Abstract

ALMEIDA JUNIOR, ERASMO DE et al. Analysis of intercanine distance with reference to gender and its application in the identification and interpretation of bite marks. RPG, Rev. pós-grad. [online]. 2012, vol.19, n.1, pp. 14-20. ISSN 0104-5695.

Among the several functions of the Odontolegist is the identification and interpretation of bite marks. The objective of this study was to analyze the intercanine distance in relation to gender, as well as to assess the reliability and validity of the methodology used in this study. The population chosen comprised 600 adult subjects, being 300 males and 300 females. These measurements were performed on dental casts, with the aid of a digital precision calliper, and the cusp tips of the canines as reference points. The results showed that males had a higher average intercanine distance than the females. By discriminate analysis, error rates were found to be 42.22% for the females and 37.33% for the males, with a total error rate of 39.78%. Logistic regression demonstrated an association between estimated probability and observed response of about 25%. The methodology used presented a 99.87% reliability index. It can be concluded that data obtained will contribute to further relevant studies.

Keywords : Forensic dentistry; Cuspid; Sex.