Age estimation by volumetric analysis of teeth using cone beam computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Forensic dentistry
• Dental imaging
• Anthropology

Background:

• Accurate age estimation is crucial in forensic and clinical contexts.
• Dental metrics offer a reliable method for age assessment.
• Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides detailed 3D imaging of teeth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of using the pulp volume to total volume ratio (Pv:Tv) from CBCT scans for age estimation.
• To evaluate this method in a Brazilian population sample of single-rooted teeth.

Main Methods:

• CBCT scans from 517 single-rooted teeth (incisors, canines, premolars) of individuals aged 18-82 were analyzed.
• Pulp volume (Pv) and total volume (Tv) were measured using semi-automatic segmentation software.
• Statistical analysis, including correlation and regression, was performed to determine the relationship between Pv:Tv ratio and chronological age.

Main Results:

• A strong negative correlation (r > -0.7) was found between chronological age and the Pv:Tv ratio across all tooth types.
• Linear regression analysis showed that the Pv:Tv ratio explained approximately 64% of the variance in chronological age for mandibular first premolars.
• The distribution of Pv:Tv data was normal only for mandibular first premolars.

Conclusions:

• The Pv:Tv ratio derived from CBCT scans is a feasible and reproducible method for estimating chronological age in the studied Brazilian population.
• This dental imaging technique offers a valuable tool for age assessment in forensic and clinical settings.