Odontometric study of premolars - A convenient method for gender determination

Abstract

Introduction-Determining the sex of an individual is indeed a crucial step in forensic medicine, as it provides valuable information for various investigative and identification purposes. Teeth are decent source for gender determination.  Odontometrics offers a benefit of being simple, speedy, and low cost.

Aim- To verify the premolar odontometric differences in sex determination.

Methodology- Mesiodistal and buccolingual measurements of premolar crown were calibrated for males and females on 50 pairs of plaster models (25 pairs from both sex) from age group 20-40 years. First and second premolars of Upper and lower jaws of both left and right sides were examined with regard to their mesiodistal (MD) and buccolingual (BL)measurements and the intra-arch premolars linear distance measured from lingual-lingual cusp (3cusp premolars were excluded from study) tips using divider and digital vernier calliper.

Result- The Statistical study incorporated the use of SPSS version 23. Significant difference was noted in the odontometric of premolars and lingual-lingual cusp distance. This difference was significant in males. Sexual dimorphism was noted in Mandibular left 1^st premolar and maxillary left 2^nd premolar with Mesiodistal measurement. The Buccolingual measurements of all the 2^nd premolars demonstrated a significant male predominance.

Conclusion-It was observed in this study that the use of 2^nd premolar buccolingual measurements and linear distance between lingual-lingual cusps of intra arch premolars of opposite side may be used in odontometric as an aid to determine the sex, males showed a significantly higher odontometric.