What is Gustafson’s Method?

The evaluation of ground sections of teeth serves as the foundation for Gustafson’s method for age estimation from teeth. In the ground section, six age-related parameters are assessed, and their changes are contrasted using an age versus regression curve of age. By observing the degenerative changes in the teeth, it is a useful approach for determining an individual’s age after 25 years; it is not utilised on living people. Only attrition can be detected in living people, making it the least dependable type of information.

• The various criteria taken into consideration are:
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1. Attrition: Wear and tear seen over the occlusal surface.

2. Paradentosis: The gum margins become retracted and there is loosening of teeth.

3. Secondary dentin: Deposition of dentin (secondarily) within the pulp cavity.

4. Root resorption: Root resorption due to ageing and tooth may fall off at varying ages.

5. Transparency of root: It is the transparency of the dentin at the root level.

6. Cementum apposition: Apposition of cementum at and around the root of the teeth.

• The most accurate predictor of age among the aforementioned factors is the transparency of the root. Additionally, the incremental lines on the cross section of the teeth are also utilised to determine an individual’s age.

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