Sex & Race Determination from Teeth
Sex Determination
- Barr body (sex chromatin, inactivated X) — present in females; can be assessed in cells.
- Male teeth are generally larger; the mandibular canine index is used as a sexing aid.
- Amelogenin gene analysis (X vs Y) gives reliable molecular sexing.
Race/Ancestry Clues
- Shovel-shaped incisors — associated with Mongoloid populations.
- Cusp of Carabelli — more frequent in Caucasians.
- Other crown/cusp traits vary by population.
Exam Tips ⭐
Barr body = female; mandibular canine index for sex; shovel incisors = Mongoloid; Carabelli more in Caucasians.