Retromolar foramen: a mandibular variant important to dentistry.

The retromolar foramen (RMF) was found to occur in eighteen of 234 adult human mandibles studied (7.7%). No statistically significant difference was found between left and right sides or between sexes. A statistical correlation was made between the occurrence of the RMF and accessory mandibular foramina, accessory mental foramina, mandibular third molars, and three-rooted mandibular first molars. Only the accessory mandibular foramen showed a significant positive correlation with RMF regarding same-side occurrence. Three-rooted first molars were not found in any of the mandibles studied. Due to the relatively frequent occurrence of RMF, it is important for the dental practitioner to be aware of this variant and the possible complications which may occur during the administration of anesthesia and surgical procedures in the region.