radiological study of the deciduous teeth mineralization in the Egyptian fetus and its role in fetal age determination

ABSTRACT

This work was carried out on 60 Egyptian fetuses with gestational ages ranging from 4 to 9 months [10 fetuses in each group]. The ages of the fetuses were determined on the basis of menstrual history, external characteristics and ossific centers development. Radiological pictures were taken for the lower jaws of all the specimens and interpretation of mineralization of DT was done. Mineralization was first detected at gestational age of 5 months in the incisor teeth. By the age of 6 months, first DM showed evidence of mineralization while, the canines and the second DM exhibited IM at 7 months. IM of the first PM became evident in full term infants. The results of this study can be used as a guide for fetal age estimation from the fifth IU month up to full term