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Table 1 Description of the criteria for recording root development stages of the mandibular third molar

From: Determination of age reference standards based on mandibular third molar root development in a Ugandan population aged 10–22 years

Demirjian stages of calcification

Haavikko stages of calcification

Solari stages of calcification

Moorrees stages of calcification

Stage terminology

Description of stage according to image

D

Ri

D

Ri

Root initial/crown complete

Some root visible but less than half crown height

E

R1/4

E

Rcl

Cleft

Beginning of root furcation visible as a dot or line

R1/4

Root one-quarter

Clear semilunar furcation visible

F

R1/2

F

R1/2

Root one-half

Root bifurcation more extensive. Root length equal to crown height. Distal root canal walls diverge with sharp edges

R3/4

F1

R3/4

Root three-quarters

Root length considerably more than crown height and root canal walls diverge

G

Rc

G

Rc

Root complete

Walls of the distal root canal are parallel and full length with rounded/blunt edges

G1

A1/2

Apex half closed

Apex of distal root partially open. Periodontal ligament slightly wider at distal apex

H

Ac

H

Ac

Apex closed

Distal apex appears closed with uniform periodontal ligament width

  1. Adapted from Liversidge and Marsden (2010)