Association of third molar maturity with estrogen receptors-encoding genes

Background: Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been linked to variations in dental development, influencing traits such as eruption timing. This study examined the association between third molar maturity and SNPs in genes encoding estrogen receptors alpha (ESR1) and beta (ESR2). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study design using a convenience sample of genomic DNA and orthodontic records of Brazilian children. Third molar maturity was calculated in panoramic radiographs using a dental age estimation method previously developed. A delta value (dental age-chronological age, DA-CA) was calculated in order to show whether the patient has a tendency toward normal third molar maturity, delayed third molar maturity (negative values), or advanced third molar maturity (positive values). DNA isolated from cells in saliva was used for genotyping four SNPs: 2234693 and rs9340799 in ESR1; and rs1256049 and rs4986938 in ESR2. Statistical analysis was made with p-values < 0.05 indicating statistical significance. Results: Eighty-nine children were included in the study, 49 (55.1%) were girls and 40 (44.9%) were boys. There was no statistical difference between sexes and third molar maturity (p > 0.05). For the SNP rs9340799 in the maxilla, patients carrying AA genotype exhibited significantly delayed maxillary third molars maturity (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Third molar maturity is associated with the SNP rs9340799 in ESR1. Our study supports that third molars development time is genetically influenced.

Dental development; Estrogen; Genes

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