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Sexual dimorphism in mesiodistal dentin and enamel thickness
J L Stroud1, P H Buschang, P W Goaz
1Baylor College of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas.
Dento Maxillo Facial Radiology
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Sexual dimorphism in mandibular tooth size is significant, with males exhibiting larger mesiodistal diameters than females. This difference is attributed to thicker dentin, not enamel, in males.
Area of Science:
- Anthropology
- Dentistry
- Human Biology
Background:
- Sexual dimorphism influences human skeletal morphology.
- Understanding tooth size variation is crucial in forensic and anthropological studies.
- Mandibular posterior dentition exhibits distinct growth patterns between sexes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate sexual dimorphism in mesiodistal diameter, enamel thickness, and dentin thickness of permanent posterior mandibular teeth.
- To elucidate the specific dental tissues contributing to sexual dimorphism in tooth size.
- To enhance understanding of variations in mesiodistal tooth dimensions.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of bitewing radiographs from 59 males and 39 females (20-35 years).
- Digitalized measurements of mesiodistal diameter, enamel thickness, and dentin thickness of mandibular premolars and molars.
- Statistical analysis to determine significant sex differences (p < 0.01).
Main Results:
- Significant sexual dimorphism observed in mesiodistal diameter, with males having larger teeth (p < 0.01).
- Dimorphism was more pronounced in molars compared to premolars.
- Dentin thickness showed significant sexual dimorphism (males > females), while enamel thickness did not.
Conclusions:
- Sexual dimorphism in mandibular posterior tooth size is primarily driven by differences in dentin thickness.
- Enamel thickness does not significantly contribute to observed sexual dimorphism in mesiodistal tooth dimensions.
- Findings provide insights into the biological basis of tooth size variation between sexes.