Stature estimation using various odontometric parameters: A narrative review

Abstract

Aim: Indonesia is the most disaster-prone country in the world, which can cause many dead victims, therefore, the identification process becomes essential, but the difficulties increase when only the skulls, partial jaws, and teeth remain found in the body. Some researchers began to pay attention to estimating stature through teeth dimensions because teeth have high individual characteristics and are the most muscular body structures. This study aims to describe several studies and methods that have been used by researchers from outside Indonesia in estimating stature using odontometric parameters. Materials and Methods: This narrative literature review was conducted by reviewing several studies of stature estimation using odontometric parameters based on PubMed Central and indexed articles and documents published by authorities and boards. Some of the methods found and included in this study include parameters of maxillary permanent dentition, mandibular permanent dentition, all maxillary and mandibular permanent dentition except third molars, and also deciduous dentition. Result: From all parameters above, the easiest method and most applicable in Indonesia is the method using permanent mandibular dentition because it uses the Carrea’s index formula, so the measurement becomes easier and faster to get the desired result. Conclusion: The odontometric parameters used to estimate height vary greatly, although some still showed a low-moderate relationship to height. Carrea’s index is one of the easiest, cheapest, and most reliable and straightforward methods to estimate the height.