Evaluation Of Cementochronology As An Aging Method For Inexperienced Researchers

There are numerous different methods of determining the age of an adult human skeleton from the auricular surface or pubic symphysis of the pelvis, attrition of the human dental enamel, and degeneration of other syndesmosis. Age-at-death estimates from cementum annulation counts are one of the most accurate methods available. Cementochronology can provide an estimate for age-at-death despite pathological conditions that affect the bones and teeth; in some cases, where remains are incomplete, fragmented, or damaged post-mortem, a count of cementum annulations might be the only technique possible to obtain an age estimate. This method is of course not without its limitations. Despite its potential accuracy and precision, over the past 20 years, there has been much debate over whether this method should be used for human skeletons, particularly in a forensic context. Concerns are primarily focused on the lack of a standard protocol and validation studies thereof. This thesis will address the question of why counting cementum annulations is potentially so valuable as an age estimation tool and concerns as to whether a recently developed sectioning protocol will make this method more accessible.