Sex determination using mesiodistal dimension of permanent maxillary incisors and canines

BACKGROUND: Sexual dimorphism refers to the differences in size, shape, etc., between males and females. The dentition's use in sex assessment has been explored and advocated owing to its strength and resistance to peri- and post-mortem insults. OBJECTIVES: The study evaluated permanent maxillary incisors and canines for sexual dimorphism and estimated the level of accuracy with which they could be used for sex determination. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted on 100 subjects (50 males, 50 females). The mesiodistal dimension of permanent maxillary incisors and canines was measured and the data were subjected to statistical analysis. RESULT: Univariate analysis revealed that all permanent maxillary incisors and canines exhibited larger mean values of mesiodistal dimension in males compared to females but only canines were found to be statistically significant for sexual dimorphism. CONCLUSION: The study showed maxillary canines exhibiting significant sexual dimorphism and can be used for sex determination along with other procedures.