Assessment and Correlation of Dactyloscopy, Cheiloscopy, and Rugoscopy Among Individuals With Different Skeletal Malocclusion—A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Objectives A probable association between dermatoglyphics and malocclusions related to skeletal discrepancy may exist as dermal ridges, and craniofacial structures develop from the same embryonic tissues during the same embryonic period. The study aims to assess and correlate the pattern of fingerprints, lip prints, and palatal rugae in individuals with malocclusions related to skeletal discrepancy. Materials and Methods The 180 samples collected in the study were divided into 3 groups based on cephalometric analysis into class I, II, and III malocclusion. The fingerprints, lip prints, and palatal rugae patterns were obtained for each participant and pattern analysis was done. Results Class I malocclusion with no skeletal discrepancy showed a statistically significant difference in the loop fingerprint patterns on all fingers except the first finger on the right and left hand, branched lip pattern, and straight palatal rugae pattern in primary rugae 1 and 4. Class II malocclusion related to skeletal discrepancy showed a statistically significant difference in the loop pattern on all fingers except in the fourth finger of the right hand which showed a whorl pattern, branched lip pattern, and straight palatal rugae pattern in primary rugae 1, 4, and 5. Class III malocclusion related to skeletal discrepancy showed a statistically significant difference in the loop pattern on all fingers except in the fourth finger of the right hand which showed an absence of arch pattern, vertical lip print pattern, and straight palatal rugae pattern in primary rugae 1. Conclusion Dermatoglyphics analysis can be used to indicate developing malocclusions related to skeletal discrepancies. at an early age, thereby aiding the development of treatment aiming to establish favorable occlusion. Prospective and various ethnic and racial-based studies would be valuable for the establishment of dermatoglyphic markers of malocclusion.