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Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
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Exploring the sex-associated differences in molars fused roots
Maria Eduarda Nunis Locks1, Erika Calvano Küchler2, Leonardo Santos Antunes3
1Department of Dentistry and Post-Graduate Program on Health and Environment, Univille- University from the Joinville Region, Joinville, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
Summary
Females are significantly more likely to have fused molar roots than males, with a 3.4 times higher chance. This study highlights sex-associated differences in dental morphology, supporting sex-differential liability models for fused roots.
Area of Science:
- Dental Morphology
- Human Biology
- Anthropology
Background:
- Human sexual dimorphism influences various biological traits, including dental characteristics.
- Understanding sex-associated differences in dental development is crucial for anthropological and forensic studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential sex-associated differences in the occurrence of fused roots in permanent molars.
- To analyze the frequency and distribution of molar fused roots in relation to sex.
Main Methods:
- Panoramic radiographs of patients with all first and second permanent molars were analyzed.
- Fused roots were defined as molars with roots fused apical to the usual furcal position.
- Statistical analyses, including chi-square, Fisher's, and Mann-Whitney tests, were used to compare male and female groups (alpha=5%).
Main Results:
- A total of 1360 permanent molars were analyzed from 170 patients (84 males, 86 females).
- Fused roots were observed in 26.06% of individuals, with second maxillary molars being the most affected.
- Females exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of fused molar roots (OR=3.4, p=0.0008), with a female:male ratio of 2.5:1.
Conclusions:
- Permanent molar fused roots demonstrate significant sex-associated differences, with females being more frequently affected.
- The findings support the application of sex-differential liability models to explain variations in molar fused roots.
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