Anterior Teeth Measurement among Subjects in the University of Port Harcourt as a Sex Indicator and Aid to Maxillofacial Reconstruction

ABSTRACT

Background: The aim of this study is to determine sexual dimorphism using anterior teeth measurements and its use as an ancillary tool for sexual determination. Methods:In this study, the measurements of the anterior teeth were carried out on one hundred and forty students (80M 60F) of the University of Port-Harcourt ranging from 15-30 years. The mesiodistal diameter of the central and lateral incisors, right and left canines and their inter-canine distance were measured. These measurements were done with the aid ofa digital Vernier caliper. Also, the percentages of sexual dimorphism were calculated. The values were subjected to statistical analysis.Results:The mean mesiodistal central incisor (MDCI) value for males was 9.78 ± 0.47mm while that of the females was 9.29±0.46mm. The mean mesiodistal lateral incisor (MDLI) value for males was 7.80 ±0.54mm while that of the females was 7.40±0.54mm. The mean mesiodistal right canine (MDRC) value for males was 7.43±0.49mm while that of the females was 7.04±0.40mm. The mean mesiodistal left canine (MDLI) value for males was 7.39±0.51mm while that of the females was 7.03±0.55mm. The mean mandibular inter-canine distance (MICD) value for males was 33.73±1.15mm while that of the females was 32.23±0.98mm. They were all statistically significantat p<0.05.Conclusion:It can be concluded that the incisors and the canines are useful tools in sex determination. The data obtained can be useful in maxillofacial reconstructive surgery