Multiple methods of dentin translucency for age estimation

Abstract

Background: Age estimation is an essential part of forensic odontology and many methods are available with variable accuracy. However, the research is going on to find the simple and most reliable method. Objectives: By measuring the length and area of root dentin translucency in extracted tooth specimens manually and digitally, and comparing them, this study aims to find the most reliable technique of age assessment. Materials and Methods: One-hundred and twenty-five single-rooted extracted human permanent teeth were selected for the study. In both unsectioned and sectioned teeth, the total length of root dentin translucency was manually measured using a digital vernier caliper. Then, in a ground-sectioned tooth specimen, the total length and area of root dentin translucency were measured digitally using a scanner scale and computer software. Both the methods were compared. Results: In both manual and digital approaches, the length and area of root dentin translucency grew with age, from younger to older age groups. On comparing the measurements, the correlation coefficient was somewhat higher for digital area measurements than other measurements (r = 0.985). Conclusion: The digital technique outperforms the traditional way for calculating age, and furthermore, measuring the area in the digital method for age estimation has shown to be more accurate.

Keywords

• age estimation
• dentin translucency
• digital scanner
• forensic odontology
• vernier caliper