Association of Hormonal Fingerprints and Dental Caries: A Pilot Study

CONTEXT: Dental caries remains the most widespread oral disease among all age groups. Hormonal fingerprints (second digit: fourth digit ratio or 2D:4D ratio) are biomarkers displaying sexual dimorphism and diverse human phenotypic traits. A person's genetic makeup may influence the occurrence of dental caries. AIM: The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of digit ratio on the incidence of dental caries. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Two hundred patients between 18 and 55 years, reporting for restorations or endodontic therapy, participated in the study. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Hormonal fingerprints (2D:4D ratio) were measured with the help of a digital vernier caliper. Caries incidence was recorded using the DMFT index. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Data obtained were tabulated and statistically analyzed using Independent t-test and Chi-square test. RESULTS: Males had a less mean 2D:4D ratio than females, which was statistically significant (p-value = 0.003). Chi-square test was applied, and there was a statistically significant correlation between high digit ratio and caries experience (p-value = 0.002). Females with a high digit ratio and males with a low digit ratio were in the moderate and low caries risk groups with a p-value of 0.029 and 0.001 in the respective risk groups. CONCLUSION: The present study displayed a correlation between hormonal fingerprints (2D:4D ratio) and dental caries. An indicator of caries risk will help prevent caries by implementing oral hygiene measures, which will reduce its incidence as the most occurring oral disease.