Age Determination in Children Using Camirere's Indian Specific Formula: A Radiographic Study Using Orthopantomographs

Determination of age is a pivotal part of forensic dentistry. Since many dental age determination methods are invasive, Cameriere introduced a radiographic method where age evaluation was carried out using an orthopantomogram (OPG). An adaptation of the same formula was later formulated by Rai et al. for the Indian population. The aim of the study was to assess the age and to dictate the efficiency of the Indian version of Cameriere's formula in the Chennai subpopulation.

This study consisted of radiographs belonging to 50 individuals with an age range of 5-15 years. Radiographs were taken using the OPG and the soft copies obtained were analyzed. The variables such as seven left and right permanent mandibular teeth and the number of teeth with closed apical, and with open apical, ends of roots were examined and measured. The obtained data, after substituting in the formula was statistically analyzed using paired and unpaired t-test and Pearson's correlation coefficient test.

On comparing dental age and chronological age, statistically significant results were obtained on both sides of the radiograph. Between genders, both sides of the radiograph showed non-significant results. On correlating the sides, the left side showed greater accuracy in age determination compared to the right side of the OPG.

Age estimation using Indian-specified formula provides a near good estimate and hence can be a reliable method to measure the chronological age of the participants.

The Indian version of the Cameriere's formula can be used as a rational tool to assess the age of young children and adolescents.