Development of Mandibular Third Molars in 18 Year Old North Indian Population

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to investigate development of third molars in 18 year old North Indian male population by means of CT scans and 3D software imaging. Methods: A retrospective analysis of CT scans of 50 patients aged 18 years at the time of their scan was conducted, and the developmental stages of the left third molars were evaluated using Demirjian's classification. Demirjian's classification system distinguished eight stages of crown and root development (Stages A-H). Results: The percentile distributions were recorded for each stage of development and variations for different stages were noted. The developmental and physiological changes of the tooth can be correlated to chronological age. Conclusion: The present investigation could provide reference data for third molar development in the North Indian population and maybe used in wider studies of tooth development and age prediction using dental radiographs for forensic and medico- legal purposes.