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Reconstruction of Root Morphology in Skeletonized Remains with Postmortem Dental Loss

NCJ Number
134456
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 37 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1992) Pages: 176-184
Author(s)
B C Smith
Date Published
1992
Length
9 pages
Annotation
A reversible technique is presented in which the root morphology of missing teeth in skeletonized human remains can be reconstructed for the purpose of radiographic comparison and postmortem identification.
Abstract
In the technique, which is based on pilot studies with skeletonized mandibles of archival remains, the alveolar socket walls are sealed with a coat of cyanoacrylate cement and injected with a mixture of vinyl polysiloxane and barium sulfate. Radiographs are produced with the radiopaque mixture in place, which highlights the antemortem morphology of the roots. Subsequently, the impression material is removed, resulting in no gross alteration of the evidence. Radiographs made with this technique, as well as the impressions, can be stored for later use at a trial or pending the discovery of antemortem dental evidence. Items needed to use the technique are readily transportable, commercially available, and relatively inexpensive. Technical aspects of the procedure are easily within the capabilities of the odontologist and can be performed in a laboratory, operatory, or mortuary environment. Although some caution should be exercised when radiographic comparisons are conducted with reconstructed dental evidence, the author suggests that each case be evaluated independently. He also points out that the technique's selective use will allow the reconstruction and documentation of valuable dental evidence that might otherwise be unavailable for evaluation. 9 references and 3 figures (Author abstract modified)

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