Odontometric Sexual Dimorphism: A Sibling Correlation

Abstract

Aims and Background: Teeth form an excellent material for anthropological, genetic, odontologic and forensic investigations. The aim of this study was to establish the genetic control of sexual dimorphism in tooth size amongst siblings of Goan children in age range of 14-22 years. Materials and Methods: Twenty-two sibling pairs were selected (22 males and 22 females) to assess genetic control of sexual dimorphism in tooth size. Alginate impressions were obtained for maxillary and mandibular arches and study models were prepared. Measurements were done using Zoom Digimatic Vernier Calipers with a resolution of 0.01 mm. Statistical Analysis: Correlation between mesiodistal and buccolingual tooth sizes amongst siblings was calculated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: A statistically significant association was found between Mesiodistal Widths of Permanent Maxillary Right and Left Second Molars and between Maxillary Right and Left First Premolars amongst sibling pairs. A statistically significant association was also found between Buccolingual Widths of Mandibular Right and Left First Premolars amongst sibling pairs. This statistically significant correlation found amongst siblings establishes a genetic control over sexual dimorphism in these teeth. Conclusion: The genetic basis of sexual dimorphism in human dentition was ascertained as a significant correlation was found between mesio-distal and bucco-lingual widths of premolars between sibling pairs.

Keywords

• mesiodistal tooth dimensions
• buccolingual tooth dimensions
• correlation coefficient