Age Estimation using Mandibular Projective Ramus Height: A Retrospective Digita Orthopantomographic Study

Background: Mandibular projective ramus height is one of the accurate parameters in age estimation.Estimation of age by mandibular ramusheight using various digital softwares is one of the newest approach in forensic dentistry. The aim of the present study is to derive a new linear regression formula for estimating age of south Indian population using mandibular projective ramus height.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included OPG samples n=260 from 5 age groups between 30 to 79.9 years. Measurement of mandibular projective ramus height was done using Planmeca Romexis Viewer software and tabulated and exported to SPSS software for linear regression analysis.

Results: Mean mandibular projective ramus height value of males (28.7) is higher compared to females (27.3) in all age groups and there is also a significant decrease in mandibular projective ramus height in both gender as the age advances. The gender specific and general linear regression formula derived for estimation of age in the South Indian population.

Conclusion: Even though the current linear regression formula for estimating age carries 65% accuracy, further research with adequate sample size should be carried out across the hospitals in Chennai for more significant and region specific results.