Evaluation of Familial Similarity of Carabelli’s Trait in South Kerala Population: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Abstract Background: The distribution of Carabelli’s trait is variable in different individuals and also amongst children and their parents. Knowledge and distribution of Carabelli’s trait and evaluating their familial similarity can be very useful in forensic dentistry. The forensic implication also includes the identification of deceased individuals, racial identification and cases of disputed paternity. Aim and Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the familial similarity of Carabelli’s trait in South Kerala population and to determine the extent of expression of Carabelli’s pattern in both child and parent. Materials and Methods: Children and their parents from the department of pedodontics over 1 month were selected and examined for the expression of Carabelli’s trait in the maxillary primary second molar and permanent maxillary first molars. For this study, non-carious teeth with good anatomical landmarks are selected. Caries tooth, fractured tooth and supernumerary para molars are excluded from the study. Child age groups between 6 and 12 years were selected and parents of any age groups were selected for the study. Informed consent both verbal and written was taken before taking intraoral impressions and photographs. Maxillary impressions and intraoral photographs of both child and their parent were recorded, and further examination and scoring were done on cast and photographs on the basis of the classification developed by the Arizona State University Dental Anthropology system which specifies the eight grades of expression of Carabelli’s pattern. Result: In our study, we are able to identify a familial similarity in the expression of Carabelli’s trait in children and parents in the South Kerala population. Conclusion: Cusp of carabell’s trait in south Kerala population.