Age estimation in an iranian population based on pulp/tooth area ratio (PTR)

Abstract

Estimation of age in individuals has received considerable attention in the forensic literature. Previous studies on age prediction have focused on histological parameters which are not feasible in living adults. Using dental radiographs to measure the amount of secondary dentin deposition seems to be appropriate for age estimation. The aim of the present study was to estimate the age of an Iranian population using panoramic radiographs. Panoramic radiographs of 112 Iranian patients, aged 20-70 were selected randomly and their pulp/tooth ratios were calculated. The sample population was divided into two groups of 48 and 64 subjects. Iranian formula was calculated for the first group and was applied to the second group. E, A, C and B parameters, related to the measurement of canine pulp area were shown to be capable of estimating age (E:r = -0.48, p<0.001) (A: r= -0.67, p<0.001) (C: r= -0.61, p<0.001) (B: r = -0.61, p<0.001). In addition in relation to the first premolar, A, C and B parameters were predictive for age (A: r = -0.34, p = 0.01) (C: r = -0.53, p<0.001) (B: r = -0.39, p = 0.006). Radiographic parameters of lateral incisor were unable to predict age. é Medwell Journals, 2014.