Age Estimation Using Maxillary Central Incisor Analysis on Cone Beam Computed Tomography Human Images

Area of Science:

• Forensic Dentistry
• Anthropology
• Radiology

Background:

• Dental age estimation is crucial for human identification in forensic dentistry.
• Secondary dentin deposition alters tooth anatomy, serving as a key parameter for age assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop regression equations for adult age estimation using linear measurements and ratios from maxillary central incisors.
• To evaluate the efficacy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in dental age determination.

Main Methods:

• Utilized multiplanar measurements (sagittal, coronal, axial) from 373 CBCT scans of upper central incisors.
• Performed one-way ANOVA and multivariate linear regressions for age estimation.
• Analyzed both linear measurements and ratios derived from tooth slices.

Main Results:

• Equations derived from axial linear measurements and ratios showed standard errors of the estimate (SEE) of ±10.9 and ±10.8 years, respectively.
• Multiplanar linear measurements yielded a SEE of ±10.9 years (R² = 0.52), while multiplanar ratios resulted in a SEE of ±10.7 years (R² = 0.51).
• Horizontal measurements, especially pulp measurements, demonstrated improved accuracy in age estimation equations.

Conclusions:

• CBCT-based measurements of upper central incisors offer an acceptable method for adult age estimation.
• The study validates the use of CBCT in forensic odontology for age assessment.
• Horizontal and pulp measurements significantly contribute to more accurate dental age estimation.