Comparative evaluation of age estimation by nolla’s method and chronological age of 6-13 years old children – A cross sectional analytical study

Background: In recent years forensic odontology has gained a lot of importance in age estimation of an individual. Developing teeth are used to estimate age in number of disciplines using various techniques of age estimation. Aim: To compare chronological age with age estimated by Nolla’s method in children of 6-13 years. Materials and Methods: Digital orthopantomogram of 100 children (50 males and 50 females) visiting Sinhgad Dental College and Hospital, Pune in the age group of 6-13 years were selected. Calcification stages of mandibular left and right canine were assessed and graded according to Nolla’s calcification stages for determination of dental age and compared with the chronological age.Paired ‘t’ test and Pearson’s correlation test was used for statistical analysis. Result: There was astrong positive correlation found between age estimation by Nolla’s method and chronological age on left as well as right mandibular canine. Conclusion: Nolla’s method is simple and reliable method in estimating dental age. Such studies should be carried out on larger sample size and variable age groups to generalize the result.