Age estimation through dental mineralization in Brazil in forensic dentistry

A literature review

Abstract

Forensic dentistry is a specialty that applies dental knowledge to legal and forensic contexts, playing a fundamental role in the identification of individuals, especially when traditional methods are not viable. One of the main tools used is age estimation through dental mineralization, as teeth exhibit predictable development patterns and high resistance to external damage. This study aims to review the main methods used to estimate chronological age based on dental mineralization, with emphasis on the methods of Nolla and Nicodemo applied in Brazil, while also addressing other approaches, such as those proposed by Demirjian, Willems, and Moorrees. The methodology consisted of a literature review based on scientific articles published between 1974 and 2023, retrieved from databases such as SciELO, PubMed, Google Scholar, and CAPES Journals. The selected studies addressed the relationship between age and mineralization, panoramic radiography, human identification, and population variability. The results demonstrated that the analyzed methods are effective, with minor differences among them, and showed higher accuracy during childhood and adolescence. Factors such as genetics, sex, ethnicity, and environmental conditions may influence the rate of mineralization, limiting the universal application of these methods. The conclusion indicates that the choice of the most appropriate method depends on the population profile, the individual’s age group, and the quality of the available radiographic images. Considering these variables is essential to ensure the reliability of forensic results.