Age Determination in Children Using Camirere’s Indian Specific Formula: A Radiographic Study Using Orthopantomographs

Abstract

Background and Aim: Determination of age is a pivotal part of forensic dentistry. Since many dental age determination methods are invasive, Cameriere introduced a radiographic method where age evaluation was carried out using orthopantomogram. An adaptation of the same formula was later formulated by Rai et al for the Indian population. The aim of the study was to assess the age and to dictate the efficiency of the Indian-version of Cameriere’s formula in the Chennai subpopulation.

Methodology: The current study consisted of radiographs belonging to 50 individuals with an age range of 5-15 years. Radiographs were taken using the orthopantomogram and the soft copies obtained were analysed. The variables such as seven left and right permanent mandibular teeth, the number of teeth with closed apical and with open apical ends of roots were examined and measured. The obtained data, after substituting in the formula was statistically analysed using paired and unpaired t test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient test.

Results: On comparing dental age and chronological age, statistically significant results were obtained on both sides of the radiograph. Between genders, both the sides of the radiograph showed non-significant results. On correlating the sides, the left side showed greater accuracy in age determination compared to the right side of the OPG. Conclusion: Age estimation using Indian-specified formula provides a near good estimate and hence can be a reliable method to measure the chronological age of the participants.