ABSTRACT
Context: The establishment of a correlation between tooth dimensions and body size is crucial within the realm of forensic odontology. While numerous investigations have focused on the association between tooth morphology or width and stature, limited reports exist regarding the correlation between overall body structure or build and odontogenic parameters. This study focuses on finding a correlation between inter-arch dimensions and the body build of an individual. Aims: This study aimed to examine the potential correlation between an individual's somatotype (body build) and the measurements of inter-canine and inter-premolar maxillary arch widths. Study Settings: Dayananda Sagar College of Dental Sciences. Study Design: A cross-sectional study. Methods and Material: The sample size of the study was 153 individuals aged 18-25 years. Impressions for the maxillary arch were taken, study models were made and inter-arch measurements were taken using a digital Vernier calliper. For body build measurements, Heath-Carter somatotype measuring technique was used. The collected data were entered into an Excel sheet, and statistical analysis was done. Statistical Analysis Used: Principal component analysis. Results: On using principal component analysis, it was seen that there exists no correlation between body build of an individual when compared to inter-canine and inter-premolar distances. Conclusions: While no positive correlation has been seen between the odontometric parameters and specific body type, it can be argued that this can be due to the cited limitations of the study. Hence, we conclude with the note that a more detailed study would offer more viable and credible results.
ABSTRACT
Context: The study of palatal rugae forms an important basis of human identification, especially due to mass disasters where routinely used techniques may not be helpful. Aims: This study aimed at evaluating the palatal rugae and incisive papilla on the basis of shape. Settings and Design: The study was conducted in 280 individuals (males and females) among dental students of Dayananda Sagar College of Dental Sciences. Materials and Methods: The study included 280 students from Dayananda Sagar College and out-patients from the orthodontics department. Pictures of rugae and the incisive papilla were taken from individuals aged 10-36 using a camera, mirror, and lighting. Two investigators analysed the shape of the rugae and incisive papilla using classification systems by Thomas and Kotze, and Ortman and Tsao, respectively. Statistical Analysis Used: The data were statistically analysed using SPSS 20.0 software, and a significance level of P ≤ 0.05 was used. Results: The results suggested that rugae showing a wavy shape were the most common pattern in both the genders. Significant differences were observed in the curved rugae type between males and females. In incisive papillae evaluation, the pear shape was the most common, with the triangular shape being the least common. Conclusions: It can be concluded that evaluation of palatal rugae along with the incisive papilla can be an important tool for identification of an individual and for evaluating various ethnic populations.
