Age Estimation in Skeletal Remains: Lessons from Head and Neck Bones
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17063/bjfs10(4)y2021566-584Keywords:
Forensic dentistry, age, sutures closure, mandibular angle, teeth, hyoidAbstract
Age estimation from bone remains is a challenge in forensic science, especially in adults. The bones of the head, neck and teeth are more resistant and are often the only pieces available for forensic expertise. This study aimed to critically review the methods available for estimating age from bone remains of the head and neck, as well as teeth in forensic practice. A literature review was performed, using the PubMed database for searches with the following descriptors: "cranial sutures", "teeth mineralization", "cervical vertebrae", "hyoid", "age estimation" and "human identification". Searches for articles were restricted to the last ten years. However, books, classic articles and theses were included, even if they were published longer ago. The literature review showed that the age of closure of the sutures should be used in association with another parameter due to the occurrence of frequent variations. The angle of the mandible (gonial angle) can offer important information to estimate age, but dental mineralization using imaging exams or histological techniques offers subsidies to estimate age more accurately. The bones of the neck can help to estimate age, but they should not be used alone. In conclusion, the teeth and bones of the head and neck can be used in addition to the analysis of other bones for age estimation. However, when they are the only pieces available, the degree of closure of the sutures, the gonial angle and the dental mineralization can offer sufficient subsidies to estimate the age, especially when analyzed together with imaging exams, histological techniques and in association with the bones of the neck.
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