Age estimation using the Demirjian method in third molars on cone beam computed tomography images

The study aimed to estimate the chronologic age of individuals and whether they were aged under or over 18 years by using the Demirjian method on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. The developmental stages of the third molars in the maxilla and mandible of 445 individuals aged between 9 and 26 years were evaluated as eight stages from A to H according to the Demirjian method. The association of these eight stages with chronologic age according to the age of 18 years, which is accepted as the threshold value, and the distribution of the stages was statistically analyzed. There was no significant difference in the mean age at which developmental stages (A-H) were seen between the sexes (p > .05). Stage A was observed up to the age of 15 years in females and 14 years in males, and stage H was observed at the age of 16 at the earliest in both sexes. Stages A and B were not seen in individuals aged 18 years and over. The age of individuals and whether they are below or above 18 years can be estimated by evaluating the development of third molars according to the Demirjian method.