Assessment of Condyle-Sigmoid-Coronoid triangle, Gonial angle for age estimation and sex determination: A retrospective Orthopantomograph study

Background: Due to its sexual dimorphism, the mandible-a vital component of the human skull-is a valuable tool for sex determination in anthropological and forensic studies. Radiographs like an Orthopantomogram are quite useful in this regard for precise age and sex estimation. An essential component of the craniofacial complex, the mandibular angles provide information about the symmetry and vertical characteristics. Variations in the Condylar, Coronoidal, Sigmoidal, and Gonial angles have been observed with age, sex, and even dental status, as verified by radiographic and anthropometric research. Aim: To evaluate Condylar angle, Sigmoidal angle, and Coronoidal angle by devising the Condyle-Sigmoid-Coronoid [CSC] Triangle along with the Gonial angle for sex determination and age estimation on a mandible devoid of teeth. Materials and methods: 200 Orthopantomograph images were attained, categorised into Group I and Group II, which consisted of males and females with ages ranging from 10 to 80 years, respectively. The CSC Triangle was devised by joining the highest point on these landmarks. Results: The Condylar angle, Coronoidal angle, Sigmoidal angle composing the CSC triangle and the Gonial angle bilaterally were comparable between males and females with no statistically significant differences. The Condylar and coronoid angle had a higher score on the left side with the data demonstrating statistically significant results. The Sigmoidal angle and the Gonial angle were comparable between the right and left sides. Conclusion: Based on the statistical analysis, the difference noted with respect to the measured parameters indicates that these angles can help in sex determination and age estimation.