Gender determination is the first step in forensic identification, followed by age and height determination, which are both affected by gender. This study assessed the accuracy of gender estimation using mandibular morphometric indices on panoramic radiographs of an Iranian population. This retrospective study evaluated 290 panoramic radiographs (145 males and 145 females). The maximum and minimum ramus width, coronoid height, condylar height, antegonial angle, antegonial depth, gonial angle, and the superior border of mental foramen were bilaterally measured as well as bicondylar and bigonial breadths using Scanora Lite. Correlation of parameters with gender was analyzed by univariate, multiple, and best models. All indices except for gonial angle were significantly different between males and females and can be used for gender determination according to univariate model. Condylar height, coronoid height, and superior border of mental foramen and ramus were still significantly greater in males than in females after controlling for the effect of confounders (p < 0.05). Based on the best model, a formula including five indices of bicondylar breadth, condylar height, coronoid height, minimum ramus width, and superior border of mental foramen was used for gender determination. Values higher than 56% indicate male gender, while lower values indicate female gender, with 81.38% specificity for correct detection of females and 88.97% sensitivity for correct detection of males. Despite the satisfactory results, future research should focus on larger populations to verify the accuracy of the present findings.

Background: Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) represents a qualitative developmental defect of the enamel that most commonly manifests in the permanent first molars, with possible extension to the permanent incisors. Several studies have investigated MIH across different regions of Iran. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the overall prevalence of MIH in Iran. Methods: Scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science, as well as Iranian databases including Magiran (Magiran.com) and Idml.research.ac.ir, were searched until April 2025. Studies with a cross-sectional design on the prevalence of MIH were included. To calculate the pooled prevalence, random effects models were used. Assessment of heterogeneity was performed using meta-regression and sensitivity analyses. Results: Fourteen eligible studies were included in the quantitative analysis. The pooled prevalence of MIH in Iran was calculated at 21.6% (95% CI, 15.5 to 27.7%). The prevalence was 23.5% (95% CI, 12.8 to 34.2%) in girls and 22.4% (95% CI, 15.9 to 24.9%) in boys. According to meta-regression, MIH prevalence increased with increasing age, but this was not statistically significant (P=0.518). Conclusion: We observed high heterogeneity in the reported prevalence of MIH among the primary studies. MIH is a widespread dental condition in Iran, with a pooled prevalence of 21.6%, which appears higher than the global prevalence. Therefore, it is necessary to improve dental healthcare providers’ awareness regarding this condition and to consider MIH during routine dental examinations.

Background: Hyperdontia and hypodontia are two tooth number anomalies that often cause esthetic and functional problems. Early detection is the key to more effective treatment. This research set out to estimate the aggregated prevalence of tooth number anomalies in Iran. Methods: International databases comprising PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science, and Iranian databases including Magiran (Magiran.com) and Idml.research.ac.ir were systematically searched for cross-sectional studies on the prevalence of hyperdontia and hypodontia until December 2025. The random effects model was used to derive the combined prevalence estimate of each anomaly. Meta-regression and sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the sources of heterogeneity. Results: The prevalence of each anomaly was estimated by the meta-analysis of 14 eligible studies regarding hyperdontia and 17 studies about hypodontia. The estimated prevalence of hyperdontia and hypodontia was 1.2% and 6.0% in Iran, respectively. Meta-regressions showed a significantly higher prevalence of hyperdontia in males, but hypodontia prevalence showed no association with sex. An insignificant reduction in the prevalence of both anomalies was noted over time. No significant correlation was found between age and hyperdontia, but hypodontia prevalence decreased with advancing age. In both anomalies, the maxilla was more involved than the mandible. Also, most patients with hypodontia had Angle’s class II malocclusion. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of hyperdontia and hypodontia was 1.2% and 6.0%, respectively, in the Iranian population. Moreover, considerable heterogeneity was observed in the prevalence of both anomalies.