Estimation of Age from the Physiological Changes of Teeth in Adults between 25 - 60 Years- An Autopsy Study

This study was done to compare the estimated age from physiological changes in teeth (Gustafson method) with the actual age of deceased person and to note the difference between them and also to know the influence of various exogenous and endogenous factors on them. In 40 cases where the proof of age is available, first maxillary premolars were studied for 6 factors- attrition, periodontal disease, secondary dentine deposition, cementum apposition, root resorption. Each factor was allotted a score of 0- 3 depending upon degree of changes in the tooth. Age calculated by deriving the regression formula for the total score. Mean calculated age when all the physiological factors taken together had a deviation of about ±2.86 years. Physiological factors had no significant correlation with the sex and diet of the individual. When a single factor is used for age estimation root translucency gave the least deviation, i.e. ±5.17 years.