Age estimation of mummies by dental attrition: Application of three-dimensional CT images

Background: Because of the rarity of mummies in Korea and the difficulty in obtaining samples from mummies, studies to determine the ages of mummies are uncommon in Korea. This study was performed to determine the ages of mummies using the information obtained by nondestructive methods to minimize damages to the mummies. Methods: Three mummies excavated between 2002 and 2004 were used. Three-dimensional reconstructed images of the total teeth were obtained by CT scanning. The age at death was determined according to the 'Age Estimation Table of Dental Attrition' as developed by Takei. Three teeth were extracted from each of three mummies and examined grossly and microscopically by serial sections using the Gustafson-Johanson method. Results: The ages at death of the three mummies estimated by the Takei method were 23.57 years (Yoon mummy), 51.01 years (Bong mummy), and 64.45 years (Black mummy). These results were similar to the ages determined by the Gustafson method. Conclusions: Age determination method using a CT scan and three-dimensional reconstruction may be a valuable method because it minimizes the damages to valuable mummies and it gives reliable data similar to that obtained by other standard methods.