Analysis of the gender-identifying abilities of different odontometry methods - A Retrospective cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: It is critical to identify the person in a criminal investigation process. Forensic odontology helps in the identification of the person using dentofacial structures as a differentiating tool in the criminal justice system. Several oro-dental anatomical landmarks like palate, lips and bite marks, teeth such as maxillary central incisors, canines and molars have been used in the identification of the gender of an individual based on the principle of individuality.

Aims and objectives: Studying different odontometric methods such as palatal depth, mandibular canine index and maxillary inter-canine width for sex determination and compare it with the actual gender of an individual.

Methodology: For this study, 72 pairs of orthodontic study models were analysed for gender determination based on three odontometric parameters viz. palatal depth, mandibular canine index and maxillary inter-canine width. The patient’s sex was not disclosed to the investigators until the completion of the model analysis. The measurements were taken using brass wire, divider, stainless steel scale and digital vernier calliper. The data was calculated and tabulated in a master chart and statistical analysis was done.

Result: The results of odontometric measurement methods used for the gender determination study are in actual agreement with 32.6% male and 63.04% female population of Mumbai and the sub-urban region.

Conclusion: The palatal depth, maxillary inter-canine width and mandibular canine index are simple, convenient, reproducible and reliable odontometric methods in the gender determination of individuals.