A Comparative Evaluation between Dermatoglyphic Patterns and the Permanent Molar Relationships – An Attempt to Predict the Future Malocclusions

Abstract

Background: Due to the similar duration of development, finding the dermatoglyphic patterns to predict malocclusions can help a pediatric dentist to attempt any necessary preventive and interceptive orthodontic therapies. Aim: To assess the correlation between different dermatoglyphic patterns with the permanent molar relationships. Materials and Methods: 300 children who are 14-16 years old with completely erupted 2nd permanent molars up to occlusal table were recruited and the pattern of molar terminal plane was recorded in the proforma. Finger prints of these subjects were recorded with ink and roller method. Forensic analyst analysed the prints and classified based on the classification given by Galton and also calculated the finger ridge count as given by Cummins and Midlo Statistical analysis used: Chi-Square test was applied to compare proportions between all the groups and also for gender comparison. Fisher’s exact test was used when any expected cell frequency of less than five were obtained. Paired t-Test and McNemar’s test were applied to compare values between right and left hand. Results: Class I children showed absence of arch pattern in thumb and little finger of left hand; and higher total finger ridge count in right hand when compared to left hand. Children with Class II molar relationship had a significant association with presence of arch pattern in thumb finger of left hand; and presence of whorl pattern in both left and right ring fingers. Class III had a significant association with presence of loop pattern in left thumb finger and little finger; absence of arch pattern in thumb of right hand. Conclusion: Dermatoglyphics can be a useful non-invasive analytical tool to predict malocclusions in permanent dentition and sometimes, to identify an individual. Further studies with larger sample size are required to provide an insight into its significant correlations.