Gender Determination by Radiographic Analysis of Mental Foramen and Mandibular Canal using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Abstract

Introduction: Gender identification is crucial in forensic science, especially during mass disasters. It can be achieved through morphological examination of teeth, skull, and soft tissues, and molecular analysis. Radiographic analysis of the mental foramen and mandibular canal in the western population of Maharashtra is used to evaluate gender determination. Aim: The study aims to determine gender in the western population of Maharashtra through Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) radiographic imaging of the mental foramen and mandibular canal. Methodology: The study used 260 CBCT images from the Department of Oral Medicine and radiology at KVVDU, Karad, and obtained ethical clearance from the Ethical committee. The images were analyzed using SPSS software and compared using an independent t-test, with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Results: A study of 260 CBCT images revealed that males had higher R-SMC and R-IMC on the right side, while females had higher R-SMC and R-IMC on the left side. Discussion: The study uses CBCT technology to identify gender differences in growth trajectory and location of the mental foramen in forensic science, highlighting factors like hormones, endocrinal stimulus, and population. Conclusion: The study suggests that C-IMFrt and CBCT analysis of the mental foramen and mandibular canal can aid in gender determination in forensic analysis, though further research is needed.