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Forensic performance of dental age estimation methods at legal age thresholds in Latin America: a scoping review
Ivana Rodríguez1,2,3, Jennifer Ann Oña3,4, J Ignacio Armanino5
1Department of Introduction to Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, National University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Argentina.
Purpose:
Dental age estimation (DAE) is a central component of forensic odontology (FO), particularly in contexts in which legally defined age thresholds determine criminal responsibility. Given the population-related variability in dental development, the use of methods validated in the target population is essential. This scoping review aims to identify and synthesize DAE methods applied to Latin American (LATAM) populations over the past decade, with a specific emphasis on their forensic performance at legally significant thresholds of 14, 16, and 18 years.
Methods:
A scoping review was conducted according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, and Redalyc databases were searched for full-text articles published between 2014 and 2024. Eligible studies applied DAE methods to LATAM populations in children, adolescents, or young adults and reported outcomes relevant to at least one predefined legal age threshold. Data were charted on population characteristics, imaging modalities, methods applied, and reported performance at the thresholds of interest.
Results:
Sixty-three studies were included. Brazil accounted for the highest research output, followed by Chile and Peru, with most studies relying on panoramic radiographs (PRs). Demirjian-based approaches were the most frequently applied, whereas Cameriere's third molar maturity index (I3M) and Willems' method demonstrated comparatively better performance at specific thresholds. Across countries and methods, the ages of 14, 16, and 18 years consistently showed the greatest estimation error and variability, limiting their reliability for binary medico-legal decision-making.
Conclusion:
Although recent LATAM research reflects increasing methodological diversity and population-specific validation efforts, substantial uncertainty persists regarding legally decisive age thresholds. Current DAE methods frequently fall short of the accuracy required for forensic and judicial applications, underscoring the need for cautious interpretation and further refinement, focusing on performance-based forensic criteria.
