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Chronological age estimation based on third molar development in a Portuguese population.
Inês Morais Caldas1, Paula Júlio, Ricardo Jorge Simões
1Dental Medicine Faculty of Porto University, Faculdade de Medicina Dentária da Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Manuel Pereira da Silva, 4200-393, Porto, Portugal. icaldas@fmd.up.pt
International Journal of Legal Medicine
|November 26, 2010
Summary
This study analyzed third molar development in a Portuguese population using orthopantomograms. Findings show a significant relationship between tooth development and chronological age, crucial for forensic age estimation.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Anthropology
- Dental Development
- Human Biology
Background:
- Accurate age estimation is vital in forensic science.
- Dental development, particularly third molars, is a reliable indicator of age.
- Population-specific data is necessary for precise forensic assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess third molar development stages in a Portuguese population.
- To establish reference data for chronological age estimation.
- To evaluate sex-based differences in tooth development rates.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 739 orthopantomograms from Portuguese individuals (ages 6.1-22.5).
- Application of the Demirjian eight-stage (A-H) method for tooth development assessment.
- Statistical evaluation of age, standard deviation, and percentile distribution for each developmental stage and sex.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant correlation (p < 0.0001) was found between third molar development and chronological age in both sexes.
- Detailed data on mean age, standard deviation, and age ranges for each developmental stage were determined.
- Formation rates of each tooth were calculated and expressed in percentiles, with sex-specific data provided.
Conclusions:
- The study provides population-specific reference data for third molar development in the Portuguese population.
- These findings support the utility of third molar development for forensic age estimation.
- The results underscore the importance of using localized data for accurate forensic applications.
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