Morphometric Analysis of the Sockets for the Upper Temporary Molar Teeth in Human Foetuses

Abstract

Foetal therapy has made foetal anatomy a promising field. Maxilla had been the core research attraction of many scientists. Alveolar arches, specially the maxillary one had been consistently the focus of attention for research workers due to its importance in dentistry. Twenty nine human foetuses were grouped into 1 (<24 weeks of ILL). II (25-30 weeks of ILL) and III (>30 weeks of IUL). Maxillae were dissected out and sockets were carefully cleaned. Sockets for the temporary molars, which also hold permanent premolars were measured with the help of Vernier callipers. Three parameters, i.e. maximum mesiodistal diameter,maxi mum transverse diameter and maximum depth were considered. Readings were analysed statistically by using Student's T test. Growth was maximum in group II for the mesiodistal diameter of the socket for 1st temporary molar but significant bilateral variation or sexual dimorphism was not found. A very high rate of growth (+63%) was noticed in group II foetuses. Contrary to mesiochstal values, transverse diameter showed significant higher values on left side in group II foetuses. Similarly in late foetuses of group III. values were significantly more in males than those in females. It might be reflecting the higher measurements in general in male adult skeleton compared to females. The increase in the depth was significantly higher in the last two groups but the rate was again more in group II (57%) than in group III (29%). Although no bilateral variations were noticed, the value was found to be higher in male than female in last foetal group. The values increased with great rate in both group II and III foetuses for the mesiodistal diameter of the socket for 2(nd) temporary molar. An unexpected increase in the mesiodistal readings of female socket was observed in group II. The values of transverse diameter showed a consistent increase i.e. a significant increase in group II and III foetuses, a pattern observed in mesiodistal diameters also. Values of transverse diameters were on a higher side as compared to the mesiodistal measurements. Group II foetuses showed some sexual dimorphism with a higher value in male with a p value of <0.01 The depths of the sockets for 2nd temporary molar teeth showed highly significant increase in group II (p<0.001). The higher values in male were again observed in larger foetuses of group III. Some of the striking features of our study were, 1.Spurt of growth leading to very high values in group II foetuses, 2. A mesiodistal compression in both the sockets i.e. for 1st and 2nd temporary molars, 3. No bilateral variations, highlighting the natural symmetry of face, 4. Higher values in males in late foetal group.