Sexual Dimorphism Of Mandibular Canine Among Chennai Population - An Observational Study.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Behavioral and structural changes between genders from the same species is known as sexual dimorphism. Gender determination has important implications in forensic science. Canine is one of the strongest teeth present in the human dentition as they are larger compared to other teeth in the oral cavity.
AIM: To assess the sexual dimorphism of left mandibular canine among chennai population.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included a sample of 40 mandibular casts between the age group of 18-25 years. The mesiodistal width of the left mandibular canine was measured by using a digital caliper.The recorded results were statistically analyzed using independent T-test to assess the gender differentiation.
RESULT: The mesiodistal width of left mandibular canine was more in males (mean=6.43±0.93) compared to that of females (mean=6.30±0.61). The p-value was found to be 0.119 (<0.05).
CONCLUSION: Measurement of mesiodistal width of the mandibular canine might be for gender determination. This will provide a vital role in forensic identification of individuals.