Stature estimation using the odontometric measurements of the maxilla

Abstract

Stature is the height of an individual in an upright position. It is one of the key characteristics, which helps in defining any individual. Stature estimation is needed mostly in medicolegal cases where only a limited number of human fragments are left for forensic analysis. The teeth provide essential measurements that can be used to determine stature. The aim of the study is to find out whether the second maxillary interpremolar distance can be used to effectively estimate stature of individuals. For the study, the sample size taken was 60 (30 male and 30 females), and their second maxillary interpremolar distance was measured using a digital vernier caliper. The collected data were tabulated and statistical analysis was done using SPSS software (23), followed by linear regression. For male: Y = 178.65 − 1.09X, correlation coefficient, r = 0.05, For female: Y = 169.30 − 1.99X, correlation coefficient, r = 0.13. Since r < 0.2, there is no correlation between the interpremolar distance of the second maxillary premolar and the stature. From our study, we conclude that the interpremolar distance of the second maxillary premolar cannot be a reliable parameter for stature estimation in both genders.