Applicability of odontometric dimensions and indices in sexual dimorphism among Nalgonda population

BACKGROUND: Teeth morphology varies among different population groups as they are exposed to various environmental conditions. Teeth being the most stable and hard tissue, human identification can be made when the other tissues are unavailable. Odontometric analysis can be considered for anthropological and forensic investigations. AIM: The aim of this study is to assess the reliability of odontometric mesiodistal (MD) width dimensions and indices in sexual dimorphism among Nalgonda population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 180 ideal study dental models of patients between the age range of 18 and 25 years were collected from the Department of Orthodontics. Selection criteria include teeth with Class I molar and canine relation, free of anomalies, or caries. Maximum MD widths of all teeth and arch parameters (intercanine width, interpremolar width, and intermolar width) were measured and incisor index, canine index, premolar index, and molar index were calculated. Sexual dimorphism was calculated using Garn and Lewis equation. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The recorded data were subjected to statistical analysis using independent unpaired t-test. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Mandibular canines followed by maxillary canines showed greater sexual dimorphism among all teeth. Maxillary right canine index, mandibular left canine index, maxillary right incisor index, inter premolar and intermolar widths showed statistically significant difference between males and females (P < 0.05). The results of this study revealed significant sexual dimorphism with the use of odontometric dimensions, canine index, incisor index, and arch parameters. These parameters could be used as adjunctive aids by the forensic expertise in human identification.