Determination of Sexual Dimorphism by Odontometric Study of Permanent Maxillary Incisors and Canines: A Cross-sectional Study from Population of Haryana

Abstract

Introduction: Sex determination is one of the prime factors employed to assist with the identification of an individual. As extensively mutilated bodies are difficult to identify, teeth can be used as they can withstand bacterial decomposition and fire. Odontometric parameters can be used for gender determination in a specific population. Variations have been documented in different regions in determining sex of an individual using tooth size and accuracy of odontometric sex prediction which prompted us to draw population specific data. Aim: To evaluate permanent maxillary incisors and canines for sexual dimorphism and to estimate the level of accuracy with which they could be used for sex determination in the age group of 18-24 years in Haryana. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study comprised of 300 subjects (150 males and150 females) in the age group of 18-24 years, from population of Haryana during January 2017 to May 2017. Maximum mesiodistal (MD) diameter of permanent maxillary incisors and canines were measured using digital vernier calliper. The mean, range, and standard deviation were calculated for the size of the teeth. A two-sample t-test was used to test for statistical difference between means. Results: The present study comprised of 300 individuals (150 males with mean age of 20.81 years and 150 females with mean age 20.54 years) between the age group of 18-24 years. Mean mesiodistal dimension for each tooth was found to be greater in males as compared to females with statistically significant difference for right canine (p-value=0.003), left canine (p-value=0.001) and right lateral incisor (p-value=0.019). Left maxillary canine showed highest percentage (3.164%) of sexual dimorphism. The level of accuracy of sex determination when all the teeth under study were taken into consideration was 62.7% of females and 58% of males. Conclusion: Sexual dimorphism of teeth is population specific and was well evident in population of Haryana, hence the mesiodistal dimensions in maxillary left permanent canine can aid in sex determination.