Age Estimation of a Skeleton: Using the Methodologies of Pubic Symphysis Categorization, Cranial Suture Closure and Dental Wear

Abstract

When you pass away, and eventually there is nothing left of you except for your bones, what will forensic anthropologists be able to tell the world about how you lived, and who you were when you were alive? Was your story long, or was it cut short by outside forces? Forensic anthropologists can give skeletons a human identity. This tactic may also be used to aid in the process of helping law enforcement to identifying missing persons. Age estimation is one contributing factor to a biological profile. Age estimation is a range of the youngest to oldest possible age of a person based on skeletal observations. These observations are made using multiple methods that categorize the condition of bone features into groups based on possible ages that closely match the condition of the skeleton. These methodologies include, but are not limited to, evaluation of the pubic symphysis, cranial sutures and dental wear. However, each method of age estimation is subject to inaccuracy. Due to this, multiple methods must be used in order to narrow down a possible age group. These issues, along with possible solutions, will be discussed.