Validity of Demirjian's method for dental age estimation in the pediatric population of Guayayquil

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Thalía Álvarez Cedeño
Dayana Moreno Paladines
Vilma Utria Vizhñay

Abstract

Dental age estimation is an essential tool in pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, and forensic odontology. Among the available methods, Demirjian’s approach, based on the development of the seven left mandibular teeth, is one of the most widely used worldwide. However, its validity may vary depending on the population, which justifies the need for local studies. The objective of this study was to evaluate the validity of Demirjian’s method in the pediatric population of Guayaquil. A quantitative, observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study was conducted using panoramic digital radiographs of patients aged 5 to 14 years who attended the Pediatric Dentistry Clinic of the University of Guayaquil. The dental age estimated through Demirjian’s method was compared with chronological age, applying descriptive analysis, normality testing, and Spearman’s correlation. The results showed a strong positive and significant correlation between both ages (rho = 0.99, p < 0.001), although a slight tendency to overestimation was observed in certain age groups. Data tabulation revealed an average overestimation, confirming that while the method is valid, it may overvalue age in specific cases. It is concluded that Demirjian’s method presents good validity as a tool for estimating dental age in children from Guayaquil; however, its adaptation to population-specific reference tables is recommended to increase precision.

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How to Cite
Álvarez Cedeño, T., Moreno Paladines, D., & Utria Vizhñay, V. (2025). Validity of Demirjian’s method for dental age estimation in the pediatric population of Guayayquil. RES NON VERBA Scientific Journal, 15(2), 150–159. https://doi.org/10.21855/resnonverba.v15i2.1106
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Artículos
Author Biographies

Thalía Álvarez Cedeño, Universidad de Guayaquil

Earned her degree in Dentistry from the University of Guayaquil in 2008. Completed two master’s degrees in 2025: one in Public Health from the State University of Milagro and another in Higher Education from the Latin University of Panama. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Education at the University of Santander. Faculty member and part of the academic management team in the Sub-Dean’s Office of the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Guayaquil.

Dayana Moreno Paladines, Universidad de Guayaquil

Posee su título de tercer nivel en odontología.

Vilma Utria Vizhñay, Universidad de Guayaquil

Posee su título de tercer nivel en Odontología.

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