Age Estimation from Pulp/Tooth Area Ratio Using Digital Panoramic Radiography

Background and Aim: To estimate the age in forensic identification, when none of the other identification methods are feasible, the teeth are used. The aim of the present study was to estimate the age from pulp/tooth area ratio (AR) by digital panoramic radiography in patients referred to a radiology clinic. Materials and Methods: In this diagnostic study, digital panoramic radiographs of 120 cases were assessed. The chronological age was calculated by subtracting the date of birth from the date of radiographs and the AR was calculated with "AutoCAD" software. Using the regression model, the age was estimated. In this study, the role of sex was also assessed. Results: The mean difference between the chronological and the estimated age was 0.11 years in male group. The correlation coefficient was -0.180 and the correlation between age and AR was not statistically significant (p= 0.169). The mean difference between the chronological and estimated age was 0.36 years in female group. Correlation coefficient was -0.336 and the correlation between age AR was significant (p= 0.004). Negative correlation indicates that AR decreases by aging. Conclusion: According to the results, AR cannot be used for age estimation alone; but it can be used in combination with other indices for this purpose.