<![CDATA[Background: Accurate evaluation of craniofacial anatomy is essential for diagnostic planning. Variations of the styloid process (SP) provide anatomical data that guide evidence-based clinical and surgical decisions in the head and neck region. Methods: Retrospective cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans retrieved from the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology were examined. SP length, medial angles, calcification patterns, and the radiomorphometric index were assessed. Results: Middle-aged adults represented the majority of the sample. Gender had a statistically significant effect on SP morphology Type 1 was the most common bilaterally, followed by Type 2. Calcification patterns varied between genders but showed no age-related differences. Pattern C was predominantly associated with Type 1 morphology, while Pattern D occurred more frequently in Types 2 and 3. The right SP was significantly longer than the left, particularly in males. Anteroposterior angles did not differ significantly by age or gender, although females demonstrated slightly higher right-sided values. Conclusions: Recognition of elongated SPs is clinically important because they are often incidentally detected on panoramic radiographs and may be linked to craniofacial or cervical symptoms. Comprehensive CBCT assessment, in conjunction with clinical evaluation, enables accurate diagnosis and supports appropriate management of patients with symptomatic SP variations.]]>
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