Age Estimation Based on Tooth Morphometric Parameters From Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Scans in an Iranian Population

Background: Age determination plays an important role in forensic medicine. This study aimed to evaluate the precision of age estimation based on pulp chamber dimensions using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans in an Iranian population. Methods: In this diagnostic study, CBCT scans of 85 males and 95 females, all over 12 years of age, were retrieved from the archives of a radiology clinic in Ardabil, Iran. The study included a total of 180 teeth. All CBCT scans were obtained using the ProMax 3D scanner. The Kvaal’s parameters were measured on CBCT scans for maxillary central and lateral incisors, second premolars, and mandibular lateral incisors, canines, and first premolars. The Kvaal’s regression formula was then applied for age estimation. Next, a new regression model was developed for the study population, and its accuracy in estimating age underwent evaluation. Results: No significant correlation was found between the estimated age for males using Kvaal’s method and their chronological age (P>0.05). Multiple regression analysis revealed that tooth length, radicular pulp length, and root width at the mid-root were good predictors for age estimation in males. In females, tooth length, root width at the cementoenamel junction (CEJ), and root width at the mid-root were good predictors for age estimation. Conclusion: The regression formula proposed by Kvaal was found to be unsuitable for estimating age in males within our study population. The dimensions of the mean pulp chamber, except for tooth length, on CBCT scans were only suitable for age estimation in females; thus, a new regression model was developed for the study population.