Question

The Gustafson Method is used to calculate the age of human beings":

• A. Above 21 years
• B. Upto 10 years
• C. Foetus in womb
• D. Between 10-20 years

Hint:

Remember, methods for age estimation are different for developing individuals versus adults. \textbf{Developmental} methods (tooth eruption, bone growth) are for the young. \textbf{Degenerative} methods (tooth wear, arthritis), like Gustafson's, are for adults.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand the Gustafson Method. Gustafson's method is a technique used in forensic odontology to estimate the age of an adult individual.

Step 2: Identify the basis of the method. The method relies on observing age-related degenerative changes in the teeth. It evaluates six factors:

Attrition (wear on the biting surfaces).
Periodontosis (gum line recession).
Secondary dentin formation.
Cementum apposition at the root.
Root resorption.
Transparency of the root.

Step 3: Determine the applicable age range. These changes are gradual and become more pronounced in adulthood. The method is specifically designed for and most accurate in adults, typically those above 21 years of age, after all permanent teeth have erupted and started to undergo wear and other age-related processes. It is not used for children, adolescents, or fetuses, for whom age estimation is done by observing developmental milestones like tooth eruption and bone fusion.