Radiographic Estimation of Chronological Age using Mineralization of Third Molars in Coastal Andhra, India

BACKGROUND Age estimation is an important factor in establishing the identity of a person. Among various techniques, dental age estimation is helpful in estimating the age in children above 16 years of age. Determination of age using developmental stages of teeth is more useful than using tooth eruption. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 550 orthopantomographs of 248 males and 302 females aged between 15 and 22 years were taken and evaluated by Demirjian's tooth mineralization stages. Statistical assessment was done using logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Complete apical closure of third molars was observed at the age of 20.4 years in 50% of males. Gender is also thought to influence mineralization and males showed early apical closure than females. Mean value testing is also done but showed influence of high and lower end age groups on age estimation. CONCLUSION Finally, we conclude that, though the exact age of a person cannot be determined, the Demirjian's stage at which 18 years of age is attained can be found out.