Age estimation in adults by dental imaging assessment systematic review. (June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Marroquin, T.Y.; Karkhanis, S.; Kvaal, S.I.; Vasudavan, S.; Kruger, E.; Tennant, M.
• Is Part Of: Forensic science international. Volume 275(2017)
• Page Start: 203
• Page End: 211
• Publication Date: 2017-06
• Subjects: Forensic dentistry -- Adults -- Age estimation -- Dental imaging -- Systematic review; Medical jurisprudence -- Periodicals; Chemistry, Forensic -- Periodicals; Forensic Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine légale -- Périodiques; Chimie légale -- Périodiques; Gerechtelijke geneeskunde; Gerechtelijke chemie; Gerechtelijke psychiatrie; Chemistry, Forensic; Medical jurisprudence; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.03.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0379-0738

Abstract

Highlights: First systematic review about the most recent methods for age estimation in adults. Comparison of the accuracy of three different methods for age estimation in adults. Data report from all the papers reporting the use of these methods around the world. Abstract: Importance: The need to rely on proper, simple, and accurate methods for age estimation in adults is still a world-wide issue. It has been well documented that teeth are more resistant than bones to the taphonomic processes, and that the use of methods for age estimation based on dental imaging assessment are not only less invasive than those based on osseous analysis, but also have shown similar or superior accuracy in adults. Objectives: To summarise the results of some of the recently most recently cited methods for dental age estimation in adults, based on odontometric dental imaging analysis, to establish which is more accurate, accessible, and simple. Evidence review: A literature search from several databases was conducted from January 1995 to July 2016 with previously defined inclusion criteria. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this review, it could be possible to suggest pulp/tooth area ratio calculation from first, upper canines and other single rooted teeth (lower premolars, upper central incisors), and a specific statistical analysis that considers the non-linear production of secondary dentine with age, as a reliable, easy, faster, and predictable method for dental age estimation in adults. The second recommended method is the pulp/tooth width–length ratio calculation. The use of specific population formulae is recommended, but to include data of individuals from different groups of population in the same analysis is not discouraged. A minimum sample size of at least 120 participants is recommended to obtain more reliable results. Methods based on volume calculation are time consuming and still need improvement.