Rugoscopy as a Supplement Tool for Profile Generation in Barwala Region, Panchkula (Haryana)

Accurate age and sex estimation is critical in forensic investigations. Dentition and palatal rugae patterns are two anatomical structures offering potential markers for personal identification. This study aimed to estimate age based on the eruption of permanent teeth and assess gender differences using rugoscopy in individuals from the Barwala region of Haryana.

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 320 healthy dentulous individuals aged 10–24 years with known age proof (Adhaar card) attending the outpatient department at Swami Devi Dyal Dental Hospital and College, Barwala, Panchkula (Haryana). Clinical evaluation of tooth eruption followed the FDI notation system. Age estimation was based on Wheeler’s eruption chronology. Maxillary impressions were used to create study casts, and palatal rugae were analyzed for number, length, and shape. Data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS v1.0.0.1406.

The estimated age matched actual age in 78 participants, while 94 showed an overestimation of 1 year, and 144 showed underestimation of 1–4 years. Females exhibited earlier eruption of third molars compared to males. Rugae counts were higher in males (1450) than in females (1376), with males exhibiting more secondary and fragmentary rugae. Males showed longer primary rugae, while females had slightly longer secondary rugae. Common rugae shapes observed were curved and straight in both sexes, with wavy forms more common in females.

Permanent tooth eruption is a reliable method for age estimation in individuals under 25 years, though slight overestimation was observed. Rugoscopy demonstrated significant sex-based differences and may serve as a supplementary tool in forensic sex identification.