What dental development indicators are used for age estimation in subadults?

• A. Dental caries patterns
• B. Root resorption rates
• C. Tooth eruption timing and crown formation stages using standardized growth curves.
• D. Tooth color variation

Answer: (C)

Subadult age estimation from teeth relies on dental development, which follows a predictable sequence linked to age. The most informative indicators are when teeth erupt into the mouth and how far their crowns have formed, known as crown formation stages. By assessing these stages and comparing them to standardized growth curves or reference charts, you can estimate a person’s age within a plausible range. This approach is favored because dental development progresses with relatively consistent timing across individuals, making it more reliable for age estimation than many other biological markers.

Patterns of dental caries depend on diet and hygiene and don’t reflect age in a consistent way. Root resorption rates can be influenced by trauma, orthodontic treatment, or pathology rather than age alone. Tooth color varies with staining, genetics, medications, and wear, which are not reliable indicators of age.