Age Estimation from Teeth with Critical Analysis of Gustafson’s Method

Abstract

In this era of evidence based medicine much of expertise in field of Forensic Odontology is drawn  from basic research and experience. Teeth are better preserved than other material, so their use for identification of an individual's age at death is very important .Ever since its inception Gustafson’s method  for determination of age from permanent teeth is considered gold standard even though many workers  have dealt with the topic extensively, and critically determined the error factors involved. The present  study reveals that the central incisor is the best age indicator with a standard error of ±6.35 years, and in  combination of canine and first molar gives age estimation within an error of ±5.35 years. The first molar  alone being the first to erupt in permanent series is found less useful age indicator (error±8.15 years). In  contradiction to many researchers and Gustafson himself, this study points that attrition constitutes the  most reliable parameter.