Assessment of Dental Age Using Demirjian's Method in Children Aged 5–18 Years in Chhattisgarh: A Panoramic Radiographic Study

Abstract Background: Dental age estimation is an essential tool in pediatric dentistry, forensic odontology, and legal proceedings. Demirjian’s method, although widely accepted, exhibits varying accuracy across populations. This study aimed to evaluate its applicability in children from Chhattisgarh, India. Aim: To assess the dental age of children aged 5–18 years in Chhattisgarh using Demirjian’s method and compare it with chronological age to determine its accuracy and applicability. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 panoramic radiographs collected from children aged 5–18 years at a dental college in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh. Dental age was estimated using Demirjian’s 8-stage method on seven left mandibular teeth. Estimated dental age (EDA) was compared with chronological age (CA) using paired t-tests and regression analysis. Cohen’s kappa was applied for intra- and inter-examiner reliability. Results: Demirjian’s method significantly overestimated dental age compared to chronological age in both Genders (mean overestimation: 0.58 years). The correlation between DA and CA was strong (r = 0.83, p < 0.001). The highest accuracy was noted in the 9–14 years group. Reliability tests showed excellent agreement (κ > 0.8). Conclusion: Although Demirjian’s method is reproducible, it consistently overestimates dental age in Chhattisgarh children. Region-specific standards or correction factors are recommended for improved forensic accuracy.