Age estimation of Iraqi children and young adults based on third molar development and its relation to chronological age

Abstract

The study aimed to estimate the age of Iraqi children and young adults based on the third molar development to establish Iraqi reference material for orthodontic and forensic purposes, and to investigate the correlation between the estimated and chronological age. A retrospective analysis of digital orthopantographs of 1515 patients of Iraqi origin, aged from 6 to 25 years was conducted, and the developmental status of the mandibular right third molar for each patient was evaluated using Demirjian et al.’s method. Statistical analysis was carried out using “Mann-Whitney U -test” between genders. The linear regression analysis was performed to obtain “regression formulas” for dental age calculation with chronologic age. No statistically significant differences were observed between Iraqi males and females at any age. The median of male and female age of initial calcification of the cuspal tips for mandibular third molars was 9 years, whereas 14 years was the median of age for both genders when the crown was completed. All mandibular right third molars have a complete root formation with apex closure at a median of male and female age 22 years. The use of Demirjian et al.’s method was appropriate as a reliable age indicator for Iraqi population. A strong correlation was observed between these stages and chronological age. Consequently, reference data have been established for mandibular third molar development in Iraqi population.