Accuracy of a Population-Specific Model as Compared to Cameriere's Italian, Indian-Specific Model for Dental Age Estimation among Children in Dakshina Kannada, India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: In India, the value of age estimation is priceless as there is a significant increase in the involvement of minors in various crimes. There is a significant rise in the involvement of minors in various crimes. An accurate Indian-specific age estimation model becomes necessary to deliver the right justice in such scenarios. Objectives: To assess the accuracy of Cameriere's Italian model, Indian-specific and population-specific models for estimation of dental age among the children in Dakshina Kanada. Methodology: A total of 200 digital OPGs (100 males, 100 females) were analyzed using Cameriere's Italian and Indian-specific models for estimation of dental age based on the normalized open apices method. A model specific to the population was derived, and the accuracy of all three models was compared. Result: There was significant underestimation in Cameriere's Italian model and Indian-specific model with a mean difference of 2.05 and 2.95 years, respectively, whereas with the population-specific model, the mean difference was 1.02 years. The mean squared error with Cameriere's model was 2.73 years, and with Indian-specific model was 3.13 years, and the least with the population-specific pilot model of 1.79 years. Conclusion: Population-specific model is more accurate than Cameriere's Italian and Indian-specific models for the Dakshina Kannada children.