Gustafson Method (1950)
Definition
Adult age estimation using six histological and morphological criteria (Attrition, Periodontosis, Secondary dentine, Cementum apposition, Root resorption, Transparency of root), each scored 0 to 3, summed and run through a regression formula.
- Published
- 1950
- Criteria count
- Six histological and morphological criteria
- Scoring
- Each criterion scored 0 to 3
- Output
- Summed score run through a regression formula
Common questions
How does the 0 to 3 scoring scale work in practice?+
Each of the six criteria, such as attrition or root transparency, is examined and assigned a score from 0 (no change) to 3 (extensive change) based on defined visual and histological reference standards, then the six scores are summed into a total that is entered into the regression equation.
Why does root transparency require a sectioned tooth rather than visual inspection?+
Root transparency is assessed by holding a thin ground section of the root up to light and measuring how far the translucent zone extends from the apex, a change not visible on an intact, unsectioned tooth, which makes this criterion the most destructive step in the method.
Related terms
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- Cameriere Method (2007)
- Adult age estimation using the pulp-to-tooth area ratio measured on periapical radiographs of canines.
- Canine
- Single-cusped tooth for tearing and gripping. One per quadrant. Often the last anterior tooth to be lost in old age.
- Cheiloscopy
- Study of lip prints (Greek cheilos, lip; skopein, to examine). The furrow system on human lips was first described by anthropologist R....
- Deciduous Dentition
- The first set of 20 teeth, also called primary or milk teeth, that erupt from approximately six months and are progressively replaced...
- Demirjian Method (1973)
- Childhood age estimation using radiographic stage-scoring (A to H, eight stages) of the seven permanent left mandibular teeth.
- Dental Formula
- Per-quadrant notation of tooth types in the order Incisors.Canines.Premolars.Molars. Human deciduous 2.1.0.2, permanent 2.1.2.3.
- Incisor
- Chisel-shaped anterior tooth for cutting. Two per quadrant (central and lateral) in both dentitions.
- Molar
- Multi-cusped posterior tooth for grinding. Two per quadrant deciduous, three per quadrant permanent (third molar is the wisdom tooth).
- Nolla Method (1960)
- Ten-stage radiographic scoring of tooth calcification used for paediatric age estimation.
- Permanent Dentition
- Second set of 32 teeth. First permanent molar erupts at 6 years, third molar (wisdom) at 17 to 25 years. Dental formula...
- Premolar (Bicuspid)
- Two-cusped tooth for grinding and tearing. Two per quadrant in permanent dentition only; absent in deciduous.