Validation of Roberts' method using root canal width patterns as a mandibular maturity marker in determining the...

Area of Science:

• Forensic Odontology
• Anthropology
• Radiology

Background:

• South African law defines a 'child' as under 18, a critical legal threshold.
• Accurate age estimation is vital for legal and forensic purposes.
• Dental development, particularly third molars, serves as a biological indicator for reaching adulthood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate Roberts' method for age estimation using relative root canal width (RCW) in South African populations.
• To assess the reliability of RCW as a growth marker for the 18-year legal threshold.
• To evaluate the applicability of this method across different ethnic groups in South Africa.

Main Methods:

• Dental panoramic radiographs of black and white South African individuals were analyzed.
• Roberts' method, focusing on relative width of distal root canals (RCW) of lower left permanent molars (FDI 36, 37, 38), was applied.
• Demirjian's developmental stages were used in conjunction with RCW categorization.

Main Results:

• The validation study confirmed Roberts' method's findings.
• Individuals with Demirjian stage H left molars and RCW category C were consistently identified as being over the 18-year threshold.
• The method demonstrated agreement across the studied populations.

Conclusions:

• Roberts' method, utilizing relative root canal width, is a valid adjunct for age estimation in South Africa.
• This dental marker supports the determination of the 18-year legal age threshold.
• The method should be used alongside other age assessment techniques for comprehensive evaluation.