Raghav Latawa, Prashanth Kamath , Arun Kumar B.R , Rajat Scindhia , Raghuraj M.B ,
Sameera Reddy , Ruchi Gulati

ABSTRACT

Background- Origin and the gender have a definitive role to play in the growth and development of an individual. The Bolton’s ratio and arch width parameters are such parameter which are taken into consideration while treating malocclusion. A definite relationship between the two arches is often hampered due to the discrepancy in the above mentioned parameters. There are definite differences in the developmental milestones between the males and females, the malocclusions also do show differences when these parameters are considered. The reports based on the differences in these parameters based on the malocclusion, gender and ethnicity altogether are scanty and hence this must be taken into consideration as a part of research which can help orthodontist to render better treatment understanding of these core concepts. Aims and objectives-The aims and objectives of the present study were to determine and compare the anterior and overall Bolton’s ratios and arch width between Iranian and Indian population with Class I, Class II Division I and Class II Division II malocclusion and also determine the level of sexual dimorphism that exists. Materials and methods- A total of 40 cases were considered segregated as per the malocclusion, gender and the ethnic origin. The Bolton’s ratio and the arch width at the canine, premolar and molar region were measured to analyze the level of sexual dimorphism and differences among the population if it existed. The measurements were done twice in a span of two weeks by a single observer and the mean observations were considered to avoid intraobserver bias. The sum of the 12 teeth in both arches, the Bolton’s anterior and overall ratios, the intercanine width, interpremolars, and intermolar widths from all the measured points using Student’s t-test. Analysis of variance was used to determine whether significant differences existed between the groups. The statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 18(Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). Results- There was a definitive sexual dimorphism exhibited when both the population samples were considered together and it was statistically significant with p<0.001. There were some strong inclinations towards particular population that showed a higher value for the parameters when the males and females were considered separately but the observations were inconclusive with definitive reason and were statistically insignificant. Conclusion – Bolton’s ratio and arch width are definitive parameters that can render to treatment planning and can also aid as a forensic information as there are definitive differences exhibited by the genders. A careful record of the interarch relationships along with the above parameters can aid in better diagnosis and treatment planning.