The Gustafson method of dental age estimation uses six criteria. Which of the following is NOT one of Gustafson's original six criteria?
- A Attrition (wearing of the occlusal surface)
- B Crown-root ratio on digital panoramic radiograph ✓
- C Secondary dentine deposition
- D Cementum apposition
Correct answer: B. Crown-root ratio on digital panoramic radiograph
Explanation
Gustafson's six original criteria for dental age estimation (each scored 0–3) are: Attrition, Periodontosis (periodontal recession), Secondary dentine deposition, Cementum apposition, Root resorption, and Transparency of root dentine. Crown-root ratio on panoramic radiograph is a method used in other age estimation systems (notably for developing teeth using Demirjian's stages) and was not part of Gustafson's original 1950 histological method applied to extracted teeth.
Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.