Association between Hormonal Fingerprints (2D:4D Ratio) and Anxiety of the Children under Dental Settings – A Cross Sectional Study

The 2D:4D ratio, often referred to as the "hormonal fingerprint," represents the proportional difference between the lengths of the index and ring fingers. This sexually dimorphic physical marker serves as a proxy for investigating the link between prenatal hormone exposure and various behavioral outcomes. Generally, a higher ratio indicates an increased presence of estrogen, whereas a lower ratio is associated with higher levels of testosterone (rather than progesterone) during fetal development.

Aim – To evaluate 2D:4D digit ratio correlates with levels of dental anxiety in pediatric patients undergoing dental treatment.

Materials and Methods – This study evaluated 297 children (ages 6–12) at a pediatric dental clinic. Digital calipers measured 2D:4D ratios, categorizing participants into groups (<1 and ≥1). Behaviour was recorded using Frankl's scale, with data analysed via SPSS 23.0 using Pearson's correlation and independent t-test to correlate hormonal markers with clinical dental anxiety.

Results – The mean age was 7.8 years. No significant correlation was found between 2D:4D ratio and FBRS scores (r = 0.07, p = 0.24). Mean 2D:4D ratios did not differ significantly between cooperative and uncooperative groups (p = 0.32).

Conclusion – The study found no significant association between the 2D:4D digit ratio, considered a hormonal fingerprint, and children's cooperative behavior as measured by FBRS scores. The results suggest that the 2D:4D ratio does not predict behavioral pattern in children.

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