Age estimation of 8- to 25-year-olds based on third molar calcification using the Demirjian method in an Indonesian population

Abstract

Age estimation of adolescents and young adults is important both legally and medicolegally. During this age period, only the third molars are still in development. We aimed to determine the correlation between chronological age and third molar development in an Indonesian population using the Demirjian method. The sample consisted of 407 panoramic radiographics obtained from Indonesians aged between 8 and 25 years. Statistical analysis used a Pearson correlation test, and regression analysis was performed to obtain the regression formula to calculate the age estimation. The result of Pearson correlation test showed a strong correlation (p>0.75) between each third molar and age (p < 0.05). Regression correlations obtained included the sum model of four third molars, three third molars, two third molars, and one third molar. There was a very strong correlation between chronological age and third molar development in the Indonesian population.