Precision through Cone-Beam Computed Tomography: Forensic and Clinical Evaluation of Sexual Dimorphism through Mandibular Canal and Mental Foramen Among Lucknow Population

Background: This study uses cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to analyze mandibular canal and mental foramen differences between sexes, providing radiomorphometric data valuable for forensic identification and improving clinical outcomes through precise sex-based anatomical insights. Objective: To perform a radiomorphometric analysis of the mandibular canal and mental foramen through CBCT to determine sexual dimorphism. Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted in the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, analyzed 102 CBCT scans (51 males, 51 females) aged between 18 and 30 years. Morphometric parameters were measured and statistically assessed ( P < 0.05). Results: Sexual dimorphism was found, with males showing larger dimensions. The mental foramen (MF) width was significantly larger in males (mm) compared to females (mm, P = 0.001). The mandibular canal (MC) superior distance (SMaC) and inferior distance (IMaC) were also significantly greater in males (SMaC: mm vs. mm, P = 0.001; IMaC: mm vs. mm, P = 0.003). The novel SMaC–SMeF metric (difference between MC superior and MF superior distance) was significantly larger in males (mm) than females (mm, P = 0.05). The MF position (mostly Type IV) showed no gender variation. Conclusion: CBCT demonstrated that male mandibular dimensions were larger, and the stable MF position aids in accurate procedures. These findings provide superior precision over traditional methods for forensic and dental insights.