Age and Gender Estimation Using Orthopantomogram In Chennai Population: A Retrospective Digital Study

Aim: To investigate age and gender based on gonial angle, bigonial width and ramus height using digital orthopantomograph (OPG). Materials and Methods: A sum of 100 OPG images was selected. The age of the individuals ranged between 14 and 35 years of both the gender of which males were 37 and females were 63. The selected OPG images were measured using IMAGE J measurement software tool. The probed radiographs were composed from a private dental institute in Chennai. Radiographs with any pathology, missing, deep caries, orthodontically managed teeth, magnification, and distortion were eliminated from the study. Statistical Analysis: The data were analysed by SPSS 10 for Windows (SPSS Inc., Chicago, USA) for Descriptive analysismean, median, standard deviation (SD), first quartile, third quartile (independent variables) angle of mandible, height of ramus of right (R) and left (L) sides. Pearson correlation was used to correlate age and gender (independent variables) measured for R and L side. Linear regression coefficient by regression equation was used to determine predictive value and multiple linear regression analysis was done by using fitted model equation to arrive at age and gender. Results: Increased bigonial width was found in males when compared to females and the difference was found to be statistically highly significant. A negligible positive correlation between age and bigonial width, gonial angle and ramus height which was found to be statistically not significant. Conclusion: This study highlights the dormant value of gonial angle, bigonial width and ramus height utilizing OPG as a device for age and gender estimation.