Correlation of pulp-to-tooth area ratio with age and gender using CBCT of maxillary central incisor and canine: A comparative study

Abstract

Introduction: Dental age estimation of living or deceased individuals through radiographic methods are popular, among which pulp-tooth ratio is a sensitive indicator. The aim of this study was to estimate and compare age based on the pulp-to-tooth area ratio (PTR) of maxillary canines and central incisors from sagittal, coronal, and three levels on axial section from CBCT data. Methods and Materials: Sixty adults of Indian origin (31 men and 29 women) aged between 20 and 65 years visiting the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology of our institution requiring CBCT of anterior maxilla for their diagnosis or treatment planning were included as study subjects. The sagittal, coronal, and axial images of maxillary central incisor and canine were imported to AutoCAD 2016 computer-aided drafting program. For each image, 30 and 10 points were marked on the tooth and pulp outlines, respectively, using the point tool on AutoCAD Toolbox. PTR was calculated and subjected to statistical analysis. Results: There was a declining trend in PTR with advancing age in maxillary central incisor in all sections and axial section at CEJ in canine. When the PTR values were compared, axial section at one-fourth, axial section at mid-root, sagittal and coronal sections for maxillary incisor showed significant differences between the age groups. There was no significant difference in PTR values between the genders. The best predictor for age was coronal and sagittal sections for central incisor, and sagittal section for maxillary canine. Maxillary central incisor yielded a better estimate with an SEE of 8.258 years than canine for age estimation. Conclusion: Results revealed a declining trend in PTR with advancing age in maxillary central incisor in all sections and axial section at CEJ in canine.