Role of Mandibular Canines in Sex Determination

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To establish the effectiveness of mandibular canine index in predicting sex in rajasthan population. Materials and Methods: 100 subjects belonging to rajesthan population (50 males; 50 females) in the age group of 17-25 yrs were included. Impressions were made with alginate and study models prepared with dental stone and living subjects Maximum mesiodistal diameter of mandibular canines and the linear distance between tips of mandibular canines were measured using a Vernier caliper. Observed mandibular canine index (MCIo) and standerd MCI was calculated as the ratio between the maximum mesiodistal width of mandibular canine and canine arc width. Results: Left canine exhibited greater sexual dimorphism i.e. 9.05% as compared with right canine i.e. 8.782%. Sex could be predicted correctly in approximately 80% of subjects examined. Conclusion: With the standard MCI it was possible to detect sex in the population of rajesthan to an extent of about 72%. Hence it is considered as a quick, easy and reproducible method for determining the sex of an individual.