=0.029). Awareness of the CS and recognition on CBCT images were low among dental students and dentists in Saudi Arabia. Strengthening education in anterior maxillary anatomy and CBCT interpretation may improve recognition of the CS and support safer clinical practice.