Reliability of Mandibular Canine Index on Gender Determination

– Forensic odontology plays a important  role in the identification of individuals, particularly in situations where bodies are disfigured or decomposed. This study aimed to assess sexual dimorphism using the mesiodistal width and intercanine distance of mandibular canines in a sample population from Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh. A total of 120 dental cast samples (60 males and 60 females), aged 15–70 years, were examined. Measurements of the right and left mandibular canine widths and intercanine distances were taken using a sliding vernier caliper. Mandibular canine indices (MCI) were calculated, and statistical analysis was performed to assess gender differences. The results revealed that males exhibited significantly greater mesiodistal widths and intercanine distances compared to females. The left mandibular canine demonstrated more sexual dimorphism than the right. Overall, the study confirmed the utility of mandibular canines, particularly their width and intercanine distance, as reliable parameters for sex determination in forensic cases. These findings can aid in personal identification during forensic investigations, especially in mass disaster scenarios..