Dental age estimation using the radiographic visibility of periodontal ligament around lower third molars among selected Nigerians

Abstract

Background: Age estimation for sporting activities, legal age determination and migration purpose is oftentimes essential, which makes  the need for a scientifically proven method of age estimation an important aspect of medical practice. Forensic odontology is an essential  aspect of forensic practice and may be a veritable tool in age estimation.

Aim and Objective: The objective of this study was to  evaluate the usefulness of orthopantomograms (OPG) in age estimation among selected Nigerians.

Methodology: A retrospective  assessment of 202 OPGs was done to review the visibility of the periodontal ligament of third molars with completed root formation  according to the methods described by Olze et al (2010). Individual ages were then calculated by deducting date of exposure from the  date of birth recorded in years. Mean age with standard deviation were calculated for each group.

Results: Assessing the minimum and  maximum age at which each of the stages of the radiographic visibility of the periodontal ligament as seen on the OPGs revealed that  there was a gradual increase in the age at which the stage increment occurred, with a few exceptions. Comparison of the radiographic  visibility of the periodontal ligament revealed that males tend to achieve early periodontal visibility stages compared to females, but the  reverse was observed in later stages. Age 17 is more than likely attained in any person found within stages 1 to 3 as the minimum age  found in these stages were above 17 years.

Conclusion: With a few exceptions, the assessment of periodontal ligament visibility on OPGs  can adequately predict the age of individuals. Thus, the use of this method may need to be combined with other methods in accurate    determination of dental age in instances of forensic age estimation.