Evaluation of submandibular fossa depth and morphology using cone-beam computed tomography: a correlation with alveolar bone height and edentulism

Aims: To evaluate the morphology of the submandibular fossa (SF) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to determine its relationship with alveolar bone dimensions and edentulism.Methods: A total of 116 CBCT scans of patients aged 18 years or older were retrospectively analyzed. SF height, SF depth, lingual concavity angle, alveolar bone height, and alveolar bone width were measured bilaterally on coronal CBCT sections at the site of maximum SF depth. Comparisons between sides, sexes, and dentate versus edentulous regions were performed, and correlations between age, SF parameters, and alveolar bone dimensions were analyzed. Results: Linear dimensions of the SF and alveolar bone demonstrated bilateral symmetry, whereas the lingual concavity angle was significantly greater on the left side (p