Abstract: Abstract: Objective To analyze the course of the mandibular canal, providing the theoretical basis for implanting and bone grafting. Methods Mandibular data of 90 people from Jiangsu province obtained by cone-beam computed tomography were collected and analyzed by NNT 4.6 considering the effects of genders and sides. Results The mean distance from the border of mandibular canal to the alveolar crest was increased first then started to decrease. That to the buccal bone wall was gradually increased from mesial to distal. No significant differences were detected in genders and sides. (p>0.05) That to the lingual bone wall and inferior margin and was gradually decreased from mesial to distal. Significant differences were detected at where 2mm distal to mental foramem both in genders and sides which were inferior in female and left side. (p<0.05) That to the apexes of posterior teeth was gradually decreased from mesial to distal. No significant differences were detected. (p>0.05) Conclusion Mandibular canal position to the alveolar crest and buccal bone wall was symmetrical between two sides and similar in both genders. But that to the lingual bone wall and inferior margin is variable between genders and sides in the area close to mental foramen (within 2mm) in Jiangsu province people.

Key words: CBCT, Mandible, Mandibular canal, Mental foramen, Alveolar crista