Palatoscopy or palatal rugoscopy is the study of palatal rugae. Palatal rugae were first described by Winslow in 1753. Palatal rugae have been considered relevant for human identification due to its unique for each individual. Aims and Objectives: Analyse the patterns of palatal rugae for number, size and shape on dental cast of 50 subjects and to compare the rugae patterns in males and females. Method: Palatal rugae were analysed by Lysell, Thomas and Kotze Classification. Conclusion: Within the limitations of the present study it may be concluded that rugae pattern are highly individualistic and can be used as a supplementary method for personal identification.

Keywords: Palatal Rugae; Shape; Size; Numbers; Gender.