Correlation between 2D:4D Ratio (Hormonal Fingerprints) and Dermatoglyphics with Dental Caries and Malocclusion among Undergraduate Dental Students of Bhubaneswar City: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Early identification of genetic and developmental predispositions to dental caries and malocclusion is vital and non-invasive markers such as the 2D:4D ratio (Second finger: Fourth finger Ratio) and dermatoglyphics may provide a simple, cost-effective tool for risk assessment. Aim: The present study aimed to determine the correlation between the 2D:4D ratio (hormonal fingerprints) and dermatoglyphic patterns with dental caries and malocclusion among undergraduate dental students in Bhubaneswar City, Odisha, India. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted among 259 undergraduate dental students at Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, from June to August 2024. Participants who were present during data collection and provided informed consent were included. Dental caries and malocclusion were assessed using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) II and Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI), respectively, through a Type III clinical examination. The 2D:4D digit ratio was measured with vernier calipers, and dermatoglyphic patterns were analysed from fingerprint impressions. Statistical analysis involved the Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and Spearman’s correlation, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Among the 259 dental students, 163 (62.93%) had dental caries, and 220 (84.94%) showed normal or minor malocclusion. A low 2D:4D ratio (<1) was seen in 197 (76.06%) of the students. Caries was significantly associated with low 2D:4D ratios (69.94%, p=0.003), while higher malocclusion severity was linked to high ratios (94.59%, p<0.001). Loops were the most common fingerprint pattern among those with caries (p<0.0001), although no significant link was found with malocclusion. The 2D:4D ratio showed a moderate negative correlation with loops (ρ=-0.3765, p=0.0038) and a positive correlation with whorls (ρ=0.3903, p=0.0074). Conclusion: The study found significant associations between 2D:4D ratios, dermatoglyphic patterns, and dental conditions, suggesting potential links between genetic and developmental factors and oral health. While these findings highlight meaningful correlations, predictive conclusions cannot be drawn due to the exploratory nature of the analysis.