Evaluation of sexual dimorphism in deciduous mandibular second molar: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Tooth size is an important factor that affects alignment of teeth in dental arch and development of occlusion. Although the morphology of tooth structure is similar in males and females, the size of the tooth may differ, as the tooth size can be determined by cultural, environmental, racial and genetic factors. Hence, this cross-sectional study was carried out to compare the sexual dimorphism by measuring the linear dimensions of mandibular deciduous second molar. METHODS: The study was conducted on 48 children, aged 5-8 years. The impressions were made and cast was obtained. The tooth size was measured with digital vernier caliper. The data obtained was then analyzed by unpaired t-test. RESULTS: The mesiodistal dimensions showed highly significant difference (P<0.001), whereas the buccolingual and cervico-occlusal dimensions showed no significant difference (P>0.05) thus, male children have significantly larger deciduous mandibular second molar when compared to female children. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of the study can be used as base and standard for measurement of mandibular deciduous second molar. The tooth size can also be a valuable tool for pediatric dentists and orthodontists in treating malocclusion, space management and operative dentistry.