Age estimation using tooth cementum annulations method by different types of microscope: A comparative study

Abstract

Introduction: Age is an essential factor in establishing the identity of a person. Age estimation through dental parameters can be of valuable assistance in human identification as teeth can survive in most conditions encountered at death and during decomposition. Tooth cementum annulations are one of the many methods for determination of an individual's age. Incremental lines in cementum are counted in this method. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the correlation between chronologic age and estimated age and to find the most accurate method of calculating cemental annulations using different types of microscopes (light microscope, phase contrast microscope, polarized, and stereomicroscope). Methodology: The extracted teeth were cleaned and polished. Block was prepared by embedding two third of each tooth root horizontally in self-cure acrylic. Using a hard tissue microtome (SP 1600) longitudinal sections of 100 μm thickness were made. The sections were cleaned in alcohol and were mounted on a glass slide. These sections were observed under different types of microscopes (light microscope, phase contrast microscope, polarized, and stereomicroscope) to count cemental annulations. Results: The relationship between chronological age and estimated age using light microscope, phase contrast and polarized microscope showed stronger correlation while stereo microscope showed a weaker correlation. Conclusion: The use of polarized microscope increases the accuracy and thus, can predict the near estimate of the age for all the age groups.