Sexual dimorphism in the permanent maxillary first molar: a study of the Haryana population (India)

Abstract

Sexual identification of immature skeletal remains is still a difficult problem to solve in Forensic Anthropology. The aim was to evaluate the existence of sexual dimorphism in maxillary first molars. The base sample comprised 200 subjects (100 males and 100 females) aged 17–25 years. The buccolingual (BL) and mesiodistal (MD) diameters of maxillary first molars were measured using digital vernier calipers both intraorally and on study casts. Data was analyzed using Independent sample t-test and paired t-test. Results showed statistically significant sexual dimorphisms in male and female odontometric features. The mean values of the parameters were greater on the left side than on the right side. Amongst the intraoral group, the right maxillary first molar was found to exhibit the greatest sexual dimorphism (5.34%) in terms of buccolingual dimension. Amongst the study cast group, the left maxillary first molar was found to exhibit the greatest sexual dimorphism (5.54%) in terms of buccolingual dimension. The buccolingual dimensions exhibited greater sexual dimorphism than mesiodistal dimensions. Conclusion: sex determination from an incomplete skeleton or young children may be difficult and in such situations the odontometric features of the teeth can be of immense help in determining the sex.