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Age estimation by pulp-to-tooth area ratio using cone-beam computed tomography: A preliminary analysis
Arpita Rai1, Ashith B Acharya2, Venkatesh G Naikmasur3
1Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India.
Background:
Age estimation of living or deceased individuals is an important aspect of forensic sciences. Conventionally, pulp-to-tooth area ratio (PTR) measured from periapical radiographs have been utilized as a nondestructive method of age estimation. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a new method to acquire three-dimensional images of the teeth in living individuals.
Aims:
The present study investigated age estimation based on PTR of the maxillary canines measured in three planes obtained from CBCT image data.
Settings And Design:
Sixty subjects aged 20-85 years were included in the study.
Materials And Methods:
For each tooth, mid-sagittal, mid-coronal, and three axial sections-cementoenamel junction (CEJ), one-fourth root level from CEJ, and mid-root-were assessed. PTR was calculated using AutoCAD software after outlining the pulp and tooth.
Statistical Analysis Used:
All statistical analyses were performed using an SPSS 17.0 software program.
Results And Conclusions:
Linear regression analysis showed that only PTR in axial plane at CEJ had significant age correlation (r = 0.32; P < 0.05). This is probably because of clearer demarcation of pulp and tooth outline at this level.
