A forensic dentist is asked to estimate the age of an unknown decomposed body from dental examination alone. Which dental feature is the MOST reliable single indicator of age above 35 years in an adult?
- A Number of missing permanent teeth
- B Degree of secondary dentine deposition (reduction in pulp chamber size on dental radiograph) ✓
- C Presence of dental caries in molars
- D Colour of the crown enamel
Explanation
Gustafson's method (1950) for adult age estimation uses six dental criteria: attrition (crown wear), secondary dentine deposition (pulp chamber narrowing), cementum apposition, periodontal recession, root resorption, and root transparency. Of these, secondary dentine deposition (assessed radiologically as progressive reduction in pulp cavity size) is the most consistent age-related change above 35 years and correlates well with chronological age. Missing teeth, caries, and enamel colour are influenced by disease, diet, and hygiene rather than purely age.
Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.