The Use of Canine Teeth in the Establishment of Sexual Dimorphism in the Madhya Pradesh (Mahakoushal Region) Population

Abstract

Forensic odontology plays an important role in establishing sex, age, and race of unidentified persons. It involves proper handling and examination of dental evidence, thorough scientific specimen evaluation, and an accurate reporting of the dental findings. Teeth can be selectively preserved and fossilized, thereby providing well-preserved records of the evolutionary process for anthropological, genetic, odontologic, and forensic investigations. Therefore, it follows that the canine tooth can be a useful tool in establishing sexual dimorphism. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the use of morphometric analysis of the canine teeth in determining gender determination in Madhya Pradesh (Mahakoushal region) population. Materials and Methods: The present study included 200 subjects (100 males and 100 females) with age ranging from 16-28 years. All the subjects who participated in the study were recruited from patients attending the outpatient department at the Hitkarini Dental College and Hospital. It was made sure that who participated in the study were of Madhya Pradesh origin only. Maxillary and mandibular impressions were made using alginate and study models were prepared in dental stone. The mesiodistal width of all canines and inter-canine distances were measured using digital Vernier calipers of 0.01 resolution. Results: Results showed that mesiodistal width of the right and left maxillary and mandibular canines was greater in males than in females (p<0.001). Inter-canine distance of maxillary and mandibular canines was also greater in males than in females (p<0.001). The standard mandibular canine index was slightly higher than standard maxillary canine index. Conclusion: In our study we observed that sexual dimorphism was seen in all four canine teeth. It was most obvious in the mandibular right canine tooth.