Aplicabilidade e confiabilidade do método de estimativa de idade por meio do tamanho da cavidade pulpar- revisão de literatura

Abstract

Human identification is fundamental to Forensic Dentistry and is of great importance for both living and deceased individuals. The deposition of secondary dentin in the pulp cavity over time causes its reduction, which constitutes a significant morphological predictor of dental age. The dimensions of the pulp cavity can be determined through imaging exams, where it is possible to perform various measurements and calculations to estimate tooth age. This literature review was carried out in an attempt to verify the applicability and reliability of this method of estimating dental age, based on tomographic images, seeking to explore and investigate different approaches in relation to the types of teeth used and different populations and ethnicities. The bibliographic search was carried out in the PubMed database, covering articles from 2006 to 2023, using the key words: “forensic dentistry’’, “computed tomography”, “dental age pulp”. The results of the studies included in this literature review allowed us to conclude that this method is promising, but subject to inaccuracies, which indicates the need for more studies, involving different populations to test the demand for developing specific equations, including larger samples of teeth. It is not yet possible to determine the best tooth to carry out these measurements, since there were great divergences in the studies investigated. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was presented, in most studies, as the exam of choice for taking measurements of the pulp cavity. Furthermore, the use of artificial intelligence and specific software can make calculations more accurate, reducing estimation errors. Investigating this tool further is essential to enhance its important role in estimating dental age.