Dental Age Estimation Using the London Atlas in a Southern Thai Population

Age estimation is a crucial component in the identification of individuals. The London Atlas is a radiographic method for dental age estimation, and it is non-invasive, easy to apply, and widely utilized. Previous studies confirmed the high accuracy of the London Atlas in Northern and Central Thai groups. However, this study aimed to evaluate its accuracy in a southern Thai population since genetic and environmental differences occur among populations. A total of 360 digital panoramic radiographs from Thai children aged between 7 and 15 years (180 males and 180 females) were analyzed. The sample was divided into nine age groups. Each group included 40 radiographs. Dental age was estimated by comparing the radiographs with the London Atlas. Differences between chronological and dental ages were assessed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. Intra- and inter-observer reliability scores were 0.839 and 0.816, respectively. The mean dental age estimated using the London Atlas (11.57 years) slightly exceeded the actual mean chronological age (11.52 years). However, the difference was not statistically significant in either sex (P > 0.05). The London Atlas method showed a minor overestimation of 0.01 years in males and 0.09 years in females. In conclusion, the London Atlas method demonstrated a high level of accuracy and is appropriate for dental age estimation in the southern Thai population.