RESUMEN
Objective: To identify specific predominant rugoscopy and dactyloscopy patterns in children associated with malocclusion and dental caries for the predilection of malocclusion and dental caries. Material and Methods: 800 children between 8-16 years were screened and among them, 150 were who met inclusion criteria were selected and divided into 2 Groups. Based on Angle's malocclusion, Group 1 (n = 90) was subdivided into Group 1A (30 - Class I), 1B (30 - Class II) and 1C (30 - Class III). Based on DMFT, Group 2 (n = 60) were subdivided as Group 2A (30 - Caries free) and 2B (30 - Caries active). Both Groups had an equal distribution of boys and girls. Finger and palm prints were analyzed using Cummins and Midlo; rugae patterns were analyzed using Thomas and Kotze classification. The obtained data were subjected to statistical analysis using Chi-square test. Results: Based on dermatoglyphics, predominant loop pattern was observed in all the subgroups of Group 1 (1A, 1B and 1C). Based on rugae pattern, predominant wavy pattern in Group 1A and curved pattern in both 1B and 1C were observed. In Group 2, loop dermatoglyphic pattern and wavy rugae pattern were predominant in Groups 2A and 2B. Atd angle was highest in Groups 1A (41.60) and 2B (42.36). Gender distribution showed curved pattern of palatal rugae in Group 2B (Caries active) females. Statistical significance was seen in dactyloscopy and rugoscopy patterns among both Group I and Group II (p<0.05). Conclusion: The curved rugae pattern in Group 1B and 1C can be considered as a predictor in Class II and Class III malocclusions. Gender differentiation showed predominant curved pattern in females of Group 2B (Caries active).