Comparison of Cameriere's and Bedek's Methods for age Estimation in Mixed Dentition in the Population of Maharashtra

Abstract

Introduction: Age estimation is an integral part of Forensic Odontology. Numerous methods have been proposed to date, of which Cameriere's and Bedek's methods are two recently proposed radiographic methods of age estimation. The present study aims to evaluate the validity and reliability of Cameriere's method and Bedek's method of age estimation in the population of Maharashtra. Materials and methods: The present retrospective study utilized 100 orthopantomograms (OPGs) of children aged between 6 and 15 years. The radiographs were analyzed by Cameriere's open apex method and Bedek's method for age estimation using Image J Software. Results: There was an overestimation of age with a mean difference of 1.14 years in males and 1.04 years in females. There was a mean underestimation of age ranging from 0.745 to 1.060 years including all the models when using Bedek's method. There was a statistically non-significant difference (p>0.05) between the mean estimated and chronological age in all the models of Bedek's method except for the 2-teeth model in males. Conclusion: Both, Cameriere's as well as Bedek's methods are relatively non-invasive and simple to apply for age estimation in Forensic Odontology. The relatively newer Bedek's models for age estimation showed better results in terms of accuracy and reliability.